FOREARM FRACTURES

If you suffer from severe pain caused by a forearm fracture, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What is a Forearm Fracture?

A forearm fracture occurs when a break develops in one or both bones of the forearm: the radius and ulna. A fall, direct blow, sports injury, or motor vehicle accident can place enough force on the bones to cause a fracture. Some fractures create a clean break, while others can cause the bone to shift, break into several pieces, or pierce through the skin.

A forearm fracture can cause sudden pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, and difficulty moving the wrist or elbow. Patients may also notice a visible change in the shape of the forearm when a fracture causes significant displacement. Specialists use physical examinations and imaging, such as X-rays, to identify the location and severity of the fracture and guide treatment.

Types of Forearm Fractures

Forearm fractures can affect either the radius, the ulna, or both bones. Specialists classify fractures based on the location, pattern, severity, and position of the broken bone. Common types include a distal radius fracture, which affects the wrist end of the radius; a shaft fracture, which affects the middle portion of the radius or ulna; and a proximal ulna fracture, which affects the elbow end of the ulna.

Fractures can also vary based on how the bone breaks. A transverse fracture creates a straight break across the bone, while an oblique fracture creates an angled break. A spiral fracture wraps around the bone after a twisting force, while a comminuted fracture breaks the bone into several pieces. An open fracture breaks through the skin, while a closed fracture keeps the broken bone beneath the skin.

Treatment Options for Forearm Fractures

Doctors may treat mild forearm fractures with a splint or cast to keep the broken bones aligned while healing occurs. Patients can use ice and doctor-approved pain medication to manage swelling and discomfort. Follow-up X-rays help doctors monitor bone healing and confirm proper alignment. After healing progresses, physical therapy can restore wrist, elbow, and forearm movement, strength, and flexibility.

Severe fractures may require surgery when bones shift significantly, break into multiple pieces, damage nearby tissues, or pierce through the skin. Surgeons can realign the bones and secure them with plates, screws, rods, or other fixation devices. Open fractures may require additional treatment to clean the wound and prevent infection. After surgery, patients typically follow a rehabilitation program to regain movement, strength, and normal arm function.

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Upper Extremity Specialist in the DFW Metroplex, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us online. Telemedicine appointments are also available.