040 68334455
WhatsApp
Patient Portal
Home Care
Colles Fracture: Causes, Signs, and Treatment
Colles fracture is a type of broken bone that occurs in the forearm near the wrist. The primary impact of a Colles fracture on health is the potential limitation it can impose on everyday activities and mobility. This type of fracture can lead to discomfort, reduced functionality in the affected arm, and may require medical intervention to promote proper healing and restore optimal function.
Symptoms of Colles Fracture
Colles fracture symptoms typically involve pain, swelling, and limited mobility in the affected wrist area. In addition, there may be visible deformity or bruising. It is essential to seek medical attention promptly if you suspect a Colles fracture.
- Swelling
- Pain
- Bruising
- Deformity in the wrist area
Get a second opinion from trusted experts and makeconfident, informed decisions.
Get Second OpinionCauses of Colles Fracture
A Colles fracture typically occurs due to a fall on an outstretched hand. This type of injury is common in older individuals with weakened bones, such as those with osteoporosis. Other causes can include sports injuries or accidents where the wrist is forcefully bent backward. The main factor leading to a Colles fracture is the impact or force placed on the wrist joint, causing the radius bone in the forearm to break near the wrist.
- Fall onto outstretched hand
- Sports injuries, especially in activities like skiing or skating
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Osteoporosis
- Workplace accidents, such as falling from a height
- Physical assaults or fights
Types of Colles Fracture
A Colles' fracture refers to a specific type of wrist fracture that commonly occurs due to a fall onto an outstretched hand. These fractures typically affect the distal radius bone in the forearm. While there are various forms of Colles' fractures, each type has distinct characteristics that may influence treatment and recovery. Understanding the different forms of Colles' fractures can help healthcare providers effectively diagnose and manage these injuries.
- Extraarticular Colles Fracture: This type of Colles fracture occurs outside the wrist joint, typically involving a break in the radius bone near the wrist.
- Intraarticular Colles Fracture: In this type, the fracture extends into the wrist joint, affecting the alignment and movement of the joint.
- Complete Colles Fracture: A complete break across the radius bone near the wrist, often resulting in visible deformity and limited wrist function.
- Comminuted Colles Fracture: This type involves the shattering of the radius bone near the wrist into multiple fragments, requiring careful management for proper healing.
- Displaced Colles Fracture: A fracture where the broken ends of the radius bone near the wrist are not aligned, leading to the need for realignment to restore wrist function and alignment.
Risk Factors
A Colles fracture typically occurs due to certain risk factors that contribute to the likelihood of experiencing this type of injury. Understanding these risk factors is crucial in preventing such fractures. By being aware of these factors, individuals can take necessary precautions to reduce their risk of sustaining a Colles fracture.
- Advanced age
- Osteoporosis
- Female gender
- History of previous fractures
- Low body weight
Your health is everything - prioritize your well-being today.
Schedule Your Appointment
Diagnosis of Colles Fracture
Colles fracture is typically diagnosed through a series of steps that involve evaluating the symptoms, performing a physical examination, and using imaging tests. During the diagnosis process, a healthcare provider will assess the extent of pain, swelling, and deformity in the wrist area. They will also examine the range of motion and functionality of the wrist joint.
Imaging tests such as X-rays are often used to confirm the presence of a Colles fracture by showing the specific location and severity of the break in the radius bone near the wrist joint. These diagnostic steps help medical professionals determine the appropriate treatment plan for managing the fracture effectively.
- Xray imaging
- CT scan
- MRI scan
- Physical examination
Treatment for Colles Fracture
Treatment options for a Colles fracture typically involve a combination of immobilization, pain management, and physical therapy. Immobilization may include the use of a splint or cast to help support and protect the fractured bone while it heals.
Pain management techniques can involve over-the-counter or prescription medications to alleviate discomfort. Physical therapy may be recommended to improve range of motion and strength in the affected wrist and hand. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to realign the fractured bone and promote proper healing. It is important to follow your healthcare provider's guidance for the best possible outcome.
- Closed Reduction: This procedure involves manipulating the broken bone back into its correct alignment without surgery, typically performed under local anesthesia. It helps restore proper bone alignment and promote healing.
- Casting: After reducing the fracture, a cast is applied to keep the bones in place and protect them as they heal. The cast provides stability and support to the injured wrist, allowing the bone to mend properly.
- Physical Therapy: Once the cast is removed, physical therapy is often recommended to help restore strength, mobility, and function to the wrist joint. Exercises and stretching can improve range of motion and prevent stiffness.
- Pain Management: Pain medications may be prescribed to help manage discomfort during the healing process. Overthecounter pain relievers or prescription medications can be used to alleviate pain and promote comfort.
- Surgical Intervention: In severe cases or if the bones are unable to align properly with nonsurgical methods, surgery may be necessary.
Surgical options may include internal fixation with pins, plates, or screws to stabilize the fracture and facilitate proper healing.
Still have questions? Speak with our experts now!
040-68334455Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Colles fracture?
A Colles fracture is a type of wrist fracture that occurs when the radius bone in the forearm breaks near the wrist joint.
How is a Colles fracture diagnosed?
A Colles fracture is typically diagnosed through physical examination, Xrays, and sometimes additional imaging tests like CT scans.
What are the common symptoms of a Colles fracture?
Common symptoms of a Colles fracture include pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and difficulty moving or using the wrist.
How is a Colles fracture treated?
Treatment for a Colles fracture may involve immobilization with a splint or cast, pain medication, physical therapy, or in some cases surgery.
What is the recovery time for a Colles fracture?
The recovery time for a Colles fracture can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the individual's healing process but typically ranges from 6 to 12 weeks.
Feeling unwell?
Request a callback!
