As you experience pain and limited mobility in your wrist, you may suspect a fracture that can cause an unpredicitible car accident in Texas. A fractured wrist often results from falling onto an outstretched hand. The intense pain, tenderness, swelling, and bruising you notice indicate potential bone injury. If untreated, ongoing pain and loss of function will persist and healing will be delayed. Recognizing the signs helps you seek prompt medical care. Initial treatment involves immobilizing the wrist to allow proper healing. Under a doctor’s care, steps can be taken to realign the bones and ensure proper fusion. While recovery takes time, a fractured wrist usually heals well if given proper medical attention. Acting quickly when symptoms arise leads to the best outcome.
Common Causes of Wrist Fractures
Wrist fractures are unfortunately very common injuries. Understanding the most common causes can help you take precautions and protect your wrists.
- Falls - Falling and trying to catch yourself with an outstretched hand is the number one cause of wrist fractures. This often happens when walking on slippery surfaces or losing one's balance. Use handrails when available and wear shoes with good traction to avoid falls.
- Sports injuries - Certain sports like snowboarding, rollerblading, gymnastics, and contact sports have a higher risk of wrist fractures. Wear protective gear like wrist guards to help prevent injury. Proper conditioning and technique can also reduce risk.
- Motor vehicle accidents - Car accidents frequently cause wrist fractures when the hands hit the dashboard or window. Wearing a seatbelt and keeping hands away from hard surfaces can help minimize injury.
- Osteoporosis - Weak, brittle bones from osteoporosis are much more prone to fractures from minor impacts and falls. Getting adequate calcium and vitamin D can help strengthen bones. Bone density screening tests can diagnose osteoporosis.
- Direct blows - A direct blow to the wrist, such as from a sports impact, fight, or accident, can lead to a fracture. Protecting the wrists during activities can reduce this risk. Proper treatment of prior injuries is also important.
Being aware of the common causes of wrist fractures allows you to take preventative measures. However, even with precautions, wrist fractures can still occur unexpectedly. Seeking prompt medical treatment is key to proper healing.
Signs Your Wrist May Be Broken After an Accident
After an injury, determining if your wrist is broken can be challenging. There are several signs that may indicate a fracture:
- Swelling
Swelling around the wrist joint or hand is common with a break. This is caused by bleeding under the skin from the fractured bone. The swelling may be mild or very pronounced depending on the severity of the fracture.
- Bruising
Bruising often accompanies swelling. The skin around the wrist and hand may show black-and-blue discoloration. Bruising may also spread up the forearm as blood pools under the skin.
- Pain
Fractures are very painful. The pain may be isolated to the site of the break or radiate up and down the arm. Attempting to move or rotate the wrist increases the pain.
- Deformity
The shape of the wrist may look abnormal if the bones are significantly out of alignment. There may be a "kink" or bend at the fracture site.
- Weakness
It may be difficult or impossible to move the wrist normally. Attempting to grip objects with the hand may also be impaired depending on the location of the fracture.
- Numbness/tingling
Nerve compression or injury from the fractured bones can cause decreased sensation, numbness, or tingling in the hand, fingers or forearm.
- Audible snap or pop
A distinct cracking sound during the initial injury suggests bones breaking.
If these signs are present after an injury to your wrist, it is important to promptly seek medical evaluation. An X-ray can confirm if a fracture is present and determine the proper treatment. Ignoring the symptoms may result in improper healing and long-term complications.
Diagnosing a Fractured Wrist
A fractured wrist is often caused by falling on an outstretched hand. However, the symptoms can sometimes be subtle, making a fracture hard to diagnose on your own. Below are some key signs that point to a potential wrist fracture.
- Pain and Swelling - You will likely experience pain, tenderness, bruising, and swelling around the wrist and hand area after an injury. This is due to damaged tissue, blood vessels, and inflammation. The degree of pain can vary depending on the severity and location of the fracture.
- Deformity or Change in Shape - There may be an obvious deformity or change in the shape of the wrist if the fracture displaces the bones. The wrist may appear crooked or bent at an odd angle. Compare it to your uninjured wrist.
- Limited Range of Motion - You will probably have difficulty moving your wrist and hand normally. Any attempt to move or turn your wrist is likely to cause significant pain. This occurs because the fractured bones impede normal joint mobility.
- Numbness or Tingling - You may feel numbness, tingling, or weakness in your hand, fingers, or thumb as a result of pressure on or damage to nerves in the area of the fracture. This numbness often affects just the thumb and index finger.
- Audible Snap or Grating - In some cases, you may have heard or felt a snap or pop when the initial injury occurred. And you may hear or feel a grating sensation when trying to move your wrist if the bone fragments are rubbing against each other.
- Inability to Use - A fractured wrist usually makes it very difficult to use your hand and wrist normally for grasping or pinching objects, lifting, gripping, or performing fine motor tasks. Any attempt to do so will likely cause significant pain.
If you have any of these symptoms after a wrist injury, you should see a doctor right away. An x-ray will be done to evaluate for a fracture and determine the severity. Prompt medical treatment is important for proper healing.
Treatment Options for a Fractured Wrist
If you suspect you have fractured your wrist, it is crucial to seek prompt medical attention. There are several treatment options available depending on the severity and location of the fracture.
- Immobilization
One of the first steps will likely involve immobilizing the injured wrist to prevent further damage and allow healing. Your doctor may apply a splint or cast to keep the wrist stable and limit movement. For minor stable fractures, immobilization in a cast or splint for 4-6 weeks is often sufficient.
- Surgery
If the fracture is unstable or misaligned, surgery may be recommended. This can involve:
- Open reduction and internal fixation - Realigning the bones and holding them in place with plates, screws, pins or rods. This helps ensure proper healing.
- External fixation - Inserting pins into the bone above and below the fracture site and stabilizing the arm using an external frame.
- Bone graft - If bone is missing, a bone graft from another part of your body may be used.
- Physical Therapy
Once the bone begins to heal, physical therapy will help regain flexibility and strength. Your therapist can recommend specific exercises and stretches. This rehabilitation is vital for full recovery of wrist movement and function.
- Pain Management
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories and pain relievers can help manage discomfort. Ice packs may also provide relief. If pain persists, prescription medication or targeted injections could be options.
- Casting and Splinting
A plaster or fiberglass cast may be applied for several weeks until the bones have fused sufficiently. A removable splint may then be used to provide added protection while healing continues.
The exact treatment will depend on factors like your age, health status, occupation, and degree of injury. Listen to your doctor's recommendations and follow all post-procedure instructions carefully. With proper treatment, most wrist fractures heal fully within 6-8 weeks.
Recovering From a Wrist Fracture
After sustaining a fracture in the wrist, you will need to take steps to properly heal and regain strength and mobility in the affected area. The recovery process requires patience, but being proactive can help optimize outcomes.
- Immobilize and rest the wrist. Your doctor will likely recommend wearing a splint or cast to keep the wrist stable and limit movement during the initial healing phase, which typically lasts 6 to 8 weeks. Avoid using the wrist as much as possible during this period.
- Begin rehabilitation. Once the cast comes off, you will start rehabilitation exercises and physical therapy to improve flexibility and strength. Your doctor or therapist will provide a tailored program, but common exercises include gently moving and stretching the wrist, hand, and fingers, lifting light weights, and using putty or balls to improve grip strength.
- Manage pain and swelling. Icing, over-the-counter medications, compression, and elevation can help reduce discomfort and inflammation. Your doctor may also recommend specific pain medications. Staying active while respecting your limits aids recovery.
- Protect the wrist from re-injury. Avoid contact sports, repetitive motions like typing, and lifting heavy objects until the fracture has fully healed. Wear a brace during activities if recommended. Proper alignment and technique are crucial when returning to sports or strenuous tasks.
- Be patient through setbacks. Recovery is not linear, so occasional pain, stiffness and weakness are normal even months later. Try not to overdo activities too quickly. Follow up regularly with your treatment team and speak up about ongoing issues.
With dedication to rehabilitation exercises, sufficient rest periods and avoiding re-injury, you can expect your wrist fracture to heal fully within 3 to 6 months. However, each fracture is unique, so maintain realistic expectations and stay positive through frustration. Communicate openly with your care providers, and trust your body's resilience. Full recovery takes time and commitment, but you will regain strength and mobility by following the proper recovery process.
Complications Associated With Wrist Fractures
A fractured wrist often heals well with proper treatment. However, there are potential complications to be aware of:
- Malunion - The bones may heal in a misaligned position. This can limit wrist motion and function. Additional surgery may be needed to re-break and reset the bones.
- Arthritis - Post-traumatic arthritis is common after a wrist fracture. The cartilage can become damaged, leading to pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility over time. Non-surgical treatments include rest, splinting, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medication, and injections.
- Nerve damage - The nerves in the wrist may become stretched or cut during the original injury or surgery. Symptoms are numbness, tingling, weakness, and impaired sensation in the hand. This often improves over several months but may be permanent.
- Complex Regional Pain Syndrome - This chronic condition causes intense pain, swelling, stiffness, skin changes, and hypersensitivity that is disproportionate to the initial injury. The exact cause is unknown. Treatment involves medication, therapy, and sometimes nerve blocks.
- Delayed healing - In some cases, the fracture fails to heal properly. This is more common with unstable or displaced fractures. Additional surgery with bone grafting may be necessary.
- Vascular necrosis - The blood supply to bone tissue can be disrupted, causing the bone to die. This is rare but may happen with scaphoid fractures. Surgery is usually needed to remove the dead bone.
To reduce potential complications, closely follow your doctor's instructions on immobilization, rehabilitation, and activity restrictions after your wrist fracture and surgery. Notify your physician promptly if you have concerns about healing or experience new or worsening symptoms. With proper treatment, most people regain good wrist function after a fracture.
Exercises and Physical Therapy for a Healing Wrist
If you have fractured your wrist, certain exercises and physical therapy can aid in healing and regaining strength and mobility. Under the guidance of your doctor or physical therapist, focus on the following:
- Range of motion exercises - Gentle movements of the wrist and fingers are important to prevent stiffness. Your doctor may have you remove your cast or splint periodically to do exercises like rotating your wrist, bending it up and down, and opening and closing your hand.
- Stretching - Stretches can help improve flexibility. For example, use your uninjured hand to gently stretch your injured wrist back and hold for 10 seconds. Or, interlace your fingers and straighten arms in front to stretch.
- Strengthening - Once healing allows, you may start strength training. Your therapist may have you use stretchy bands or small weights to help rebuild muscles. Start very gradually.
- Massage - Massaging the tissues around the fractured area can help break up scar tissue and adhesions. Use light pressure and ask your doctor when this may be beneficial.
- Functional exercises - Everyday activities can act as therapy too. As you recover, try tasks like turning a doorknob, using a fork, or buttoning a shirt to improve coordination.
- Balance exercises - Since your wrist helps with balance, exercises like standing on one foot can help retrain those reflexes. Have a chair or wall nearby for support.
- Occupational therapy - An occupational therapist can help you relearn skills needed for daily living and work. They may use special devices to improve wrist use.
- Pain and swelling management - Measures like ice, compression, elevation, over-the-counter pain medication, and wearing a brace can help manage discomfort.
Staying positive and patient with the recovery process is important. Regularly doing recommended exercises, attending physical therapy, and focusing on incremental progress will help you regain strength and function in your healing wrist over time.
Returning to Daily Activities After a Wrist Fracture
After a wrist fracture, it is important to take the proper precautions when returning to your regular daily activities. This will help ensure your wrist heals properly and prevent re-injury.
- Talk to your doctor about when it is safe to resume activities. Typically, your wrist will need around 6 weeks to heal from a fracture. Your doctor will assess your progress and determine when you can start using your wrist more.
- Begin with gentle range-of-motion exercises first. Start by slowly rotating and flexing your wrist. Over time, work your way up to lifting light weights as tolerated without pain. Avoid lifting anything too heavy until your doctor clears you.
- Use pain as your guide. If an activity causes sharp pain, stop. Some discomfort is expected, but severe pain could indicate you are overdoing activities too soon.
- Wear a wrist brace or splint while doing activities if directed by your doctor. The extra support helps stabilize the wrist bone as it heals.
- Limit repetitive wrist motions at first, then gradually increase activity. Typing on a computer keyboard, writing, gripping tools, and other repetitive tasks may need to be modified after a wrist fracture.
- Take frequent breaks when performing daily tasks. Do gentle wrist stretches and give your wrist a rest periodically to avoid overuse.
- Consider occupational therapy. An occupational therapist can help you safely increase strength and function in your wrist through specialized exercises and techniques.
- Be patient. It takes time to regain normal use of your wrist. Pace yourself and don't try to rush the healing process.
With your doctor's guidance and by gradually increasing activity, you can successfully return to all your usual tasks and hobbies after a fractured wrist. Taking it slow protects your healing wrist bone and tissues.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wrist Fractures Answered by a Texas Car Accident Lawyer
A wrist fracture means that one or more of the bones in your wrist has cracked or broken. This can be an extremely painful injury that typically requires medical treatment. If you suffered a wrist fracture in a car accident that was someone else’s fault, you likely have many questions about your legal rights. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about wrist fractures after a crash.
- What are the most common symptoms of a fractured wrist?
The most common symptoms of a wrist fracture include:
- Severe pain in the wrist area
- Swelling around the wrist joint
- Bruising or discoloration around the wrist
- Visible deformity or misalignment of the wrist
- Inability to move or use the wrist normally
- Numbness or tingling in the hand
- How is a wrist fracture diagnosed?
Doctors use imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans or MRIs to diagnose a wrist fracture and determine the exact location and severity of the break. You may also need nerve function tests to check if any nerves were damaged. Based on the test results, your doctor can determine the best treatment plan.
- What are the treatment options for a fractured wrist?
Treatment options may include:
- Immobilizing the wrist in a cast or splint so the bones can heal properly
- Aligning the bones back into their normal position (reduction)
- Surgery using plates, screws or pins to hold the bones in place while they mend
- Physical therapy after the bones have healed to improve strength and range of motion
- How long does it take for a broken wrist to heal?
On average, minor wrist fractures take about 6 weeks to heal while more severe breaks can take 12 weeks or longer. The exact recovery time depends on factors like your age, health, and the type of fracture. Following your doctor’s treatment instructions carefully is key to proper healing.
- Can I make a claim if a car accident caused my wrist fracture?
Yes. If another driver’s negligence caused your accident and injuries, you have the right to seek compensation through an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. An experienced car accident attorney can help prove liability and make sure you receive a full and fair settlement.
Consult with a qualified wrist fracture lawyer to understand your legal options after a car crash. With the proper advice, you can focus on healing while holding any at-fault parties accountable.
Conclusion
As we've discussed, a fractured wrist can lead to pain, swelling, and bruising around the wrist area. If you experience these symptoms after an injury, it's important to seek medical attention right away. Getting an x-ray can confirm if your wrist is fractured so you can start proper treatment. With rest, immobilization, and physical therapy, most wrist fractures heal well over time. Don't try to ignore the symptoms and "tough it out" - an untreated fracture may not heal properly. If by any unfortunate circusmtances, a fractured wrist causes you to indulge in a car accident, don't think twice to seek guidance from lawyers at Fletcher Law. Taking good care of a fractured wrist helps ensure you'll regain strength and mobility. Your recovery time will vary based on factors like your age, health, and type of fracture. With patience and by following your doctor's advice, you can get back to using your wrist comfortably.