Colles
Fracture
Introduction
A
colles fracture is defined as a break across the end of the
large bone of the forearm called the radius.
Cause
As
with most types of wrist fractures a fall is the primary cause
of a colles fracture. The impact of the fall and bodyweight
causes the radius to buckle. The young and elderly are particularly
susceptible to this fracture as children's bones are soft
and elderly patients bones tend to be brittle. In the elderly
a condition called osteoporosis can often lead to a colles
fracture.
Osteoporosis
is a bone disorder. The bones become thinner, lose their strength,
and are more likely to break. People with osteoporosis have
a higher risk of fractures. Their bones can fracture even
during everyday movements, such as bending or coughing. Osteoporosis
is not a form of arthritis, although it can cause fractures
that lead to arthritis.It is more common in women than men
and people with osteoporosis usually fractured the wrist first.
This typically occurs between ages 50 and 70 in women.
Treatment
- Elevate the
wrist and place in a sling.
- Place a ice
pack on the wrist to reduce the swelling.
- Do not
attempt to move the wrist
- Visit a hospital
for x-rays and casting
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation
begins by maintaining the range of movement in the fingers,
thumb and shoulder, on the side of the affected wrist. This
will help to prevent stiffness in these areas. Assuming that
there are no complications with healing, the plaster can usually
be removed after 6 weeks, the doctor may request further x-rays
to ensure the bone is well aligned and is healing.
Recommended
Products for Colles Fracture (Wrist Fracture)
Wrist
Brace
Designed
to limit movement after a fracture. Features a removable aluminum
splint.
Pro
Lite Wrist Splint
The Pro Lite is wrist splint is ideal for weak wrists after
cast removal. Stabilizes the wrist while still allowing full
movement of the fingers
View
other wrist braces
