Situation after a radius fracture

In general, the cause of arthrosis can also be due to injuries directly to the bone. The healing process can result in deposits on the bone, which can cause problems close to the joint surfaces. This is also true for the wrist.

If the radius distal to the joint was broken, healing in that area plays no further role in the development of osteoarthritis.
However, if the radius was broken close to the joint, this may be a partial cause of osteoarthritis. Then it is decisive how the bone was broken. A simple fracture with optimal wound healing would be desirable and would not cause any problems. If there is a bone displacement or luxation and an extensive operation, in which the metals may have to be removed again after a few months, several stimuli are applied to the joint, which usually leaves small consequential damages.If, after a fracture, mobility remains restricted in the area of the hand, the synovial fluid is not well preserved and the degeneration process starts earlier than in a healthy hand.

Situation after a carpal fracture

The area of the wrist forms the wrist together with the distal end of the radius and ulnar. The lower row of the wrist is built like an “egg” so that it can slide optimally in the bulge of the ulnar and radius to ensure a final movement. If a fracture occurs in the area of the wrist, it can affect the entire joint.

After the fracture, the hand is usually immobilized for a certain period of time, which causes the cartilage layer to disintegrate, as it is nourished by pressure and traction (i.e. movement). If the final movement cannot be completely restored after the wound has stopped healing, this already has a negative effect on the cartilage that is fed by the movement. In addition, screw osteosynthesis is usually performed in the case of a complicated fracture, which must either remain completely in place or be removed again after a few months. These surgical procedures also change the physiology in the joint and alter the mobility between the wrist and between the cartilage and the wrist.