Fractures of the Distal Radius - FDR

According to the American Physical Therapy Association, the goal of physical therapy is to improve mobility, restore function, relieve pain and prevent further injury and damage using a variety of methods. These include exercises, stretching, traction, electrical stimulation and massage. Obviously, the intensity of the physical treatment depends on the severity of the injury. One of the main functions of physiotherapy is to attend fractures like the FRD (fractures of the distal radius). The FDR are the most common of the skeletal, represents approximately 1/6 of all body’s fractures. 

The radius is the largest bone of the forearm. The end of the wrist side is called distal end. Breaking this tip is a very disabling process due to the frequent use of the hand. Those affected are susceptible to physical therapy. The most common cause of these fractures are falls on the outstretched arm (conditions such as osteoporosis increases the possibility of an FDR). A broken wrist usually causes immediate pain and inflammation. In many cases, the wrist is dislocated.

The treatment of bone fractures attempts to locate broken parts and prevent movement of the area until fully recovered. Doctors who specialize in physical health of the body, as physiatrists, use two types of treatment: non-surgical and surgical treatment. If the broken bone is in the correct position, a cast could be applied until the bone consolidated. The cast is removed roughly six weeks after the fracture occurred. At that point, they often start with physical therapy to help improve movement and function of the injured wrist. Moreover, it is sometimes necessary surgery. When the position of the bone is out of place and cannot be corrected or maintained corrected in a cast, surgery may be required. There are different methods to maintain fracture reduction and stabilization like Kirschner’s wires, screws, use of external fixators or introducing various plate.

In conclusion, the FRD are one of the most common fractures. Actually, these fractures remain difficult to treat but techniques are available to ensure its reduction and control and then start early mobilization and avoid possible sequels. The probability of being treated with a surgical mode will depend on the severity thereof. The total recovery of movement rests largely on physiotherapy techniques such as massage. It is critical to resort to an emergency room in case of a possible injury in this area.

Bibliography:

Albadejo, M. F., Chavarria, H. G., & Sanchez , G. J. (2003). Distal radius fracture. "Fisioterapia", 79.

Sánchez Crespo MR, Del Canto Álvarez F, Peñas Díaz F, De Diego Gutiérrez V, Gutiérrez Santiago M. (2009). Functional results and complications of locked distal radius volar. "Revista Española de Cirugía Ortopédica y Traumatología"., 382.