What is a Physeal fracture?
It is a combination of a horizontal fracture line through the physis and a vertical fracture line which runs from the growth plate through the epiphysis to the articular surface. Displaced injuries may result in a physeal bar, leading to growth disturbance and joint incongruity, leading to arthritis.
How long does a fracture of the distal radius take to heal?
Most distal radius fractures take 3 months or so to heal before you are able to return to all activities, and full recovery from these injuries can take up to 1 year.
Can a broken wrist heal without surgery?
A lot of wrist fractures can be treated effectively without any form of surgery. If there are bone fragments, these are replaced back into their original position. The wrist (or hand or finger) is placed into a supportive cast or specially fabricated splint for stability during the healing process.
Is a distal radius fracture a broken wrist?
Distal Radius Fracture (Broken Wrist) Definition When your radius breaks near your wrist, it’s referred to as a distal radius fracture. The break typically occurs when you fall on a flexed or outstretched hand. It could also occur in: A fall on an outstretched upper extremity (arm)
When should I start strengthening after a distal radius fracture?
4-8 weeks post injury The patient can decrease use of the wrist splint as they feel comfortable. Stretches are commenced to further improve movement. Light strengthening exercises are commenced to improve grip strength and function. These are introduced in a slow and controlled way.
What is the best exercise for a broken wrist?
Intrinsic flexion
- Rest the hand with the affected wrist on a table and bend the large joints where your fingers connect to your hand. Keep your thumb and the other joints in your fingers straight.
- Slowly straighten your fingers.
- Move back to your starting position, with your hand bent.
- Repeat 8 to 12 times.
What are the treatment options for a distal radius fracture?
If the distal radius fracture is in a good position, a splint or cast is applied. It often serves as a final treatment until the bone heals. Usually a cast will remain on for up to six weeks. Then you will be given a removable wrist splint to wear for comfort and support.
What is the role of Physiotherapy in the treatment of Distal fractures?
Physiotherapy of fractures of the distal radius is a concomitant treatment, not only after-care, of conservative and operative fracture therapy. Its aim is to avoid muscular atrophy and contraction and to improve circulation.
How long does it take for a distal radius fracture to heal?
If the distal radius fracture is in a good position, a splint or cast is applied. It often serves as a final treatment until the bone heals. Usually a cast will remain on for up to six weeks.
What causes distal radial physeal fracture?
Distal radial physeal fractures are uncommon in children younger than five years. The most common mechanism of injury is a fall on an outstretched hand (Figure 1). Extension of the wrist at the time of injury causes the distal fragment to be displaced dorsally (posteriorly).