![]() ![]() ![]() Pain is often moderate, and the doctor may advise using ice packs, elevating the arm, and taking non-prescription painkillers. How much pain is experienced with a Colles fractures varies greatly and is hard to predict. an external fixator, such as a frame on the arm.metal pins, usually of stainless steel or titanium. ![]() There are several alternative methods for holding the bone in place while it heals: Alternatively, the surgeon may make an incision in the skin to align the bones. Once in the operating room, a surgeon may then perform closed reduction. When this happens, the person will need an operation. If the bones are considerably displaced, or there are more than two fragments, the doctor may decide that a cast is not enough to correct the problem. Share on Pinterest To ensure the Colles fracture heals properly, an external fixator may be used to keep the bone in place. This is when the bone is moved back into place without having to make an incision in the skin. If the bone is only slightly out of position, the doctor may perform a technique called closed reduction. ![]() X-rays may be used to evaluate the healing process. The severity of the fracture will determine the time between examinations. The cast usually stays on for about 6 weeks, and a doctor will monitor the healing process at regular intervals. Younger and more active individuals are likely to have a cast. If the bones are in a good position and there has been no displacement, a plaster cast or a splint is likely to be applied until the bones have healed.Ī splint is more commonly used in older people and those who are not very active, and when the pain is minimal. Three main factors will determine which method is used: There are many different ways to achieve this. Treatment for a Colles fracture will aim to get all the broken bones back in the right places and to keep them there until they have healed. As well as showing if any bones are broken, an X-ray will show if any of the bones are out of place, and how many broken pieces there are.Ī doctor who specializes in bones, known as an orthopedist, will usually conduct the treatment. The most common technique for diagnosing broken bones is the X-ray. They will then check for injuries to the surrounding nerves and blood vessels. The doctor will ask about the individual’s recent history to see if any of the common causes of Colles fractures have occurred. Rings should be removed from the fingers before swelling develops. Putting an ice pack on the wrist and keeping it elevated is recommended until a doctor can examine it. If the wrist is not especially painful and there is no deformity, then it may be possible to wait until the next day to see a doctor. the fingers change color, especially pale or white.They should go to the emergency room immediately if they experience any of the following: Image credit: Sylvain Letuffe, 2011 July.Ī person should consult a doctor if the pain they experience in their arm is enough to stop them from using it in a normal way. Share on Pinterest Symptoms of a Colles fracture may include the wrist appearing deformed, and hanging in an unnatural position. However, while this can limit Colles fractures, it will not prevent them all. Those at risk of breaks, such as older people with osteoporosis or those who have problems with their balance, can wear wrist guards. A person may not even know they have weak bones until the break happens.Ĭases of Colles fractures in people aged over 60 tend to happen when they have fallen from a standing position. This condition weakens the bones and often occurs in later life. These types of breaks are also common in older women who have osteoporosis. On the other hand, breaks caused by tripping or falling occur in older adults, as their bones can be more brittle. The age of the person can affect whether or not a Colles fracture occurs.įor example, high-intensity breaks caused by trauma are more common in 18 to 25 year-olds than older adults. It can also occur as a result of trauma, such as occurs in a car, bike, or skiing accident. Smith fractures, Chauffer’s fractures, and Barton’s fractures are types of distal radial fractures also.Ī Colles fracture usually happens when someone falls on to an outstretched arm. In the United States, a Colles fracture is the term used for all distal radius fractures. Image credit: Ashish j29, 2010 OctoberĬolles fractures are extremely common. It is characterized by the bone pointing upwards, and being around 1 inch from the thumb. Share on Pinterest Colles fracture describes a broken wrist. ![]()
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