Broken Wrist

Anatomy of the Hand and Wrist

By: Julia Guthart, CHT 

Bones of the Hand and Wrist.

Movements of the wrist, fingers, and thumb are generated by muscles that originate in the forearm. Grip strength and pinching ability are directly influenced upon positioning of the wrist during every day functional activities and tasks. 

The forearm is comprised of two main bones called the radius (thumb side) and ulna (small finger side). 


Illustration showing the bones of the wrist. JOI RehabBones of the Wrist

The proximal or closest end of the radius and ulna articulate with the humerus or upper arm bone. The distal or furthest end of the radius and ulna articulate with the carpal bones of the wrist forming the radiocarpal, ulnocarpal, and distal radioulnar joints. 

There at a total of 8 carpal bones consisting of a proximal and distal row. The proximal row includes the scaphoid, lunate, triquetrum, and pisiform bones. The distal row is comprised of the trapeizum, trapezoid, capitate, and hamate bones. The distal carpal bones connect to the bones in the hand and fingers. 

Fracture vs Break? Sprained Wrist vs Broken Wrist?

A fracture is the same as a break or broken wrist.  A sprained wrist or broken wrist is determined by your physician exam and usually x-rays.  A sprained wrist involves damage to the ligaments holding the bones together.  A broken or fractured wrist involves the various bones of the wrist. 

Symptoms of a Broken Wrist

The most common cause of a broken or a fracture wrist includes falling onto an outstretched hand or FOOSH injury. Usually one attempts to brace their fall causing the wrist to hyperextend, fracturing the distal end of the radius causing it to shift or bend backwards. 

This is also known as a Colle's fracture. Conversely, if one falls onto a flexed wrist and the radius breaks/shifts towards the palm, this is known as a Smith's fracture. 

Dr. Garry Kitay states "The scaphoid fracture is frequently misjudged to be a sprain, and can lead to significant pain and loss of function. There must be a high index of suspicion for this fracture whenever there is pain on the thumb side of the wrist following an injury."  Dr. Kitay is board certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery and he practices at the JOI San Marco location.

Common Causes of a Broken Wrist

Other common causes of a broken vs break of the wrist include sport-related injuries and motor vehicle accidents. Fractures of the ulna do occur with injury however are not as common. It can be difficult to tell the difference between a sprained wrist vs broken wrist. Signs and symptoms of a broken wrist includes:

  • Significant pain and tenderness upon touch or movement
  • Limited or loss of range of motion and strength
  • Discoloration of skin and bruising
  • Edema (swelling)
  • Deformity of the upper extremity
  • Loss of sensation or numbness and tingling
  • Inability or difficulty moving fingers and/or thumb


Depending on the severity of the fracture and whether it is displaced (misaligned) or non-displaced (aligned) determines the treatment and plan of care. Upon injury the individual should keep the wrist immobilized and seek immediate medical attention.

Fractured WristBroken Wrist

What about the Swelling in my Wrist?

Ice can be utilized to help with initial swelling and pain. Upon evaluation, diagnostic testing will be obtained in the form of an X-ray, CT Scan, and/or MRI to determine the location and severity of the break. Based on examination and results of imaging, the orthopedic MD will determine if the fracture can be treated conservatively through reducing or setting the bone without surgery (closed reduction) and immobilizing the wrist via hard cast (Activarmor cast), splint, or wrist brace to allow the fracture to heal in its proper position.

In severe cases surgery is required, using plates and screws to secure the fracture in place (open reduction). Modalities such as heat and ice and medications can help manage swelling, inflammation, and pain throughout the rehabilitation process. 

Fractures typically heal in 6-8 weeks, however individuals usually work with a Hand or Occupational Therapist to restore range of motion and strength to allow them to return to their prior level of function. JOI has hand and wrist surgeons who can diagnose and treat your broken or fractured wrist. 

With a broken wrist, you might also want to select an Activarmor Cast versus the traditional cast.  Here are the benefits of an Activarmor Cast:

  • Waterproof Cast
  • Breathable Cast Material
  • Fixed or Removable Cast
  • Light-weight
  • Custom Fabricated with Multiple Colors
  • Improved Hygiene of the involved body part

Additional benefits include:

  • Hygienic benefits including the ability to bathe and shower with it on to aid reducing risk of catching viruses such as the cold or flu.
  • Reduced feelings of claustrophobia
  • Improved skin condition and comfort
  • Reduced irritation due to breath-ability and improved hygiene options
  • Reduced office time and visits for re-casting and re-fitting due to soggy casts, deformed splints or worn velcro
  • Patients can have access to post-surgical incisions for wound dressing and follow-up care at home

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Book an Appointment with The Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute Today!

JOI Physicians continue to offer online new patient appointments. This is another option to make it more convenient to make new patient appointments with less phone hold times. Follow the link below to select your JOI MD and schedule online.

You can still call 904-JOI-2000 to make new patient JOI Physician Appointments if that is your preference.

To make appointments with JOI Rehab, please call 904-858-7045.

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