Distal Radius Fracture: Treatment and Recovery

01Definition

What a distal radius fracture is

The forearm has two bones, the radius and the ulna. University Hospitals Sussex explains that the distal part of the radius is the end nearest the wrist. MedlinePlus explains that a Colles fracture is a break in the radius about 2.5 cm (an inch) from the wrist joint, a common type of distal radius fracture.

MedlinePlus notes that Colles fracture is more common in women than in men and is the most common broken bone in women up to age 75. Other wrist injuries, such as a sprained wrist, can cause similar pain, which is why an X-ray is used to confirm a fracture.

02Causes

How it happens: falls and fragile bones

MedlinePlus explains that a distal radius fracture is caused by a forceful injury to the wrist, such as:

• falling on an outstretched arm, the most common cause
• falls while skiing, cycling or during other activities
• contact sports
• car accidents

Osteoporosis is a major risk factor, because it makes bones brittle so they break with less force. MedlinePlus notes that sometimes a broken wrist is the first sign that bones are weakening. If you are over 50, ask your doctor whether your bone health should be checked.

04Types

Types and why displacement matters

MedlinePlus explains that treatment depends on the type of break. In a small fracture where the bone pieces have not moved out of place, a splint is often enough. More severe fractures, in which the pieces have shifted (displaced) or the break is unstable, may need the bone to be put back into position.

This is why two fractures in the same place can be treated very differently. The treating team decides, based on the X-rays and examination, whether the fracture is stable enough to heal in a cast.

05Diagnosis

Diagnosis: X-rays and other tests

University Hospitals Sussex describes care for people diagnosed with a distal radius fracture in the emergency department, where the fracture is seen on an X-ray. The X-ray shows where the radius is broken and whether the pieces have moved.

Depending on the injury, the team may request further imaging or a review by a fracture clinic. In some hospitals, a virtual fracture clinic follows up the fracture, reviews the X-rays and advises when the cast or splint can be removed.

06Cast

Cast or splint treatment

MedlinePlus explains that a small fracture where the bones have not moved usually needs a splint for 3 to 5 weeks, while some breaks need a cast for about 6 to 8 weeks. A second cast may be needed if the first becomes loose as swelling goes down. University Hospitals Sussex notes that the bone usually takes about six weeks to heal, and that you may not need the cast or splint for the whole period.

In the first days, University Hospitals Sussex advises using a sling to keep the hand raised just below the shoulder, raising the wrist when it throbs and avoiding letting the arm hang by your side. MedlinePlus suggests keeping the arm above heart level and using a wrapped ice pack for 15 to 20 minutes every few hours in the first days. Simple painkillers may help; follow the dose instructions and ask a pharmacist if unsure.

07Surgery

When surgery is considered

MedlinePlus explains that if the break is severe, you may see an orthopedic surgeon. Options include closed reduction, setting the broken bone without surgery, and surgery to hold the bones in place with screws and plates or to replace a broken piece with a metal part.

The decision depends on the fracture pattern, how well the bone stays in position and individual factors, and is made with the surgeon. MedlinePlus notes that people who have surgery may start physiotherapy earlier to avoid stiffness, while those treated without surgery may start wrist movement later to avoid shifting of the fracture.

09Sources

Where the sources differ

University Hospitals Sussex (September 2024) is written for people treated in its emergency department and gives practical advice on slings, exercises, work and driving: you can return to work when comfortable without using the injured arm until advised, and should not drive while in a cast. MedlinePlus (June 2025) describes a wider range of severity, including surgery, and longer timescales: initial recovery takes 3 to 4 months or more, and full function can take a few months to a year, with some people keeping stiffness or pain.

Both recommend moving the fingers, elbow and shoulder early. University Hospitals Sussex suggests exercises up to 10 times, two to three times a day, without forcing, and stopping if pain gets much worse. After immobilization and with your surgeon’s go-ahead, our physiotherapy practice in Bilbao can guide wrist rehabilitation (consultations are in Spanish).

10Summary

In summary

A distal radius fracture is a break of the radius near the wrist, usually from a fall on an outstretched hand, more likely when bones are fragile. Stable fractures heal in a splint or cast; displaced or unstable ones may need the bone set or surgery. Keep the hand raised, move the free joints, care for the cast and watch for warning signs.

It helps to separate decisions by phase. During immobilization, the team decides the type of cast and timing; at home you raise the arm, move your fingers, elbow and shoulder and protect the cast. When the cast comes off, the team decides when to load the wrist; you follow the exercise plan. During rehabilitation, the physiotherapist sets progression; you practice daily and report pain or stiffness.