Wrist Fractures
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Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine
Sports Medicine Physicians & Pulmonologist located in Metairie, LA
Thousands of Americans experience wrist fractures each year. At Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine in Metairie, Louisiana, sports medicine specialist Luis Espinoza, MD, and his team specialize in diagnosing and repairing wrist fractures. Using minimally invasive treatments, they can relieve pain and encourage your body’s healing process. Call the office to receive treatment for a wrist fracture, or book an appointment online today.
Wrist Fractures Q&A
What is a wrist fracture?
Your wrists connect your hands to your forearms. Each wrist joint has eight bones surrounded by muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Your wrists help you grab and lift objects.
A fracture occurs when you break one or more of the bones in your wrists. Without diagnosis and treatment, fractures can affect your mobility and quality of life.
What are the symptoms of wrist fractures?
The symptoms of wrist fractures include:
- Severe pain
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Bruising
You might also experience a visible abnormality, like a bent wrist, depending on the severity of the fracture.
When should I see an orthopedic specialist about wrist fractures?
Make an appointment with the team at the Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine if you injure your wrist and it’s painful, sensitive, or swollen. The sooner you receive diagnosis and treatment, the sooner you can begin healing. Early intervention reduces your risk of complications, allowing for positive treatment outcomes.
How are wrist fractures diagnosed?
To diagnose a wrist fracture, the team at the Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine reviews your medical records, asks about your symptoms, and completes an exam. During the exam, they look for bruising, redness, and swelling. Your provider also presses on your wrist and forearm, identifying sensitive areas.
Next, the team orders diagnostic imaging, like X-rays, a CT scan, or an MRI. These procedures can confirm injuries invisible to the eye, like broken bones, strains, or sprains.
How are wrist fractures treated?
Treatment of wrist fractures depends on various factors, including how many bones are broken and the severity of your symptoms.
For fractures to heal properly, your bones need to be in alignment. As a result, you need to wear a splint or a cast. Make sure to wear your splint or cast as prescribed and attend each checkup. The team might also prescribe pain medication or physical therapy.
Physical therapy uses stretches, strengthening exercises, and other similar activities to build muscle and increase your range of motion.
If you have a serious wrist fracture, surgery might be necessary. During surgery, the team uses pins, rods, plates, or screws to hold your bones together.
To learn more about treatment for wrist fractures, call the Orthopedic Center for Sports Medicine or book online today.