Understanding Colles Fracture: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

A Colles fracture, also known as a distal radius fracture or a "broken wrist," is a common injury that occurs when the larger bone in your forearm breaks near the wrist on the thumb side. In the United States, Colles fractures account for one out of every ten broken bones.

Symptoms of a Colles Fracture

If you have a Colles fracture, you may experience the following symptoms:

• Pain, especially when flexing the wrist

• Tenderness

• Swelling

• Bruising

• Deformity of the wrist, sometimes called a "dinner fork deformity," causing it to look crooked and bent

If you experience severe pain, numbness in your wrist, arm, or hand, or pale fingers, seek emergency medical attention.

Causes of a Colles Fracture

Colles fractures typically result from falling onto an outstretched arm or getting hit on the wrist. They are common among people who play contact sports, skiers, inline skaters, and bikers. Individuals with osteoporosis or thinning bones are at a higher risk of experiencing a Colles fracture.

Diagnosing a Colles Fracture

To diagnose a Colles fracture, your doctor will perform a thorough physical exam and may require several sets of X-rays, as the fracture can be difficult to see initially.

Treatment Options for a Colles Fracture

Treatment for a Colles fracture depends on the severity of the break. In some cases, your doctor may need to reset the bone under anesthesia. Treatment options include:

• Splint: Used for a few days to a week to reduce swelling

• Cast: Worn for 6-8 weeks or longer, depending on the severity of the break

• Surgery: In some cases, pins, plates, screws, or other devices may be needed to hold the bone in place for proper healing

Recovery from a Colles Fracture

Recovery from a Colles fracture can take time. It is essential to follow your doctor's instructions and take steps to manage pain and swelling, such as:

• Elevating your wrist above heart level

• Applying ice for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours for the first 2-3 days

• Taking over-the-counter pain medication as directed by your doctor

• Performing stretching and strengthening exercises for your fingers, elbow, and shoulder as recommended by your doctor

Complete healing can take 8 weeks or longer, with more severe breaks taking up to 6 months. It is crucial not to rush back into activities too soon, as this can cause further damage.

Complications of a Colles Fracture

Prompt treatment and proper follow-up care can help prevent complications. However, in some cases, complications may occur, such as:

• Nerve or blood vessel injuries

• Compartment syndrome

• Carpal tunnel syndrome

• Osteoarthritis

• Improper healing, leading to tendon injury or ongoing pain

Preventing a Colles Fracture

While it can be challenging to prevent a Colles fracture due to its accidental nature, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk:

• Wear wrist guards during high-risk sports like inline skating

• Talk to your doctor about your risk factors for osteoporosis and take steps to improve your bone health

In conclusion, a Colles fracture is a common wrist injury that requires prompt medical attention and proper treatment to ensure optimal healing and prevent complications. By understanding the symptoms, causes, treatment options, and prevention strategies, you can better navigate the recovery process and get back to your daily activities safely.

For more information on Colles fractures and wrist injuries, visit:

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons - Colles Fracture (Distal Radius Fracture)

• NHS - Broken arm or wrist

• OrthoInfo - Distal Radius Fracture (Broken Wrist)