Closed fracture of the radius with displacement. Symptoms and signs of a non-displaced radius fracture: how long to wear a cast and how to develop your arm after an injury

A fracture of the radius is the most common injury in the practice of a traumatologist and accounts for about 16-20% of all fractures. In 70% of cases, a violation of the integrity of this skeletal bone occurs in a typical place - in the distal part of the radius at a distance of 2-3 cm from the wrist joint. In this article, we will introduce you to the main causes, types and methods of assisting, diagnosing and treating fractures of the radius in a typical location. This knowledge will help you properly provide assistance when such injuries occur and ask your doctor any questions you may have.

Typical localization is determined by the anatomical and morphological structure of this section of the bone. It mainly consists of spongy bone tissue and, unlike the body (diaphysis), the bone has the thinnest cortical (superficial) layer. In addition, during falls, this area of ​​the bone bears the greatest load, and as a result, it cannot withstand such force and breaks.

According to statistics, such injuries occur more often in women after menopause or in older people, when the strength of bone tissue decreases.

Causes

Most often, such injuries occur when falling on an abducted arm.

Like all fractures, such injuries can be caused by traumatic or pathological reasons. The former happen more often.

Traumatic fractures of the radius in a typical location in the vast majority occur when falling on an abducted arm. Fractures of this part of the bone are especially common during icy conditions. A bone fracture can also be provoked by impacts of a different direction, received during falls, road traffic accidents, playing sports, or working with industrial or agricultural machinery. Particularly severe comminuted fractures of the radius are observed in equipment-related injuries. In some cases, injury to this bone occurs due to gunshot wounds. Such fractures are also severe and are accompanied by damage to soft tissues, blood vessels, nerves and the appearance of a significant bone defect, expressed in the absence of a section of bone in the area of ​​the fracture.

Pathological injuries to the radius occur when a slight force is applied to bone tissue, the density of which becomes reduced due to any disease. The causes of such injuries may be endocrine and metabolic disorders or the presence of a primary malignant bone tumor or metastases to bone tissue. Most often, pathological fractures occur with osteoporosis or.

Types of radius fractures in a typical location

Traumatologists distinguish two main types of radial bone fractures in a typical location:

1. Colles' fracture (or flexion fracture). Such an injury was first described by the Irish anatomist and surgeon Abraham Colles in 1814. With such a fracture, hyperextension of the wrist joint occurs, leading to disruption of the integrity of the bone and displacement of its fragment to the back of the surface of the forearm. As a rule, such injuries are caused by a fall on an open palm and are observed in 2/3 of cases.
2. Smith's fracture (or extension fracture). This type of injury was first described in 1847 by Robert Smith. This fracture is the mirror opposite of a Colles fracture, because when fractured, the fragment is displaced to the outside of the forearm. These injuries occur when a person falls on the back of the wrist.

Like all fractures, they can be open or closed. Closed fractures of the radius occur more often in a typical location. With open injuries, various external defects are added to the general symptoms: the presence of a wound, bleeding, visible bone fragments.

Symptoms

Main symptom of this pathology - sharp pain in the area of ​​injury.

The nature of symptoms for fractures of the radius in a typical location is the same as for violations of the integrity of other tubular bones. Their occurrence is provoked by a violation of the integrity of bone tissue, bone displacements and damage to surrounding soft tissues. The clinical picture of such injuries is aggravated by damage to nerves and blood vessels.

Pain

When the radius is fractured, severe and acute pain occurs in a typical location in the area of ​​injury. It becomes more intense when you try to probe or move. Painful sensations are caused by damage to the highly innervated periosteum, soft tissues and the release of inflammatory mediators into the blood.

Swelling and redness

Redness and swelling appear in the area of ​​the fracture, as the injury provokes inflammatory process and bleeding. The limb at the fracture site increases in volume.

Pathological mobility

At the site of the bone fracture, pathological mobility appears: dorsal or palmar flexion of the hand. It occurs due to dysfunction of the wrist joint.

Crepitus

When trying to probe the area of ​​bone fracture, the fragments rub against each other and make a characteristic crunching sound. It is not recommended to perform such actions on your own, since palpation by a person without medical education can cause additional injury to surrounding tissues.

Shortening the injured arm

The displacement of fragments leads to a visual shortening of the arm. In most cases, with isolated fractures of the radius, such a change in arm length is not observed, because the entire forearm is supported by the ulna, but deviation of the forearm towards the radius may occur.

Deformity in the area of ​​injury

The displacement of bone fragments leads to the formation of a pathological relief, and the wrist joint is deformed.

Nerve damage

In some cases, fractures cause injury to the nerves of the forearm and/or hand. Such damage leads to decreased sensitivity in these areas of the hand.

Damage to blood vessels

If, when the radius is fractured, the vessels of the forearm rupture, then the victim experiences paleness of the fingers, coldness and numbness of the hand. If the radial artery, where the pulse is felt, is damaged or compressed, the pulsation of the artery is not felt. In addition, injury to this vessel leads to arterial or venous bleeding and decreased blood pressure.

First aid

For fractures of the radius, first aid should be aimed at eliminating pain, treating the wound (if there is one) and immobilizing the arm to prevent aggravation of the injury. The need to call an ambulance arises in the following cases:

• falling from a great height;
• open fracture;
• presence of polytrauma or suspected damage internal organs;
• paleness or coldness of the hand;
• decreased or absent sensation in the fingers;
• lack of pulse in the wrist;
• open fracture of two forearm bones with massive soft tissue damage.

In the absence of these signs and there is nearby medical institution victim after treatment first aid can independently reach the emergency room or hospital.

First aid includes the following measures:

1. Calm the victim and let him take a painkiller (Analgin, Ketonal, Dexalgin, Ibuprofen, etc.).
2. In the presence of open wound treat it with an antiseptic solution and apply a bandage with a sterile bandage.
3. If there is arterial bleeding, manifested by a gushing stream of scarlet blood from the wound, apply a tourniquet to the lower third of the shoulder. It is tightened until the pulse disappears or bleeding occurs. Be sure to attach a note to the tourniquet indicating the time of application. In the absence of medical assistance for a long time, loosen the tourniquet for 2 minutes every 2 hours to prevent bleeding of the hand.
4. In the presence of venous bleeding, manifested by the appearance of a large amount of dark oozing blood, apply a pressure bandage to the wound.
5. Immobilize the hand by first removing all rings, bracelets, watches, etc. Jewelry is removed to prevent further compression of the tissue as swelling develops. To immobilize the arm, try to bend the elbow at a right angle and bring it towards the body. If such movement does not cause pain, then the limb can be fixed in this position. If painful sensations appear, then the hand must be provided with maximum rest. With fractures in a typical location, the pain is in many cases most intense when turning the hand with the palmar surface down. Immobilization is carried out using a Kramer splint, which can be replaced with improvised means: a long stick, a board, a piece of thick cardboard, etc. The splint is applied to the elbow and wrist joints and eliminates their further mobility. After this, it is tightly bandaged. After immobilization is completed, you should feel the pulse on the radial artery and make sure that the artery is not compressed with bandages.
6. Apply ice to the injury site, removing it for 2 minutes every 10 minutes to prevent frostbite.

Which doctor should I contact?

If you suspect a fracture of the radius, you should immediately consult an orthopedist. To clarify the diagnosis and determine treatment tactics, the doctor may prescribe radiography, angiography, CT or MRI.

Diagnostics

Fracture of the radius on x-ray.

After interviewing and examining the patient, the doctor conducts a series of examinations that allow you to assess the consequences of the injury:

• skin color - the appearance of pallor and coldness indicates damage to blood vessels, and cyanosis - a violation of the integrity of the veins;
• the presence of a pulse - the absence of pulsation in the radial artery indicates its compression or damage;
• condition of the median nerve - the inability to form the index and thumb into the “OK” gesture and the appearance of sensory disturbances on 1-3 fingers on the side of the palm indicates damage to this nerve;
• condition of the ulnar nerve - the inability to unclench the fingers with little resistance and the appearance of sensory disturbances in 4-5 fingers indicates damage to this nerve;
• the condition of the radial nerve - the inability to extend the fingers dorsally with little resistance and the appearance of sensory disturbances on the back of the first three fingers indicates damage to this nerve.

To confirm the diagnosis and clarify all clinical data about the fracture, a x-ray examination. If necessary, angiography is performed - radiography with the introduction of contrast. If diagnosis is difficult, a CT scan is performed.

If it is impossible to perform angiography and a detailed study of the condition of the vessels and nerves is necessary, MRI is prescribed. Ultrasound is performed in in rare cases(for example, to identify blood collections).

Treatment

The choice of treatment tactics for a fracture of the radius in a typical location depends on various factors and is determined by the doctor individually. For open fractures and surgical treatment, the patient is prescribed antibiotic therapy and vaccinated against tetanus.

Conservative therapy

If there is no displacement, an immobilizing bandage of plaster or polymer materials, which ensures proper fusion and prevents displacement.

If the injury is accompanied by displacement of fragments, then closed reduction is performed before applying a fixing plaster splint. This manipulation is performed under local anesthesia. After a few days, when the period of swelling passes, an immobilizing bandage made of plaster or polymer materials is applied.

The duration of immobilization depends on many factors. As a rule, on average it lasts 4-5 weeks. When repositioning, it may be necessary to take control x-rays on days 10, 21 and 20 after applying the plaster. Such measures make it possible to identify and eliminate repeated displacement through a new reposition or surgery in a timely manner.

After an injury, the patient is recommended to have an elevated position of the arm, and painkillers and medications are prescribed to speed up the healing of the fracture. After 4-5 weeks, the immobilizing bandage is removed and a rehabilitation program is drawn up for the patient.

Surgery

In some cases, displacement of fragments can only be eliminated by closed reduction in combination with percutaneous fixation with pins or surgery.

Percutaneous pin fixation

First after securing local anesthesia The doctor performs closed reduction. Depending on the nature of the injury, needles are passed through some fragments in the required directions. After this, a bandage is applied to immobilize the arm.

Advantages of the method:

• minimally invasive;
• availability;
• no incisions or scars.

Disadvantages of the method:

• the presence of the ends of the spokes above the skin;
• high risk of infection;
• long-term wearing of an immobilizing bandage (about 4 weeks);
• impossibility early start joint development and a high risk of developing irreversible contractures.

Osteosynthesis

Such surgical operations are carried out under general anesthesia. After making an incision and accessing the fracture area, the surgeon moves the nerves and vessels aside and begins to compare the fragments. To fix them in the position required for fusion, titanium devices are used: plates and screws. After this, the wound is sutured.

Osteosynthesis allows for accurate and reliable comparison of fragments; as a result, there is no need to wear an immobilizing bandage. After such operations, the patient can begin early development of the wrist joint.

External fixation devices

This method of fixation of bone fragments is in most cases used in open fractures that are considered conditionally infected or in the presence of contraindications for performing osteosynthesis. The operation to apply external fixation devices should take place within the first 6-8 hours after the fracture.

Before the intervention, the wound and bone are thoroughly washed with antiseptic solutions. After anesthesia, the wound is sutured and the device is installed. It should be worn for 4-6 weeks.

Such operations are minimally invasive and do not require large incisions (all manipulations are performed through small punctures). The disadvantages of the method of installing an external fixation device include the high cost of such devices, the presence of the ends of the wires above the skin and the high risk of infection in these areas, the impossibility of starting early development of the joint and the risk of developing irreversible contractures.

Possible complications

With fractures of the radius, complications can be immediate and long-term.

Immediate complications include:

• injury or rupture of nerves - lead to loss of sensitivity and movement disorders;
• – leads to partial or complete impossibility of finger movements;
• trauma to large vessels - leads to hemorrhages and the development of long-term complications;
• tight swelling of Turner's hand - leads to immobility of the fingers and the appearance of severe pain.

Long-term complications include:

• improper fusion of fragments - occurs with improper reposition or immobilization and undetected repeated displacements;
• chronic osteomyelitis - occurs when bone tissue becomes infected;
• ischemic contracture - occurs when an immobilizing bandage is incorrectly applied, which compresses the blood vessels, leads to the formation of adhesions and disruption of the movements of the joints of the hand;
• hemarthrosis - the accumulation of blood in the joint causes the formation of a fibrin clot, which subsequently “solders” the articular surfaces and leads to the inability to flex the damaged joint.

Rehabilitation

In most cases the duration recovery period for fractures of the radius is about 1.5-2 months. The duration of rehabilitation may depend on the age of the patient, the severity of the injury, the presence of complications or diseases that interfere with the fusion of bone tissue. The following conditions may complicate recovery:

• infectious lesions of soft tissues and bones;
• elderly age;
• osteoporosis;
• kidney and liver diseases;
• hormonal disorders;
• the presence of cancerous tumors;
• taking hormonal drugs;
• taking cytostatics;
• taking immune suppressants.

To more quickly restore all functions of the joints, the patient is recommended to undergo physiotherapy, massage courses and therapeutic exercises. In addition, all patients with such fractures are recommended to introduce foods high in calcium or calcium supplements into their diet.

After fractures of the radius, the following physiotherapeutic procedures may be prescribed:

• UV irradiation;
• warming up with a heating pad;
• electrophoresis with calcium preparations;
• low frequency magnetic therapy;
• ultra-high frequency electromagnetic field.

The timing of the start of therapeutic exercises is determined by the doctor depending on the severity of the injury. With conservative treatment, finger development exercises are usually prescribed 3-5 days after the injury (after the swelling subsides). They should start with passive movements. To do this, you should take a finger in your healthy hand and gently bend it in different joints - this way all the fingers of the injured hand except the thumb are stretched.

In parallel with passive exercises, you can begin to perform active movements in the elbow and shoulder joint. To do this you need to raise and lower your hand. Such exercises should be done twice a day 3-5 times. Gradually the load should increase.

After 7 days, active movements can be allowed - the patient performs the movements himself (without the help of his healthy hand). In this case, the load should be dosed and uniform, and if pain or swelling appears, gymnastics should be stopped for a while.

If after 3-4 weeks active finger movements do not cause pain or swelling, then you can begin to increase the load. To do this, you can take a piece of plasticine and knead it in your fist several times a day. After removing the immobilizing bandage, you can begin exercises with an expander. They should be carried out for 5-7 minutes three times a day.

Fractures of the radius in a typical location are common injuries and require a detailed examination of the victim to identify possible damage nerves and blood vessels. Both conservative and surgical techniques. After completion of therapy, the patient is recommended a rehabilitation program to maximize the restoration of all joints of the hand.

You follow with a sympathetic glance a passer-by you meet on the street with a cast on your arm, and sometimes a thought flashes through your head: fracture of the radius, poor fellow, unlucky.

Do we ever think about how realistic it is to get a fracture of the radius bone of the arm in the hustle and bustle of everyday life?

People say: “If I had known where to fall, I would have laid out straws.”

The most common fracture of the radius is in a typical location. It is localized in the lower third of the radius. Paired with the elbow it is integral part forearms. According to statistics, a fracture of the wrist joint accounts for about 16% of this type of injury.

How likely is it to get a radius fracture in a typical location?

Anyone can face this problem. Elderly people and children are especially at risk.

Entering retirement age is characterized by a slowdown in metabolism and depletion of the human body's resources. Microelements and vitamins supplied with food are absorbed differently than in youth. Bone fragility occurs. Female population in menopause and postmenopausal women are at risk of developing osteoporosis. The disease leads to bone thinning and loss of calcium.

Children under 10 years of age are in the period of active formation of the bone skeleton. Their bones are still thin and weak. But the periosteum is a fairly strong cartilage that can, if a fracture occurs, radial joint, firmly hold the broken bone. It happens that a child, being in an excited state during outdoor games, will not notice the injury. And in the evening the temperature will rise, perspiration will appear, an unusual pallor will appear, the unnatural shape of the palm of your beloved child will appear. This is a “green twig” fracture—the arm looks like a broken twig.

A forearm fracture can happen suddenly.

The injury occurs as a result of a fall. A person, having lost his balance, reflexively throws his hand forward. The impact of the whole body falls on the wrist joint.

In car accidents, damage to the beam occurs due to strong external pressure. At the slightest jolt of the car, the passenger instinctively throws his arms forward - there is a real chance of getting a compression fracture.

Based on the type of displacement of fragments, two types of fractures are distinguished:

- flexion(wheels);

- extensor(Smith).

According to the nature of their direction - to the palm or back of the hand.

Other classification by type of wound:

• When closed, the wound surface is reliably hidden by the skin, there is no risk of infection.
• An open fracture of the wrist joint is dangerous: the surface of the wound is infected, and the threat of blood loss is real.

Causes of radius injury

• unsteady gait;
• children and old age;
• sports (skiing, skating, cycling);
• work injury;
• car accidents;
• ice

The fall resulted in pain in the arm. The victim did not pay attention, and by the evening the pain intensified. The hand is tied with a grandmother's scarf. Sincere hope: the morning is wiser than the evening, inspires optimism. In vain. It doesn't go away by morning. Injured.

You will have to undergo an X-ray examination. With its help, the doctor will make a diagnosis. Good luck if an open fracture does not occur, because it is much more difficult to treat: the protruding bone forms a wound surface, provoking unbearable pain. With an open fracture, there is a high probability of tendon damage. The nature of the damage will become known after an x-ray.

Types of radius fractures

To the open and closed we already know, we should add:

• primary open – the skin is damaged on the outside of the bone;
• secondary open – damage to the skin from the inside;
• intra-articular (damaged joint);
• extra-articular (only the bone itself is affected);
• comminuted, the most complex, the bone is literally crushed.

Does the image indicate damage to the joint? In order to study in detail the nature of the injury, the doctor will prescribe a two-plane X-ray examination or magnetic resonance imaging.

What symptoms indicate a serious upper extremity injury?

• Emergence acute pain immediately after the fall.
• With rest, the pain goes away, but you can’t move your arm.
• Attempts to lift, bend, straighten the arm, or move it to the side cause unbearable pain.
• Swelling of a limb can happen right before your eyes.
• A large vessel is damaged - a hematoma or bruise occurs.
• Careful palpation of the bruised surface produces a characteristic sound - crepitus (as if snow crunches underfoot).
• The child’s blood pressure and temperature often rise, and sudden fainting is possible. To avoid loss of consciousness, a cotton swab dipped in ammonia and carefully brought at a short distance to the baby’s nose will help.

Treatment consists of three stages:

• first aid provided before the doctor arrived;
• examination by a specialist, qualification of injury, treatment;
• course of rehabilitation measures.

First aid to the victim

Everyone should know how to provide first aid. A person who finds himself in a tragic situation needs real help, and not just in sympathy. Therefore, you need to be fully prepared.

• First of all, it is important to treat the skin areas adjacent to the wound with an antiseptic.
• When bleeding is determined, its type is determined: arterial or venous. With a venous tourniquet, the tourniquet is applied below the wound, with an arterial tourniquet - above. Arterial bleeding will be signaled by scarlet blood pushed out by pulsating fountains. It threatens rapid blood loss. After applying a tourniquet, the wounded limb is completely immobilized with a splint. An injection of pain medication is given and ice is applied to the injured area.

First aid for closed fracture consists of immobilizing the injured upper limb. A stick, board, or piece of hard plastic will be useful as a tire. The main thing is motionless fixation from the middle of the shoulder to the base of the fingers. It is permissible to bend the injured arm at the elbow, securing it with a scarf tied around the neck.

Fracture treatment

The doctor will provide professional help: will refer you for an x-ray, begin treatment.

If a non-displaced fracture of the radius is diagnosed, a conservative treatment method is indicated. The patient's arm is fixed using a plaster cast. It is worth being patient, the plaster should fix the damaged limb for 1.5 – 2 months. During this time, a bone callus will form at the site of the breakdown. In the first days after applying the plaster, the patient must monitor his hand. If swelling, blue discoloration, tingling in the fingers, or numbness appear on the visible part of the hand, consult a doctor immediately. More likely, gypsum bandage too tight and needs to be replaced. This must be done in order to prevent such unforeseen and dangerous consequences such as necrosis (death of tissue), tight Turner's edema (leading to immobility of the limb in the future), the formation of blood clots that threaten problems for the entire body.

When diagnosing multiple fragments, the task of the traumatologist is to install and secure them. In this case, the number of fragments and their sizes are important.

The doctor begins to install in place the fragments of the beam discovered as a result of the x-ray; in medical terms, he carries out a reposition. The task of a professional is to give the broken pieces the correct position. The callus formed during treatment must fit into the anatomical structure of the limb.

Reposition can be carried out in two ways: closed or open. With the closed method, the doctor performs a one-step reposition: he stretches the victim’s upper limb, setting the fragments with his hands.

The open nature of the injury requires urgent surgical treatment, because the patient experiences painful shock.

An infected wound must be treated in an operating room. The traumatologist carries out antiseptic and aseptic measures and installs fragments. If the bone is severely fragmented, surgery is performed using an open reduction method. The installed fragments are fixed with special knitting needles. It is important to carry out step-by-step accurate installation and fastening of fragments. Otherwise, the improperly fused bone will become deformed and damage cartilage tissue, will lead to arthrosis. The doctor's skill and time will do their job.

At the final stage surgical intervention An external fixation device is placed.

This type of immobilization, used since the middle of the last century, has proven itself well. The mechanism holds bone fragments using knitting needles threaded through the victim’s skin and attached to a cylindrical apparatus. The knitting needles provide reliable fixation. Scientifically speaking, this design is a guarantor of effective compression-distraction osteosynthesis. Despite all the advantages, there remains a risk of infection, which is determined by the method of installation of the device. There are several similar designs; they are popular among traumatologists.

The obvious advantages of this method are that the mechanism is attached for 4-6 weeks. Enough a short time, taking into account the nature of the injuries for which it is used. The method is low-traumatic and does not require a large incision (installation occurs through skin punctures). There are disadvantages: quite expensive, the needles passing through the surface of the skin can be an entry point for infection. As you know, any operation carries risks, and the doctor’s task is to reduce them to a minimum.

After removal of the external fixation device, the third treatment period begins. Now everything will depend on the patient, his will, desires

The forearm (the area of ​​the arm from the elbow to the beginning of the hand) consists of two bones of similar structure (in Latin, ulna - ulna, radius - radius). The bones of the human forearm often become a buffer during a blow or fall, so the likelihood of injury is very high.

As practice shows, due to less dense bone tissue, women suffer from fractures in this area more often than men. Risk groups include menopausal women (over 50 years old) and children (under 10 years old).

Concomitant injuries in case of injury to the radius:

• dislocations of adjacent bones;
• ligament ruptures;
• damage ulna.

Where is the radius bone located?

In the forearm area, radius is the closest “neighbor” of the ulna. Therefore, they are interconnected and dependent on each other.

If the palm is turned back when the arm is raised, they are both parallel, but when the palm is turned in the other direction, the bones “cross”. The beam partially rotates around the ulna, which provides rotation ability (pronation) and rotation ability (supination).

In addition, where the radius bone is located in position can be determined by thumb hands.

Causes of injury

To get a fracture of the bone of the wrist joint, which is reinforced by displacement, sometimes it is enough to accidentally fall on it with your weight. In some cases, this happens out of the blue, perhaps due to ice or when riding a bicycle.

Sometimes such injuries are diagnosed after being involved in a traffic accident, in more rare cases - when something falls heavy object to the elbow joint.

A comminuted fracture can occur during an injury at work involving heavy machinery, as well as during serious construction work.

People who have weak bones and a calcium deficiency are particularly at risk. Those who suffer from osteoporosis are most likely to suffer such injuries. Also, calcium levels in the body are often reduced in older people or pregnant women.

The radius itself appears to be a fairly solid formation that is not so easy to break. However, this happens in cases where the external force is significant, and the bone is weaker in strength. This is possible in the following situations:

• in case of road and railway tragedies;
• when dropped onto hard ground;
• when there is a significant impact directly on the area of ​​the radius.

Such a nuisance as a fracture of the radius is possible as a result of an unsuccessful landing on a straight arm. IN at a young age such misfortunes occur more often in men, since they perform heavy work more often physical work, take part in sports competitions.

After 40-45 years, this ratio changes in the female direction. This is facilitated by osteoporosis (loss of calcium in the bones), which affects the female body during menopause.

Displaced arm fractures are quite common these days. It is easy to determine even by clinical symptoms. Severe pain, impaired mobility of the upper limb, severe swelling - typical symptoms pathology.

An incomplete fracture in the area of ​​the radius is a consequence of a fall on a straight arm or injury to the hand during an accident. Injuries often occur in healthy young people during active sports, including extreme sports.

Classification

Most often, treatment for a fracture of the wrist joint in the elbow area is carried out in women or in the elderly. They can be divided into two types:

• flexion;
• extensor

These types differ in which side is subject to the greatest pressure. When there is a flexion fracture of the wrist joint, the fragment goes into the area of ​​the palmar surface. In case of an extensor type injury, the fragment is deflected towards the forearm, towards its dorsal area.

A comminuted fracture is diagnosed when a bone is broken into three or more fragments. If displacement is added to such an injury, it complicates the situation much more.

Comminuted fracture with improper treatment may lead to loss of limb mobility or improper functioning.

Both types of injuries may differ in what exercises and physical therapy are used for rehabilitation.

Displaced fractures can be either open or closed.

Traumatologists distinguish three types of damage to areas of the radius:

• Smith's fracture. The cause of the negative condition is the effect on the back of the hand. With this type of injury, the distal fragment moves towards the surface of the palm;
• distal fracture. The damage in most cases affects the area two to three centimeters from the wrist joint;
• Colles' fracture. More than half of patients consult a traumatologist with this type of injury. In a Colles fracture, the broken fragment of the distal part moves to the dorsum of the forearm.

With severe trauma, a comminuted fracture develops. In this type of beam injury, the broken bone is divided into 3 or more fragments.

A beam fracture occurs:

• extra-articular;
• intra-articular.

Based on the degree of skin damage, there are:

• primary open fracture (the integrity of the skin from the outside to the radius is broken);
• secondary open fracture (a broken bone damages the skin from the inside).

Important! Any type of open fracture requires immediate medical attention due to the high risk of improper bone healing and wound infection.

In adults and children, ray fractures have a general classification:

1. Intra-articular. An injury that directly damages the wrist joint.
2. Extra-articular. The joint remains unharmed;
3. Closed bone fractures. The breakdown is hidden under the skin. There is no visible rupture, the integrity of the muscles and ligaments is not compromised. A closed fracture of the radius is the safest type of fracture of the hand for the victim.
4. Open. Very dangerous look injuries. The danger is that the skin and soft fabrics are torn, contamination can get into the wound at any time, and as a result cause serious infection.
5. Comminuted fracture. The radius is damaged in more than two places. It often occurs when there is strong compression of a limb on both sides. Ultimately, the bone breaks into many small fragments, which in turn severely damage nearby tissue.
6. Fracture with and without displacement (crack).

Symptoms

The main symptoms of a wrist fracture are very similar to a dislocation or other wrist injury. Depending on the physiological characteristics and the complexity of the injury, the pain from such a fracture may not be pronounced, so some do not immediately seek medical help.

The main symptoms of a wrist fracture are:

Signs that you have broken your radius vary depending on the type of injury.

Basically the signs are:

1. The upper limb begins to swell.
2. Painful sensations when palpated.
3. The elbow joint is damaged, which means the pain intensifies.
4. Increasing pain.
5. The bones crunch when you move the radial carpus.
6. Bruises appear.
7. Joint pain.

Another symptom that a limb is broken may be coldness; this happens due to the fact that the blood supply is disrupted. After all, during a fracture there is a large loss of blood, which leads to loss of consciousness.

A fracture of the radius can be identified by several signs:

The insidiousness of a closed fracture of the radius without displacement is in the rather weak manifestation of signs of injury. Working capacity is preserved, the patient often does not attach importance to the symptoms, which indicate not a dislocation or sprain of the ligaments, but a dangerous damage to the bone tissue.

A person relies on lotions, compresses, homemade and pharmaceutical ointments, waiting for the “dislocation” to go away. Traumatologists often see patients who untimely seek help with damage to the radius.

When damaged, a crunching sound is clearly heard - this is a 100% fracture. A clear signal that the resulting injury will be displaced is an externally visible deformation of the shape of the hand, accompanied by swelling or bruising.

The arm hurts a lot, and with the slightest attempt to change its position, the pain intensifies significantly.

Diagnostics

To accurately confirm the diagnosis and prescribe correct treatment, it is important to take an x-ray. Also, in some cases, a procedure may be required that involves moving the displaced bone fragments back into place. After this, standard treatment can be applied.

First actions

First of all, it is important to immobilize the injured limb. This will help avoid further injury and make treatment easier. You can immediately apply a splint from available materials. The hand needs to be suspended on a bandage.

For open fractures, first of all, it is important to treat the affected area with an antiseptic, then apply a bandage. This will help eliminate the possibility of any infection.

To make rehabilitation after a fracture of the radius faster, a cold bandage can be applied to the affected area in the first hours after the injury. This compress must be used for 15-20 minutes, then the bandage must be removed.

The procedure can be repeated, paying attention not only to the area of ​​injury itself, but also to the elbow area.

Treatment procedure

After first aid has been provided to the victim, it is necessary to go to the trauma center, where specialists will prescribe further necessary treatment, apply a plaster cast, and also recommend suitable exercises and physical therapy (physical therapy).

Comminuted fractures in the elbow area require proper connection of bone fragments. How this event will take place depends on the results of the x-ray examination.

In some cases, a plaster cast on the elbow area is applied only a few days after reduction.

Only in rare cases is surgery required. However, it can be called effective only in the first weeks after receiving a fracture.

distinguish a fracture from a bruise

After collecting an anamnesis, an X-ray examination is required, taking into account the relationship of the styloid processes of the ulna and radius. In case of a fracture without displacement, a line drawn through the processes forms an angle of about 15 -20° with the longitudinal axis of the injured forearm.

When shifted, this angle can decrease to almost 0 or even become negative.

Examination of the patient using modern equipment will help confirm or refute the suspicion of a closed fracture in the area of ​​the radius. First, the doctor examines the problem area, finds out the patient’s complaints (what is the nature, intensity of the pain), then sends for radiography (required, two projections).

The full picture of the injury is visible after magnetic resonance imaging. In the photographs, the doctor will examine all areas of the problem joint and see the damage to the soft tissues.

Treatment

Forearm injuries are the most common injuries. The forearm consists of the ulna and radius bones. At the top they are directed at the elbow, at the bottom at the wrist. The ulna goes to the little finger, and the radius goes to the thumb.

A fracture of the arm is a consequence of a fall on an outstretched arm.

Injuries associated with a fracture of the radius:

• fracture of the ulna;
• dislocation of adjacent bones;
• ligament ruptures.

It is these injuries that make up a quarter of the total number of arm bone fractures and 90% of forearm bone fractures. In women, fractures of the radius in the “typical location” are 2 times more common than in men. The reason for this is the lower bone density of the female body.

Most often, radial fractures in a “typical location” occur in women of menopausal age and in children under 10 years of age.

Possible causes of fractures

Among the most common causes of fractures of the radius of the arm are the following:

• falling on an outstretched arm;
• osteoporosis – increased fragility of bones, especially under loads and impacts, is typical for people over 60 years of age;
• car accident;
• falling from a bicycle;
• injuries at work, etc.

A fracture of the radius in a typical location is the most common fracture of the bones of the upper limb.

It's connected with anatomical structure bone, which is thinner in some places. Accordingly, in these places it breaks more easily.

There are 2 types of damage:

1. Wheel fracture - a fragment of the radius bone is shifted to the back of the forearm. It bears the name of the surgeon who first described this type of fracture. This type of fracture is also called an extension fracture.
2. The Smith fracture is the opposite of the Wheel fracture. The shift occurs towards the palm. A similar case was first described by a doctor in 1847. It is called flexion.

It is especially important to know the first signs of a rib fracture. It is this fracture that most often ends in damage to internal organs. Read our article for details.

Timely first aid for a clavicle fracture determines the overall success of treatment and subsequent rehabilitation. Details can be found here.

Other types of beam damage

Other types of fractures include:

• intra-articular - the fracture line covers the wrist joint;
• extra-articular - does not cover the joint area;
• open is accompanied by skin damage;
• closed fracture of the radius;
• radial neck fracture;
• comminuted – the bone is broken into 3 or more parts;
• primary open - skin damage is observed outside the bone;
• secondary open – damage to the skin from the inside.

An open fracture requires urgent medical intervention due to the risk of infection and the prevention of complications during the healing period.

The classification of fractures is important due to the fact that the method of its treatment depends on the type of fracture.

What happens during a fracture

Symptoms of a radius fracture:

• pain in the joint, which intensifies when moving the hand;
• stiffness of movements;
• edema;
• hemorrhage in the joint;
• swelling in the area of ​​the shoulder joint.

Diagnostic methods

Such fractures are clinically weakly expressed, so the final diagnosis is made after studying x-ray. In addition, it is necessary to consider whether the radial fracture is combined with an ulnar fracture or dislocation.

Types of diagnostics

The main diagnostic methods include:

1. Conventional radiography in 2 projections is the most popular and available method diagnosing fractures.
2. Computed tomography – useful in intra-articular fractures to assess alignment articular surface. In the period after surgery, it provides accurate information about bone fusion.
3. Magnetic resonance imaging is used to diagnose complex fractures and combinations of several fractures.

Treatment and first aid

Treatment for a fracture of the radius should begin with first aid. Timely first aid is the key to overall success in treatment.

First aid for a fracture

Professional first aid and immediate medical attention are the basis of competent treatment and a prerequisite for restoring all functions of the hand.

In case of a closed fracture, it is necessary to immobilize the injured limb using a hard splint or other available means. The splint is applied from the middle of the shoulder to the base of the fingers.

The hand is bent at a right angle and placed in a scarf tied around the neck. You can reduce pain by injecting analgin or applying ice to the site of injury.

In case of an open fracture, it is necessary to stop the bleeding, disinfect the wound and apply a clean bandage. To prevent blood loss during arterial bleeding, you need to apply a tourniquet to the middle of the shoulder.

The securing bandage is the same as for a closed fracture. Ice will help relieve swelling.

The photo shows a fracture of the radius bone of the arm

Healing procedures

To properly treat a fracture, you must first assess the nature of the damage, and only then choose a method.

The main goal of treating a fracture is to return the injured limb, and therefore the person, to its previous level of functioning.

There are many treatment options.

Non-surgical treatment

Fractures of the radius without displacement are fixed with plaster or a polymer bandage. If the fracture of the radius is displaced, then the parts of the bone are placed in the correct position and fixed until healing.

If not treated in a timely manner, there is a risk of developing arthrosis of the joint and loss of hand mobility.

The limb will remain immobile for 4-5 weeks.

Then the doctor writes out a referral for exercise therapy, where after a fracture of the radius the joint undergoes the necessary rehabilitation.

Surgical treatment

Surgery for a fracture of the radius is used if it is impossible to properly support the bone until healing with plaster. In this case, doctors perform fixation with pins through the skin or an operation called open reposition and fixation with pins through the skin, the most popular method of international medicine.

First, the doctor closes the displacement, then needles are inserted through the fragments in certain directions.

Negative points:

• the risk of wound contamination and infection instead of fracture due to the presence of needles above the skin;
• long-term wearing of a plaster cast;
• risk of lack of movement in the joint due to late start development.

Open fracture reduction

An incision is made, the muscles and tendons are moved back, and the fragments are repositioned in the correct position. The bones are secured with metal plates.

In this case, wearing a cast is not required; the bones are in the correct position due to the plates.

External fixation devices

Indicated for wearing when the use of plates and screws is contraindicated. For all open fractures, the patient must be operated on as soon as possible, and the tissue around the fracture must be thoroughly disinfected. The wound is sutured and the device is attached for 4-6 weeks.

• the devices are expensive;
• risk of infection due to rods above the skin;
• uncomfortable dressings and wound treatment;
• risk of lack of dynamics in the articular joint.

Recovery after a fracture

The types of fractures of the radius are so different, as well as the methods of their treatment, then rehabilitation after a fracture of the radius is selected for each patient.

The arm grows together in 1.5 – 2 months.

In the first time after a fracture, UHF and ultrasound are used to relieve pain and swelling. Also, after a fracture of the radius, exercises are useful to restore blood flow and prevent muscle wasting.

If the patient was operated on using a plate, the doctor will prescribe exercise therapy for the joint 7 days after the operation.

At the end of the fusion period, the following restoration procedures are prescribed:

• physiotherapy;
• massage;
• phonophoresis.

After recovery, warm pine, pine-salt baths are useful.

It all depends on the patient. How stubbornly he himself is fighting to restore the mobility of his limb.

Possible complications

During non-surgical treatment using a plaster cast or polymer dressing, it is necessary to monitor the hand. See if there is swelling, if the fingers turn pale, and if sensitivity remains.

If the cast is tight, this is a sign that soft tissues and nerves are being compressed, which can lead to irreversible consequences. If you notice such sensations, you should immediately consult a specialist.

Preventive measures

The basis for preventing the formation of a fracture of the upper limb is:

• avoid various types injuries;
• falls from a height that can lead to this type of damage;
• treatment and prevention of osteoporosis.

Before the victim is examined by specialists, he must be given first aid. It consists of carrying out the following procedures:

1. Fixing the injured limb using a splint or improvised means.
2. Mandatory treatment of the wound with an antiseptic solution for an open fracture.
3. Apply a cold compress to the fracture area for 20 minutes.
4. Seeking professional help.

In a medical institution, before treatment (to assess the nature of the damage), an x-ray is taken. If the image shows a displaced fracture, then the damaged bone fragments should be accurately joined. To carry out reposition, the fragments are corrected using special devices.

This must be done under local anesthesia. At the end of the procedure, a splint bandage is applied to the forearm.

Sometimes it is not possible to perform a reduction manually. In such cases, surgery or closed reposition of the fragments is performed through skin using knitting needles.

In other cases, external fixation devices (plates and screws) are used. If no displacement has occurred, then simply apply plaster.

They wear it for several weeks.

Methods conservative treatment most appropriate when children are injured. To prevent displacement, it is necessary to monitor the fusion of bone tissue using regular fluoroscopy.

When the radius is fractured, the function of the forearm is significantly impaired, so such an injury is considered a relatively severe injury.

A fracture of the radius is not in all cases eliminated by immediate reduction. Then the patients are transferred to the hospital for surgical treatment.

The cause of a fracture of the radius in a typical location in 90% of cases is a fall on an outstretched arm. In this case, most often the styloid process of the ulna, scaphoid, and lunate bones are simultaneously affected, and ruptures of the radiocarpal and radioulnar ligaments occur.

To restore full function of the forearm, it is first necessary to reconstruct the distal radioulnar articular surfaces.

Symptoms of a fracture

Symptoms of a radius fracture in a typical location:

• pain,
• edema,
• bayonet-shaped deformity of the forearm.

An x-ray of the wrist joint is required in two projections. The severity of the fracture is characterized by the degree of displacement of fragments, the number of fragments and associated acquired injuries.

Fracture of the radius and treatment is anatomical reposition and stable fixation of fragments, in order to restore painless and precise movements of the hand and fingers.

Usually, when there is no displacement of fragments for a month, a plaster splint is made, and the ability to work returns in a month and a half.

Treatment of a radius fracture

If displacement of the fragments is determined, anesthetic measures are carried out and manual reposition is performed, and immobilization is carried out using a plaster cast.

Mandatory radiography helps ensure the correct position of the fragments after correction. Analysis of the clinical picture and radiographs allows us to determine the final treatment plan.

The duration of immobilization ranges from a month to one and a half. During this period, usually a week later, a control X-ray examination is required.

Upon completion of immobilization, health-improving gymnastics and recovery after a fracture of the radius are prescribed, including movements in warm water, as well as massage.

Moreover, the most painless transition from immobility to constantly increasing load is provided by physical exercise in warm water.

Movements in water are made in large pelvis, into which both the hand and forearm should easily fit. The temperature should not exceed 350C.

The hand is immersed in water up to the middle of the shoulder, the hand should lie on the bottom with its edge. Bend and extend the hand up to six times. Touch the bottom with your palms, turning them up and down.

The elbow rests the sore arm on the bottom of the pelvis. Use your healthy hand to clasp the affected joint. With the help of such support, circular movements are carried out.

Among the therapeutic exercises there are exercises at the table. Placing the painful hand on a flat soft pad, abduct and adduct, bend and straighten the hand and make turns with the palm.

It is very useful to do handicrafts during the recovery period. Winding threads onto a ball, knitting and crocheting, sewing and embroidering, gluing envelopes, drawing and drawing.

Hand bone injuries are one of the most common injuries. This causes some discomfort and difficulty and requires a professional approach to treatment.

One of frequent violations- fracture of the radius with displacement. It is important to find out what first aid needs to be provided to the patient, as well as what exercises and exercise therapy to use for such a diagnosis.

Any treatment for wrist fractures should be under the supervision of a physician. This is especially true for displaced fractures.

When it occurs, small bone fragments may break off from the main bone, causing the limb to fail to heal properly and subsequently impair normal movement.

In some cases, a comminuted fracture of the ulnar area must be treated using surgical methods.

Treatment after an injury such as a fracture of the radius consists of stages that are inseparably interconnected:

Restoring the functionality of the hand after an injury mainly depends on the choice of the correct method of combating the disease and the qualifications of the traumatologist. Treatment of a fracture of the radius is often carried out conservatively (application of an immobilization bandage) and surgically (for a displaced or impacted fracture) in ways.

For achievement good effect in case of a fragment fracture, open (manual reduction of fragments) or closed (skin incision at the site of impact) reduction is performed, and osteosynthesis methods are also used.

Osteosynthesis techniques:

• knitting needles;
• plates;
• distraction devices.

It is important to provide first aid in a timely manner:

• Reduce pain.
• Provide rest to the affected area.
• Prevent damage to the soft tissue that surrounds the affected area.

If the fracture is closed, the limb is fixed. When the fracture is open, the bleeding is first stopped, after which a protective bandage is applied to the injured area. Then it is necessary to transport the victim to the hospital.

The traumatologist carefully examines the radius bone of the arm and determines that the victim has a dislocation or fracture. When a fracture is confirmed, the limb is immobilized to prevent bone displacement.

The goal of treatment for a fracture of the wrist bone is to restore the functional and anatomical integrity of the affected limb. Please note that the bone must not only grow together, the main thing is to maintain mobility and sensitivity in it.

To do this, you need to consult with a specialist in time and undergo the necessary course of therapy. Rehabilitation after an injury is important, so you can quickly restore the mobility of your hand.

Often, a displaced fracture of the radius results in minor damage. In this case, you can use conservative methods treatment. First of all, it is necessary to achieve the correct position of the bone fragments. After this, a plaster cast is applied to the injured arm.

First aid

First you need to immobilize the injured arm. For this purpose, you can use a tire.

The sore arm should be bent at a right angle and placed in a scarf.

Take off severe pain can be done by taking painkillers.

An ice compress is applied to the area of ​​the radius fracture. Due to the low temperature, blood vessels narrow.

This allows you to reduce the area of ​​the hematoma and prevent the spread of edema.

In case of an open fracture, measures must be taken to stop the bleeding.

A tourniquet is applied to the damaged artery and the wound is disinfected.

In details.

first aid rules for fractures

we have listed in the corresponding article.

The very first thing to do in a fracture situation is to completely immobilize the arm. This is done to prevent further displacement of bone fragments and to avoid damage to nearby tissues, nerves and tendons.

Every person can do this, even if he does not have a medical education. The main thing is not to be afraid.

If the injury is closed, the limb should be well fixed by applying a splint. Any flat and hard object can act as a fixation splint.

If an open fracture occurs and it is accompanied by heavy blood loss, then first it should be eliminated using a tourniquet, tightly rolled fabric, belt or rope.

Only after this we fix the hand with a splint. It should be applied from the middle of the shoulder to the base of the fingers.

Modern alternative to plaster and splints

Many people wonder how to hold their hand when the radius is fractured with displacement? The correct and safe position is above the waist, in a position bent at a right angle at the elbow, independently or by tying a wide scarf.

To reduce pain, you can apply something cooling for a short time. Having received such an injury, you should not hesitate to go to the emergency room.

It is best to seek qualified help within one to two hours after the incident. With an open fracture, you will most likely have to go to the hospital for some time.

Closed injury can be treated at home. The basic rule remains the same - impeccably follow all the instructions of the attending physician.

Massage, physiotherapy and procedures after a fracture

In order to increase blood circulation and relieve pain in a bruised area, it is prescribed massotherapy. In this case, pain-relieving gels are used and essential oils.

The massage begins from the shoulder, then goes down to the muscles of the elbow joint. And only after that they carefully begin to rub the area near the injury. Massage procedures should only be performed by a specialist.

Physiotherapeutic procedures are prescribed by the treating doctor in accordance with the type and degree of injury.

At first, in order to restore lymph and blood circulation and relieve swelling, it is recommended electromagnetic therapy. She is able to return in a short time injured hand sensitivity and ability to perform difficult tasks.

Warm compresses and mud packs are also useful for hand rehabilitation.

Drug treatment favors rapid recovery injured hand. Shilajit is usually used. It can be taken in tablet form. Shilajit-based ointments work great.

It should be realized that delayed and incorrect therapy leads to dire consequences in the future, which include limited mobility and the appearance of pain syndrome.

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A fracture of the radius of the arm is considered one of the most common injuries.

It accounts for almost 16% of all injuries sustained at home. It is especially common in women during menopause.

The first mentions of fracture can be found in ancient medical treatises of Egypt and China. Even then, ancient healers paid attention to this type of injury and made recommendations for the treatment and rehabilitation of victims.

Fracture of the radius in a typical location

Traumatologists have such a concept as “fracture of the ray in a typical place.” This is because the vast majority of fractures (almost 75%) occur in the distal part of the bone (closer to the hand).

Fracture of the middle and proximal (located closer to the elbow) part of the radius occurs in only 5% of cases.

There are two types:

• Smith, or flexor. It happens when a person falls on a hand bent towards the back of the forearm. As a result, the bone fragment of the radius is displaced towards outer surface forearms;
• Wheels, or extensor. Occurs when the victim falls on the palmar surface of the hand. As a result, hyperextension occurs in the wrist joint, and the bone fragment is displaced towards the dorsum of the forearm.

As can be seen from the description, Smith's fracture and Wheel's are mirror images of each other.

Classification of injury

Depending on the nature of occurrence:

• Pathological - occur not so much under the influence of mechanical force, but as a result of a decrease in bone mineral density. The disease, a clear manifestation of which is pathological fractures, is called osteoporosis;
• Traumatic. Occur as a result of the impact of any mechanical factor on the bone: impact, fall, twisting, excessive exercise stress and etc.

Depending on the violation of the integrity of the skin:

• Closed fracture of the radius of the arm, when the skin over the injury site is not damaged;
• Open. In this case, the integrity of the skin is broken, and bone fragments come out.

Depending on the fault line:

Any type of fracture can be with or without displacement of bone fragments.

There is also an anatomical classification:

• Fracture of the diaphysis (body) of the bone;
• Intra-articular fracture of the head and neck of the radius;
• Fracture of the styloid process.

Symptoms

The injury is accompanied by a fairly clear clinical picture. The main signs and symptoms of a broken arm are as follows:

First aid for a fracture of the radius of the arm

There are three fundamental steps that must be carried out when providing first aid. These include:

• Early immobilization (immobilization) of the injured limb;
• Adequate pain relief;
• Local exposure to cold;

Immobilization of an injured limb is the first step in first aid. Correct fixation of a limb performs several tasks at once:

• Minimizes additional bone displacement;
• Reduces the risk of soft tissue damage from fragments;
• Reduces pain.

Before immobilization, it is important to free your hand from rings, watches, bracelets, etc. Otherwise, they can cause compression of blood vessels and nerves. To give a fixed limb a physiological position, it must be bent at the elbow joint at an angle of 90 degrees and brought to the body, turning the hand upward.

To minimize pain, you can use drugs from NSAID groups (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). These include diclofenac, ibuprofen, ketonal, dexalgin, Celebrex, etc. The listed drugs can be taken in tablet form or as intravenous and intramuscular injections.

Local application of cold also reduces pain. In addition, under the influence of low temperature, vasoconstriction occurs and tissue swelling decreases.

Use cold for pain relief with caution so as not to cause frostbite. To do this, wrap heating pads or ice packs in a towel before use.

Diagnostics

Radiation diagnostic methods are the “gold standard” in the diagnosis of fractures. Most often in routine practice, radiography of the limb in two projections is used.

An X-ray will show not only the presence of a fracture, but also its nature, the presence of fragments, the type of displacement, etc. These data play a key role in choosing treatment tactics.

Sometimes traumatologists use computed tomography to diagnose complex injuries.

Treatment of radius fractures

Treatment tactics directly depend on the nature of the damage and are selected individually in each specific case.

In the case of a bone fracture in a typical location, treatment consists of closed reduction (“reassembly”) of the bone fragments and application of a plaster cast to prevent displacement. Typically the plaster cast covers the hand, forearm and lower third of the shoulder.

How long to wear a cast for a fracture of the radius of the arm? Immobilization lasts on average 4-5 weeks. Before removing the plaster cast, a control x-ray is required. This is necessary to assess the fusion of inert fragments.

Sometimes it may not be possible to treat an injury with a cast alone. Then resort to the following methods:

• Percutaneous fixation of fragments with knitting needles. The advantage of the method is its speed and low trauma. However, with this treatment it is impossible to begin early development of the wrist joint;
• Open reduction of bone fragments using metal structures. In this case, the surgeon makes an incision in the soft tissue, compares bone fragments and fixes them with a metal plate and screws.

Unfortunately, surgical methods have a number of negative points. First of all, there is the risk of wound infection. Therefore, after the operation it is necessary to take a course of antibiotics. wide range actions. Second drawback surgical treatment fractures requires a long period of rehabilitation.

Recovery time

The duration of the recovery period depends on the complexity of the injury and is, on average, 6-8 weeks. The duration of recovery is influenced by factors such as the scale of the operation, the speed of wound healing, the state of the immune system, the presence of bone diseases, etc.

Often, the recovery process after a fracture of the radius is delayed due to the fact that patients neglect doctors’ recommendations, in particular, they independently remove plaster casts ahead of schedule. This is fraught with a number of complications, which will be discussed below.

If, after removing the cast, your arm swells, this is a normal process; you can find out how to get rid of swelling after a broken arm.

Rehabilitation and how to develop an arm after a fracture of the radius

Rehabilitation after a fracture should be carried out comprehensively and include massage, physiotherapy, as well as physical therapy. The success of treatment largely depends on how responsibly a person approaches each of the listed activities.

Massage

You can begin the restoration of a limb with a massage. Correctly performed massage after a fracture of the radius has an analgesic effect, improves recovery processes, and also prevents muscle wasting.

Start with a shoulder massage, then work with elbow joint, and only after that they proceed to massage the areas around the injury. Finally, a hand massage is performed. The duration of the massage session is about 15 minutes.

Physiotherapy methods

Physiotherapy plays an important role in rehabilitation. Are used following procedures:

• Electrophoresis with calcium preparations. The essence of electrophoresis comes down to the slow directed movement of particles medicinal product deep into the tissues. Calcium increases bone mineral density and accelerates the healing of bone fragments;
• Low frequency magnetic therapy. Has an analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect;
• UHF method. This technique is aimed at warming up soft tissues. As a result, local metabolism improves, which accelerates regeneration;
• Ultraviolet radiation. Under the influence of ultraviolet radiation, vitamin D is produced, which is necessary for better absorption of calcium.

Exercise therapy classes

As a result of prolonged immobilization, muscles lose tone, which is fraught with the development of malnutrition. This is why timely initiation of exercise therapy for a fracture of the radius is so important. Classes should begin with the simplest exercises, for example, with alternate bending of fingers. The doctor will write out an exercise regimen on how to develop your arm after a fracture of the radius.

Exercises after a fracture of the radius should be performed carefully, without sudden movements.

It is important to carry out exercise therapy under the guidance of a specialist who will select a set of exercises in accordance with the patient’s physical capabilities and ensure that they are performed correctly.

Complications and possible consequences

They can be divided into two groups: immediate complications of injury and its long-term consequences.

Immediate complications of injury include:

• Damage to the nerve bundle (for example, rupture). It entails a violation of sensitivity (thermal, tactile, motor, etc.);
• Damage to the finger tendons, as a result of which the function of flexion or extension of the hand may be impaired;
• Damage to blood vessels with the formation of a hematoma;
• Partial or complete muscle rupture;
• Infectious complications (for example, infection joining the wound surface).

Long-term complications are not as common. These include osteomyelitis (purulent melting of bone), limb deformation due to improper fusion of bone fragments, and the formation of contractures.

Features of a fracture of the radius in a child

The structure of a child's bones is different from that of an adult. This is due to the presence of bone growth zones, better blood supply, as well as the characteristics of the periosteum - the membrane that covers the bones from the outside.

For childhood the formation of “green branch” type fractures is very typical, or subperiosteal fracture. Due to the fact that the periosteum in children is very flexible, it does not lose its integrity during injury.

When a bone falls or is hit, it bends, the convex side breaks, and the concave side remains intact. Thus, the fracture is incomplete and heals much faster.

Despite these features, fractures in children should be taken seriously. There are often cases when improper fusion of bones in childhood leaves an imprint in the form of impaired hand function for life.