Distal Radius Fracture

A broken wrist. The most common fracture in adults. Some heal in a cast; others need surgery.

Illustration of a wrist showing a fracture line across the distal radius just above the small wrist bones — A distal radius fracture is a break in the larger forearm bone just above the wrist.

What is a distal radius fracture?

The radius is the larger of the two forearm bones. When it breaks near the wrist, that is called a distal radius fracture. It is the most common broken bone in adults. The break can be a clean crack with the bones still lined up, or the bones can be shifted, tilted, or broken into several pieces.

Common symptoms

Pain and swelling at the wrist right after a fall or injury
A visible bump or bend at the wrist (sometimes described as a "dinner fork" shape)
Inability to move the wrist or bear weight through it
Bruising that can spread into the hand and forearm over days

Why does it happen?

Most distal radius fractures happen after a fall onto an outstretched hand. In younger adults they are often caused by higher-energy injuries (sports, bike accidents). In older adults a simple fall from standing height is the most common cause and can be a sign to discuss bone health.

Treatment options

Non-surgical treatment

Cast or splint. If the bones are not badly shifted, or if they can be gently pushed back into place in the office or emergency room, a cast can hold everything still while the bone heals. Cast time is usually about 6 weeks, followed by hand therapy to regain motion.

Surgical treatment

Open reduction and internal fixation. When the break is unstable, shifted, or involves the joint surface, surgery puts the bones back in their correct position and holds them there with a metal plate and screws on the front of the wrist. This usually allows you to start moving the wrist within a week or two, without a cast.
Other options. Pins or an external fixator may be used in specific situations. Dr. Barrera will explain which approach fits your injury best.

Illustration of a distal radius fracture fixed with a plate and screws, shown alongside an external fixation option — Two ways of holding the bones still during healing: a plate and screws on the front of the wrist, or an external fixator.

What to expect at your visit

Dr. Barrera will examine the wrist, review X-rays, and sometimes order a CT scan to see the break in more detail. The decision between cast treatment and surgery depends on how the bones are aligned, whether the break extends into the joint, your hand dominance, your activity level, and your goals. You will leave the visit with a clear plan.

When to call the office or seek care sooner

Seek emergency care if the skin over the wrist is broken or bleeding, if the fingers are pale, cold, or numb, or if the pain is severe and not relieved by elevation and ice. Swelling that gets dramatically worse after the first day, or fingers that will not move, also deserve urgent attention.

After distal radius fracture surgery: recovery guide

Questions?

Call your office location for non-urgent questions:

NYU Langone Laurelton · 646-501-4950
NYU Orthopedic, Woodside · 929-429-3222
NYU Orthopedic, Richmond Hill · 718-206-6923
Jamaica Hospital Ambulatory Care Center (ACC) · 718-301-0720

See our office contact information for addresses and fax numbers.