A fractured wrist is the medical term for a broken wrist. The wrist has two forearm bones, the radius and ulna, and a group of smaller bones called the carpal bones. But a fracture, crack, or break in any of these bones is considered a broken wrist. The severity of the fractured wrist can range from a hairline crack to a complete break, but in short, any wrist fracture is a broken wrist.
Broken wrists are common sports injuries, often occurring due to falls, collisions, or impact on the wrist. Wrist fractures often happen in Fall sports like volleyball, cheer, soccer, and football. Signs of a wrist fracture typically include pain, immediate swelling, bruising, and limited mobility.
To diagnose a fractured or broken wrist, we use an X-ray at our Arlington Urgent Care to assess the precise location and degree of fracture. Treatment options vary based on the type and severity of the fracture. Simple fractures may be managed with immobilization using a cast or splint, allowing the bones to heal naturally over several weeks. However, more complex wrist fractures might require realignment or surgery with a hand injury specialist.
Seeking immediate treatment for wrist fractures is necessary to ensure proper healing. Common sports injuries often happen on weekends or after traditional clinic hours. But Orthopedic Immediate Care (OrthoOIC) in Arlington, VA, is a full-service orthopedic office. We are open on Saturdays and have walk-in appointments available on weekends. When you require the best orthopedic urgent care in Northern Virginia, the greater Washington DC area, visit OrthoOIC for excellent treatment and care.