
2016/04/07 Home Education and advice
Wrist fractures are the most common type of fracture of the upper limb across all age groups. The wrist is composed of many bones including the radius, the ulna and the carpal bones. As a result, a fracture can affect one or more of these bones. The most prevalent damage involves a fracture of the radius with distal displacement on the dorsal side, commonly known as a Colles’ fracture.
Groups most affected by Colles’ fractures1
Signs and symptoms2
Numerous structures are located in the wrist region, including several tendons, ligaments and nerves. Thus, these structures can also be affected and create complications. Depending on the severity of the fracture and bone displacement, immobilization with or without surgical intervention may be necessary.
Most common potential complications3:
Physiotherapy interventions5
Reduction of pain and edema | Increase in the range of motion of the wrist |
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Strengthening of the wrist | Return to normal functions |
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Scientific studies demonstrate that early intervention by a physiotherapist following the healing of a fracture is very effective and allows for a faster return to normal functions while preventing complications.4
1. Goldfarb CA, Yin Y, Gilula LA, Fisher AJ, Boyer MI. Wrist fractures: what the clinician wants to know. Radiology. 2001;219(1):11-28.
2. Brogren E, Hofer M, Petranek M, Dahlin LB, Atroshi I. Fractures of the distal radius in women aged 50 to 75 years: natural course of patient-reported outcome, wrist motion and grip strength between 1 year and 2–4 years after fracture. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume). 2011;36(7):568-76.
3. Cooney WP, Doybins JH, Linscheid RL. Complications of Colles’ Fracture. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. 1980;62(4):613-617.
4. Watt CF, Taylor NF, Baskus K. Do Colles’ fracture patients benefit from routine referral to physiotherapy following cast removal? Arch Orthop Trauma Surg. 2000;120:413-415.
5. Bruder AM, Taylor NF, Dodd KJ, Shields N. Physiotherapy intervention practice patterns used in rehabilitation after distal radial fracture. Physiotherapy. 2013;99(3):233-40.
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