Fractures of the hand, wrist, and elbow are common injuries that can occur from falls, accidents, or sports activities. Each type of fracture requires prompt and specific treatment to ensure proper healing and restore functionality. In this blog, we’ll explore the different types of fractures affecting these areas and what treatment options are available.
Hand Fractures
Hand fractures involve breaks in the small bones that make up the hand, including the metacarpals (bones of the palm) and phalanges (finger bones). These injuries often occur due to direct trauma, such as falls or sports-related impacts.
Common Types of Hand Fractures:
- Metacarpal Fractures: These affect the long bones of the hand and are commonly seen in sports-related injuries or falls.
- Phalangeal Fractures: Fractures of the finger bones, which can occur from jamming a finger or direct blows.
- Boxer’s Fracture: A break in the neck of the fifth metacarpal, often caused by punching an object.
Treatment for Hand Fractures:
Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the fracture. Simple fractures may require immobilization with a splint or cast, while more complex fractures may require surgical intervention, such as pins, screws, or plates, to realign the bones.
Wrist Fractures
Wrist fractures are one of the most common bone injuries, often occurring from a fall onto an outstretched hand. The wrist consists of two major bones: the radius and the ulna. The most frequently fractured bone in the wrist is the distal radius.
Common Types of Wrist Fractures:
- Distal Radius Fractures: A break in the end of the radius bone, near the wrist, commonly known as a “Colles’ fracture.”
- Scaphoid Fractures: A break in one of the small carpal bones on the thumb side of the wrist, often resulting from a fall.
Treatment for Wrist Fractures:
Non-surgical treatment typically includes immobilization with a cast or splint. If the bone is displaced, surgery may be necessary to realign and stabilize the fracture using metal hardware.
Elbow Fractures
Elbow fractures occur in one of the three bones that form the elbow joint: the humerus (upper arm bone), radius, or ulna. These injuries often result from falls or direct impacts.
Common Types of Elbow Fractures:
- Olecranon Fractures: A break in the bony tip of the ulna, often caused by a fall or direct hit to the elbow.
- Radial Head Fractures: Fractures of the radius near the elbow, common in falls on an outstretched arm.
- Distal Humerus Fractures: Fractures in the lower part of the humerus, near the elbow, often seen in high-impact injuries.
Treatment for Elbow Fractures:
For minor fractures, treatment may involve wearing a sling or splint. However, more complex fractures may require surgery to realign the bones with plates and screws, particularly when the bone fragments are displaced.
Humeral Shaft Fractures
The humerus is the long bone of the upper arm, running from the shoulder to the elbow. A humeral shaft fracture refers to a break that occurs in the middle portion of this bone. These injuries are typically caused by falls, direct blows, or trauma such as car accidents, but they can also happen during sports or even twisting injuries.
Symptoms
- Sudden pain in the upper arm
- Swelling, bruising, or deformity of the arm
- Difficulty moving the arm or shoulder
- Possible numbness or weakness if nearby nerves are affected
Diagnosis
Evaluation includes a physical exam and X-rays to confirm the location and severity of the break. Occasionally, advanced imaging may be needed if the fracture pattern is complex.
Treatment Options
Most humeral shaft fractures can heal without surgery using:
- Immobilization with a splint, brace, or cast to stabilize the bone while it heals
- Pain control and activity modification
- Physical therapy to restore movement and strength after the bone begins to heal
Surgery may be recommended if:
- The fracture is severely displaced
- The bone does not heal properly with non-surgical treatment
- There is associated nerve or blood vessel injury
Surgical repair usually involves plates and screws or rods placed inside the bone to stabilize healing.
Recovery
Healing typically takes 8–12 weeks, depending on the severity of the fracture and the patient’s overall health. Early movement and guided physical therapy are important to regain function of the arm. Most patients can return to normal activities, though full recovery may take several months.
The Importance of Prompt Treatment
Prompt treatment of fractures in the hand, wrist, and elbow is crucial to prevent complications such as stiffness, long-term pain, or limited range of motion. At ROC, our experts specialize in diagnosing and treating fractures, ensuring that patients receive the highest standard of care.
If you suspect a fracture in your hand, wrist, or elbow, contact us today to explore your options.
