Broken Wrist – Symptoms and Causes
Overview
A broken wrist happens when one or more wrist bones crack or break completely. Most wrist fractures occur during falls when people try to catch themselves with outstretched hands.
The sudden impact transfers force through the hand to the wrist bones, causing them to break.
Certain activities increase your risk of wrist fractures. These include:
- In-line skating
- Snowboarding
- Other high-impact sports
People with osteoporosis also face higher risks of wrist fractures. Without proper treatment, the bones may heal incorrectly, which can:
- Limit your ability to perform daily tasks
- Make simple activities like writing difficult
- Cause ongoing pain and stiffness
Early treatment helps ensure proper bone alignment and reduces complications. Most wrist fractures can heal well with appropriate medical attention.
Signs of a Broken Wrist
A broken wrist often causes severe pain that may get worse when you grip, squeeze, or move your hand or wrist. You might notice swelling around the injured area and feel tenderness when touching it.
Bruising is also common after this type of injury. In some cases, you might see an obvious deformity, such as your wrist appearing bent at an unusual angle.
When You Should Seek Medical Help
Get medical attention right away if you think you have broken your wrist. This is especially important if you experience numbness, significant swelling, or have trouble moving your fingers.
Waiting too long for proper diagnosis and treatment can lead to poor healing. It might also cause lasting problems like limited wrist movement and reduced grip strength.
Causes
Wrist fractures happen for several reasons:
Falls are a key cause of broken wrists. When people fall and try to catch themselves with an outstretched hand, the impact often breaks wrist bones.
Sports activities frequently lead to wrist breaks. Contact sports pose risks, as do activities where falling is common. In-line skaters and snowboarders often suffer wrist fractures when they fall and land on their hands.
Vehicle accidents can cause more severe wrist breaks. These fractures might shatter bones into multiple pieces and often need surgery to repair properly.
Risk Factors
Sports Activities
Certain sports can increase your risk of wrist fractures. Contact sports and activities where you might fall are especially risky, including:
- Football or soccer (particularly on artificial turf)
- Rugby
- Horseback riding
- Hockey
- Skiing
- Snowboarding
- In-line skating
- Trampoline jumping
People with osteoporosis face an even higher risk of wrist fractures when participating in these activities. The combination of thin bones and high-impact sports creates a particularly dangerous situation for wrist health.
Complications
Broken wrists can sometimes lead to ongoing issues. While most people heal completely, some experience lasting stiffness, aching, or limited movement in the wrist. These symptoms typically fade after cast removal or surgery, but patience is key during recovery.
Physical or occupational therapy exercises often help improve these conditions.
Arthritis may develop years after a wrist fracture, particularly when the break extends into a joint. If you notice pain or swelling in your wrist long after it has healed, consult a healthcare provider for an evaluation.
In some cases, wrist injuries can damage nearby nerves and blood vessels. This is a serious complication requiring immediate medical attention. Watch for warning signs including:
- Numbness in fingers or hand
- Poor circulation (cold fingers, bluish color)
- Unusual tingling sensations
- Weak pulse in the wrist
Ways to Prevent Broken Wrists
Strengthening Your Bones
Building strong bones can help prevent wrist fractures. Eat foods rich in calcium and vitamin D to support bone health. Milk, yogurt, leafy greens, and fortified foods are good choices.
Regular weight-bearing exercise like walking, jogging, or dancing helps maintain bone density. Aim for at least 30 minutes of activity most days of the week.
If you smoke, quitting is important. Smoking weakens bones and slows healing if injuries occur.
Avoiding Falls
Since most wrist breaks happen during falls, take these steps to stay safe:
- Wear flat, supportive shoes with non-slip soles
- Remove tripping hazards like loose rugs and cords
- Ensure good lighting throughout your home
- Get regular eye exams and use proper glasses
- Install bathroom grab bars and stair handrails
Be extra careful on slippery surfaces during winter months. Consider using ice cleats or avoiding icy paths when possible.
Using Safety Equipment
Protect your wrists during high-risk sports and activities with proper gear:
| Activity | Recommended Protection |
|---|---|
| Inline skating | Wrist guards |
| Snowboarding | Wrist guards with palm protection |
| Rugby | Supportive tape or braces |
| Football | Proper technique training |
Wrist guards absorb impact. They also prevent your wrist from bending too far backward during falls.
