How Are Carpal Fractures Treated?
How Are Carpal Fractures Treated?
What's the Process?
Treating carpal fractures involves careful steps to ensure proper healing and restored function. Discover the typical treatment procedures for these injuries.
Contents
- Initial Steps in Treatment
- Advanced Treatment Options
- Rehabilitation and Recovery
Initial Steps in Treatment
Immediate care for carpal fractures includes immobilizing the wrist with a splint or cast. This prevents further injury and helps manage pain, often with ice and over-the-counter pain relievers.
Advanced Treatment Options
For fractures not healing properly, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgery can realign bones and fixate them with screws or plates to ensure proper healing.
Rehabilitation and Recovery
Post-treatment rehabilitation is crucial for regaining full wrist function. Physical therapy exercises focus on restoring range of motion and strength, helping patients return to normal activities.
FAQs
What is the first step in treating carpal fractures?
Immobilizing the wrist with a splint or cast.
When is surgery required?
Surgery is needed for fractures that don't heal properly.
What does rehabilitation involve?
Rehabilitation focuses on restoring motion and strength.
The Bottom Line
Effective treatment and rehabilitation are key to a full recovery from carpal fractures.
Additional References
- Geissler WB, Slade JF. Fractures of the carpal bones. In: Green's Operative Hand Surgery, 6th ed, Wolfe SW, Hotchkiss RN, Pederson WC, Kozin SH (Eds), Churchill Livingstone, 2011.
- Kaewlai R, Avery LL, Asrani AV, et al. Multidetector CT of carpal injuries: anatomy, fractures, and fracture-dislocations. Radiographics 2008; 28:1771.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.