Treatment of Hand & Wrist Fractures

Diagnosing your wrist and hand fractures typically begins with a thorough physical examination of the injured areas. A healthcare professional will check your wrist and hand for signs of swelling, bruising, deformity, and tenderness. X-rays are usually the first imaging modality used to confirm the presence and severity of fractures in either your wrist or hand. X-rays provide a clear view of the bones, revealing breaks, dislocations, or misalignments. In more complex cases, such as comminuted fractures or those involving joint surfaces, CT scans or MRIs may be required for both your wrist and hand injuries. These advanced imaging methods provide detailed cross-sectional images to assess soft tissue involvement and guide surgical planning if necessary.

The treatment of both your wrist and hand fractures depends on the severity and location of the injury. In cases where the fracture is minor and the bone alignment is maintained, conservative treatment options such as immobilisation using a cast or splint may suffice. This approach allows your broken bone to heal naturally over time, with regular follow-up visits to monitor progress through x-rays and physical examinations. However, more severe fractures, such as comminuted or intra-articular fractures, often require surgical intervention to ensure proper alignment and stabilisation.

Immobilisation

For both your wrist and hand fractures, a cast or splint may be used to stabilise the injury and allow for natural healing.

Reduction

If your bones are misaligned in the wrist or hand, they can be realigned (reduced) either manually or surgically, depending on the complexity.

Surgery

Severe fractures in your wrist or hand, such as comminuted or open fractures, may require surgical intervention. Internal fixation with plates, screws, or pins is common in both regions. Bone grafts may be used to fill gaps in extensive injuries.

External fixation

Used in complex wrist and hand fractures, external fixators stabilize your bones while allowing soft tissue to heal. This surgical technique involves using a metal frame with pins that go through your skin and into the bone to stabilise the fracture externally. External fixation is often employed in severe cases where the fracture is comminuted or involves significant soft tissue damage. It provides a temporary solution that allows for swelling reduction and soft tissue healing before considering more permanent surgical interventions. This method is particularly beneficial in managing open fractures, where the risk of infection is high, as it keeps the fracture stabilized without the need for extensive internal hardware. External fixation can also be adjusted as needed to ensure proper alignment of the bone pieces during the healing process. You must follow strict care guidelines to prevent infection at the pin sites and may require additional treatment to achieve optimal bone healing.

Pain management and rehabilitation

Pain management is crucial for you during recovery from wrist and hand fractures. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or prescribed pain relievers are often recommended to alleviate discomfort. Rehabilitation exercises for both your wrist and hand play a vital role in recovery. Hand therapy focuses on restoring grip strength, dexterity, and finger mobility, while wrist therapy emphasises restoring range of motion, strength, and stability. A coordinated rehabilitation plan ensures both structures regain optimal function.

Recovery from your wrist and hand fractures varies, often taking several months. Factors such as age, the severity of the injury, and adherence to rehabilitation plans can influence outcomes. While most individuals regain full use of their wrist and hand, you may experience lingering stiffness or reduced strength. Early intervention, proper treatment, and diligent follow-up care are essential to minimize complications and maximize functional recovery in both your wrist and hand.