Fracture of the radius bone

A fracture of the radius bone is one of the most common orthopedic injuries, especially in the elderly and physically active people. For a fracture of the radius bone occurs most often as a result of a fall on an upright arm, which leads to damage to the bones in the wrist area. This type of injury can occur during everyday activities, as well as during sports such as cycling or rollerblading. Although a radius bone fracture can usually be treated effectively, it is crucial to take appropriate action quickly to avoid complications and long-term problems with hand mobility.

Fracture of the radius bone - types

The radius bone is one of the two bones in the forearm that allow the hand to bend, straighten and rotate. A fracture of this bone most often occurs in the wrist area, where the bone is most vulnerable. This injury can take various forms - From a simple fracture to a complex multifracture fracture, which requires surgical intervention. Depending on the mechanism of injury, radius bone fracture is divided into several types:

• Colles' fracture - most common when the hand is bent backward in a fall;
• Smith's fracture - Less common when the hand is bent forward;
• multifracture fracture - A fracture in which the radius bone breaks into several parts, requiring advanced treatment.

Symptoms of radius bone fracture

Symptoms of a fracture of the radius bone are usually quite characteristic, which allows you to quickly identify this type of injury:

• pain in the wrist or forearm area - Often sharp and aggravating when trying to move;
• swelling and redness - The swelling appears within minutes or hours after the injury;
• wrist deformity - In the case of more serious fractures, the bone may be displaced, which is visible as a deformation of the hand;
• difficulty moving the wrist or fingers - Limited mobility of the hand is one of the first symptoms of a fracture.

If such symptoms occur, it is necessary to visit an orthopedic doctor as soon as possible. Diagnosis most often includes taking an X-ray, which allows you to accurately locate the fracture and assess its size.

Treatment of radius bone fracture

A fracture of the radius bone can be treated in several ways, depending on the severity of the damage. For simple fractures that do not require surgery, conservative treatment is used, such as:

• immobilization in a plaster or splint - This is the most common method of treatment, especially when the fracture is simple and there has been no displacement of bone fragments;
• manual treatments - In some cases, if the bone is minimally displaced, the doctor may use repositioning - that is, manually setting the bone in its place before placing a cast.

In more serious cases, such as a multifracture fracture or a fracture with displacement, surgery may be necessary. This treatment involves stabilizing the bone using metal plates, screws or wires to hold the bone in position while it heals. Once the healing process is complete, a key part of recovery is hand rehabilitation after a radius bone fracture, which helps restore full function to the limb.

Rehabilitation after radius bone fracture

Hand rehabilitation after a fracture of the radius bone is an extremely important step in the process of returning to full function. A fracture can lead to muscle weakness, reduced wrist mobility and reduced hand function. Without proper rehabilitation, there is a risk that the hand will not regain full function, which can lead to chronic problems. Main goals of rehabilitation:

• restoration of mobility - The exercises are designed to gradually regain range of motion in the wrist and forearm;
• muscle strengthening - After a long immobilization of the hand, the muscles become weak. Special strength exercises help strengthen the muscles and prevent atrophy;
• improvement of motor coordination - proprioceptive exercises help improve the ability to control hand movements;
• minimize pain and swelling - Physical therapy treatments, such as laser therapy, ultrasound or cryotherapy, can accelerate tissue regeneration.

It is important that rehabilitation is carried out by a qualified physiotherapist who will select an appropriate exercise program Depending on the severity of the injury.

Pain in the hand after a fracture of the radius bone - what to do?

Pain in the hand after a fracture of the radius bone may persist for several weeks after removal of the cast or completion of surgical treatment. This is a normal symptom, resulting from the healing process and the gradual return to full function. To relieve the pain, wrist cooling is recommended, light stretching and regular exercise recommended by a physiotherapist. In some cases, when the pain is extremely persistent, The doctor may prescribe painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs. However, it is extremely important that pain does not stop the patient from participating in rehabilitation, as avoiding exercise can lead to movement limitations.

Wrist rehabilitation after radius bone fracture

The wrist is a very mobile and delicate joint, so the requires precise therapy. The wrist rehabilitation process includes:

• stretching - Gentle stretching of the wrist joint helps restore full range of motion;
• strengthening exercises - The goal is to strengthen the muscles around the wrist, which are responsible for stabilization and control of movement;
• manual therapy - A physical therapist can use joint and tissue mobilization techniques to improve flexibility and reduce stiffness.

Radial bone of the hand fracture vs. other injuries

Although a fracture of the radius bone is one of the most common injuries to the hand, There are other types of damage that can have similar symptoms, but require different treatment. Such injuries include a fracture of the radius bone or a fracture of the humerus. It is important that any injury is properly diagnosed by a specialist who will recommend the appropriate treatment.

Summary

A fracture of the radius bone is a serious injury that can significantly affect daily functioning. A key element in returning to full function is prompt diagnosis, proper treatment and comprehensive rehabilitation. To restore full function to the hand, Comprehensive rehabilitation is required, which includes various forms of therapysuch as hand therapy As well as specialized supportive treatments, such as physical therapy. Properly conducted physical rehabilitation allows for a full recovery and prevents complications that can occur as a result of neglecting the treatment process.