Forearm Fracture

Overview

• A fracture is a broken bone.
• Common arm fracture areas:
  • Wrist (Distal Radius)
  • Forearm Bones (Radius and Ulna)
  • Elbow
  • Humerus
  • Shoulder

Causes

• Trauma is the primary cause.
• Younger people:
  • Falls from height
  • Sports injuries
  • Motor vehicle accidents
• Older people:
  • Weaker bones
  • Trips and falls from standing height

Signs and Symptoms

• Obvious signs: Arm looks crooked.
• Subtle signs (if bone hasn't moved far):
  • Bruising
  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Difficulty in moving
  • Numbness or tingling
• Deep cuts with broken bones should be immediately checked for infection risk.

Diagnosis

• Check for nerve and blood vessel integrity.
• X-ray for diagnosis.
• CT scan or MRI may be required.

Treatment

• If out of place, fracture might be straightened by a doctor.
• Often done in emergency or a few days post-injury.
• Follow-up with a hand surgeon is common.
• Healing:
  • Children often heal well in a cast (4-6 weeks).
  • Activities restricted for 2-3 months post-cast.
• Surgery:
  • Required if cast is ineffective.
  • Involves pins, screws, plates to hold bones during healing.
  • Hand therapy aids in regaining motion and strength.
• Recovery expectations:
  • Simple fractures: Nearly full recovery.
  • Complicated breaks: Possible loss of motion.
  • Severe cases may lead to arthritis and stiffness.
  • Additional surgery may be needed.

Specialization

• Hand surgeons are trained for diagnosing and treating upper extremity fractures.
• Consultation is recommended if arm injury occurs.

Visual Aids

• Figure 1A: X-ray of an ulna fracture
• Figures 1B & 1C: Pins and screws used to stabilize the ulna

Source: 2015 American Society for Surgery of the Hand (www.handcare.org)