Wrist and Forearm Trauma

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Wrist and forearm trauma encompasses a wide range of injuries such as fractures, dislocations, non-unions, and mal-unions, all of which can significantly affect function and mobility. Accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential to ensure proper healing and to prevent long-term complications.

Types of Wrist and Forearm Trauma

Dr. Fort specializes in treating many wrist and forearm injuries, including:

Mal-Unions: A mal-union occurs when a fractured bone heals in an incorrect position, which can affect the alignment and function of the wrist or forearm. In severe cases, surgery may be required to realign the bone.
Fractures: Broken bones in the wrist or forearm may result from falls, direct blows, or high-impact accidents. Fractures can occur in the radius, ulna, or smaller wrist bones. Treatment depends on the severity of the break and may range from immobilization or realignment to surgery.
Dislocations: Dislocations occur when the bones in a joint are forced out of their normal position. In the wrist or forearm, dislocations typically involve the wrist or elbow joint. Prompt realignment is crucial to prevent long-term damage.
Non-Unions: A non-union occurs when a fractured bone fails to heal properly, leading to persistent pain and dysfunction. This condition may require surgical intervention to promote proper bone healing.

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Treatments

Treatment for wrist and forearm trauma varies depending on the type and severity of the injury. Early intervention is critical to achieving the best possible outcome.

Physical Therapy: After the initial treatment, physical therapy is often advised to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Such rehabilitation is an important part of recovery, especially after surgery or immobilization.
Immobilization: For fractures and dislocations, immobilization using splints, casts, or braces allows the bones and joints to heal properly. In some cases, surgical fixation with pins, plates, or screws may be necessary. This treatment can also be crucial for preventing non-unions or mal-unions.
Surgery: Surgical intervention may be required for severe fractures, dislocations, non-unions, and mal-unions. Surgery can help realign bones, repair damaged structures, and restore function. Procedures may include fracture fixation, bone grafting, or joint realignment.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I injure my wrist or forearm?

After a wrist or forearm injury, it is important to immobilize the area and immediately seek medical attention. Avoid using the injured arm until you can be evaluated by a healthcare professional. If there is swelling, applying ice can help reduce inflammation and pain.

What are the most common causes of wrist and forearm trauma?

The most common causes of wrist and forearm trauma include:
Falls: Falling onto an outstretched hand, wrist, or forearm is a frequent cause of fractures and dislocations.
Sports Injuries: Contact sports, repetitive motions, and accidental impacts during athletic activities can lead to a wide range of wrist and forearm injuries.
Workplace Accidents: Jobs that involve heavy machinery, tools, or repetitive motions can increase the risk of wrist and forearm trauma, particularly crush injuries and repetitive strain injuries.
Car Accidents: Motor vehicle collisions often result in trauma to the hands and arms, leading to fractures, dislocations, and soft tissue injuries.
In all of these cases, it is important to use safety precautions to prevent wrist and forearm injuries.

How are wrist and forearm fractures treated?

Treatment for wrist and forearm fractures depends on the severity of the break. Minor fractures may be treated with splints or casts, while more severe fractures may require surgical intervention to realign and stabilize the bones.

How can I avoid long-term complications after a wrist or forearm injury?

To avoid long-term complications, after a wrist or forearm injury it is important to seek immediate medical attention to get an accurate diagnosis and receive treatment. It is essential to follow your doctor’s treatment plan, which may include immobilization, surgery, and physical therapy. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are key to ensuring proper healing and preventing issues such as non-unions or mal-unions.

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