Other symptoms

Besides the expected pain, a distal radius fracture is usually accompanied by other symptoms. Typically, the hand can no longer be loaded properly and muscle strength is significantly reduced. Due to the pain, the hand is usually held in a gentle position.

The fracture of the distal radius is usually accompanied by swelling of the arm or hand, and in some cases bruising may occur. A malposition of the arm is also often observed. An extension fracture is usually accompanied by a so-called bayonet malalignment, while a fork malalignment is frequently observed in a flexion fracture. In some cases, sensory disturbances in the fingers or arm can also result.

Operation

Surgery is usually necessary for distal radius fractures when conservative therapy does not seem promising. Conservative treatment involves repositioning the fracture and subsequent immobilization in a plaster cast. Regular x-ray monitoring is indicated to rule out the possibility of the fracture slipping with consecutive crooked fusion.

The surgical concept for a distal radius fracture depends on the severity and complexity of the fracture. There are various synthesis procedures: Individual bone fragments can be pulled together using wires (so-called Kirschner wires). Bone parts can also be screwed together.

In comminuted fractures with many individual bone fragments, however, the use of a plate is recommended; this is known as plating. The plate is usually made of titanium and the individual bone fragments are fixed to it like a puzzle. It usually remains permanently in the arm. If an operation is not primarily necessary or possible, because other operations have priority – for example in polytraumas – an external fixator is occasionally used. An external scaffold is used to fix and immobilize the untreated fracture, almost like a scaffold around a house that is still under construction.

Physiotherapy

The operation of a distal radius fracture is seamlessly followed by physiotherapy or occupational therapy. Fortunately, the times when the patient was sent home directly after the operation are over. The term “ergon” comes from the Greek, and means “work” – often the Latin “ergo” (“follow-up”) is wrongly circulated, which is not correct.

Thus, occupational therapy deals with the resumption of the ability to act in everyday life, while physiotherapy takes a more nurturing and healing approach. Both concepts are extremely important, because after long periods of immobilization or serious injuries, the hand often cannot be moved to its full range of motion, or in some cases not at all. Many patients also do not know how much they can trust their operated hand and have to relearn how to use it correctly and carefully. The work of physiotherapists and occupational therapists goes far beyond the purely anatomical and rehabilitative measure and also includes a psychological supporting component.