Copyright 1997-2020, A.D.A.M., Inc. Radial head fractures are common injuries, occurring in about 20% of all acute elbow injuries. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. The bone that is usually broken is called the radius. The distal radius fracture is one of the most common fractures of the wrist. It has been suggested that people who have a wrist fracture should be tested for bone weakness, especially if they have other risk factors for osteoporosis. It is important to use opioids only as directed by your doctor. All material on this website is protected by copyright. Most fractures heal well in 6 to 8 weeks.For pain, you can use ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn), or acetaminophen (Tylenol). Many patients find that using ice, elevation (holding their arm up above their heart), and simple, non-prescription medications for pain relief are all that are needed to relieve pain.Your doctor may recommend combining ibuprofen and acetaminophen to relieve pain and inflammation. Many elbow dislocations also involve fractures of the radial head. If you have a small fracture and your bones did not move around much, you will likely wear a splint or sling that supports your arm, elbow, and forearm. When you have a Colles’ wrist fracture, the distal end breaks, which can cause your wrist to bend in an abnormal way.This injury is very painful.
The ulna bone may also be broken. Duplication for commercial use must be authorized in writing by ADAM Health Solutions. Therefore the radius is considered to be the larger of the two. In: Wolfe SW, Hotchkiss RN, Pederson WC, Kozin SH, Cohen MS, eds. Some people develop Make sure you’re getting enough calcium by eating dark, leafy green vegetables and low-fat dairy products fortified with calcium. Ossification commences in the lower end between 9 and 26 months of age.An additional center sometimes found in the radial tuberosity, appears about the fourteenth or fifteenth year. Some fractures require surgery to: Depending on how severe your fracture is and on other factors, you may not have full range of motion after you recover.
The radius bone goes from your elbow to your wrist. After surgery, you may need to wear a splint or cast to immobilize your wrist and help with pain relief.Depending on the severity of your injury, you might have to work with a physical therapist or occupational therapist. The end toward the wrist is called the distal end. You should be able to do light activities about a month or two after your cast is removed. Weight-bearing exercises such as jogging strengthen the bones and muscles in the lower half of your body. Putting your hand out to stop yourself from falling is the most common cause of a Colles’ wrist fracture.
X-rays can show if the bone is broken and whether there is displacement (a gap between broken bones). This helps determine what course of treatment you need. If your diet isn’t giving you enough calcium, you can make up for it by taking calcium supplements. Eating foods that contain vitamin D, such as salmon, can help you get the amount you need.
Fractures of the radial head.
This fracture was first described in 1814 by an Irish surgeon and anatomist, Abraham Colles -- hence the name "Colles" fracture.It is important to classify the type of fracture, because some fractures are more difficult to treat than others. In many cases, the wrist hangs in an odd or bent way (deformity).If the injury is not very painful and the wrist is not deformed, it may be possible to wait until the next day to see a doctor. Fractures of the radius often occur in the part of the bone near the elbow, called the radial "head."
It’s named after Abraham Colles, who wrote a paper on this type of fracture in 1814.Your radius is the larger of the two main bones in your forearm. Talk to your doctor for specific information about your recovery program and return to daily activities.Most fractures hurt moderately for a few days to a couple of weeks. Editorial team. The radius is the larger of the two bones of the forearm. A fracture that extends into the wrist joint. This procedure, called a reduction, is done before your wrist is put in the cast. A plastic bag over the arm while showering should help. The last cast is usually removed after about 6 weeks.During healing, casts and splints must be kept dry. Schedule an appointment with your doctor immediately, or go to an urgent care center for medical treatment. Ligaments may be torn. You will probably need to wear this for at least 2 to 3 weeks.If your break is more severe, you may need to see a bone doctor (orthopedic surgeon).
X-rays may be taken less often if the fracture was not reduced and thought to be stable.The cast is removed about 6 weeks after the fracture happened. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.