Symptoms
Most hand and wrist fractures take about 6-8 weeks to recover from. However, it could take as long as six months in more severe cases. Sprains and fractures often have similar symptoms. An X-ray might be needed to differentiate between a sprain and a fracture. Symptoms of hand and wrist fractures include:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Weakness or the inability to grasp or pick up an object
- Noticeable wrist deformity
- Pain when moving the hand or wrist
Causes
Hand and wrist fractures are caused when force is applied to the bone either through a fall, twist, or direct blow to the hand or wrist. Those with conditions such as osteoporosis are at higher risk of getting a hand and wrist fracture. Causes include:
- Sports Injury
- Falls
- Overuse causing stress fractures (Most common in athletes)
Treatments
Treatment may vary depending on how severe the fracture is. Most people fully recover from a hand or wrist fracture. Treatments for hand and wrist fractures include:
- Wearing a cast or splint
- Surgery using pins to hold bones in place
- Physical therapy
- Reconstructive surgery using plates and screws to fix the damaged bone
