Distal Radius Fractures (Wrist Fractures)

What is a Distal Radius Fracture?

A distal radius fracture is one of the most common orthopedic injuries and occurs when the radius breaks near the wrist joint.

This injury is often referred to as a broken wrist and commonly occurs when someone falls onto an outstretched hand.

Distal radius fractures are especially common in:

  • Older adults with osteoporosis
  • Athletes and active individuals
  • People who experience falls or accidents

Symptoms

Common symptoms include:

  • Wrist pain and tenderness
  • Swelling and bruising
  • Difficulty moving the wrist
  • Visible deformity of the wrist

Treatment

Treatment depends on the severity and alignment of the fracture.

Non-Surgical Treatment

Many distal radius fractures can be treated with:

  • Splint or cast immobilization
  • Pain control
  • Follow-up imaging during healing

Surgical Treatment

If the fracture is displaced or unstable, surgery may be necessary to restore proper wrist alignment. This typically involves internal fixation with a specialized plate and screws.

Recovery

Most patients recover within 6–12 weeks, followed by rehabilitation exercises to restore wrist strength and mobility.

Frequently Asked Questions

The most common wrist fracture is a distal radius fracture, which occurs when the radius bone breaks near the wrist joint. This injury often happens after a fall onto an outstretched hand and is sometimes referred to as a broken wrist.

Distal radius fractures are especially common in older adults with osteoporosis and in active individuals who experience falls or sports injuries.

Most wrist fractures heal within 6 to 8 weeks, although complete recovery can take longer depending on:

  • The severity of the fracture
  • Whether surgery was required
  • Participation in physical therapy
  • The patient’s age and overall health

Regaining full wrist strength and flexibility may take several additional weeks or months.

A distal radius fracture is diagnosed through a physical exam and confirmed with X-rays. In more complex cases, advanced imaging such as a CT scan may be used to evaluate the fracture in detail.

Yes, many wrist fractures can be treated without surgery if the bones are well aligned. Non-surgical treatment options include:

  • Casting or splinting to immobilize the wrist
  • Pain management
  • Routine follow-up X-rays to ensure proper healing

Surgery may be recommended if the fracture is displaced, unstable, or involves the joint surface. Surgical treatment usually involves open reduction and internal fixation using plates and screws to restore proper alignment and function.

Wrist Fracture Specialists – East Bay Ortho

Prompt evaluation by an orthopedic specialist is important if you suspect a wrist fracture.

The experienced physicians at East Bay Ortho provide advanced care for distal radius and wrist fractures, helping patients return to normal activities as safely and quickly as possible.

We serve communities across the East Bay, including:

  • Oakland
  • Hayward
  • San Leandro
  • San Ramon
  • Dublin

Contact East Bay Ortho today to schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists.

Our Address

East Bay Orthopaedic Trauma & Reconstruction
19842 Lake Chabot Rd, Suite B
Castro Valley, CA 94546

Contact Us

Dr. Michael Krosin,  Dr. Steven Zourabian & Dr. Virginia Lieu
Phone (510) 750-1967
Fax (844) 718-0067

Appointments

For immediate assistance during business hours:
Monday through Friday: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm,
please call 510 750 1967