A wrist fracture may seem like a minor injury, especially if the pain gradually decreases after a fall or accident. However, neglecting a wrist fracture or receiving improper treatment can lead to permanent stiffness, chronic pain, deformity, and reduced wrist function.

One of the most serious types of wrist fractures is an intra-articular fracture, where the break extends into the wrist joint. Without timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, this injury can significantly affect hand function and quality of life.

In this article, Dr. M. Balaraju Naidu, Robotic Orthopedic Surgeon at ONUS Robotic Hospitals, discusses the importance of early diagnosis and treatment by sharing the example of a 33-year-old patient who developed complications after neglecting a distal wrist fracture.

What Is a Distal Wrist Fracture?

The wrist is formed by the lower ends of the radius and ulna bones along with the small wrist bones (carpal bones). The distal radius is the portion of the radius closest to the wrist.

A fracture in this area is known as a distal radius fracture, commonly referred to as a wrist fracture.

It is one of the most frequently seen fractures after:

• Falling on an outstretched hand
• Road traffic accidents
• Sports injuries
• Workplace injuries
• High-impact trauma

Types of Wrist Fractures

Understanding the type of fracture helps determine the most appropriate treatment.

Extra-Articular Fracture

An extra-articular fracture occurs outside the wrist joint.

Characteristics include:

• The joint surface remains intact.
• Stable fractures may often be treated without surgery.
• Recovery is generally favorable with timely treatment.

Intra-Articular Fracture

An intra-articular fracture extends into the wrist joint.

This type of fracture is more complex because it affects the smooth joint surface responsible for normal wrist movement.

Without proper treatment, it may result in:

• Joint stiffness
• Arthritis
• Persistent pain
• Reduced movement
• Weak grip strength

Why Neglected Wrist Fractures Are Dangerous

Many people ignore wrist injuries because swelling and pain may reduce after a few days.

However, untreated fractures can heal in the wrong position, a condition known as malunion.

This can lead to:

• Permanent deformity
• Loss of wrist movement
• Chronic pain
• Weak grip strength
• Difficulty lifting objects
• Reduced ability to perform daily tasks
• Early arthritis

The longer treatment is delayed, the more challenging it becomes to restore normal wrist function.

A Real-Life Example

In this case shared by Dr. M. Balaraju Naidu, a 33-year-old patient suffered a distal wrist fracture but did not receive timely orthopedic treatment.

Because the injury involved the wrist joint and proper alignment was not restored early, the patient later experienced complications that affected wrist movement and function.

This highlights the importance of consulting an orthopedic specialist immediately after a wrist injury rather than relying solely on pain relief or temporary immobilization.

Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience:

• Severe wrist pain after a fall
• Swelling around the wrist
• Visible deformity
• Difficulty moving the wrist
• Inability to grip objects
• Pain while rotating the wrist
• Persistent tenderness
• Bruising around the wrist
• Numbness in the fingers

Even if symptoms appear mild, an orthopedic evaluation is recommended after any significant wrist injury.

How Are Wrist Fractures Diagnosed?

Accurate diagnosis is essential for choosing the right treatment.

Clinical Examination

Your orthopedic surgeon will assess:

• Pain location
• Swelling
• Deformity
• Wrist movement
• Grip strength
• Blood circulation
• Nerve function

X-ray

An X-ray is usually the first imaging test performed to identify:

• Fracture location
• Bone alignment
• Degree of displacement

CT Scan

A CT scan may be recommended when:

• The fracture involves the joint
• Multiple fracture fragments are present
• Surgical planning is required
• The fracture pattern is complex

CT imaging provides a detailed view of the wrist anatomy and helps guide treatment.