A broken wrist occurs if one of the wrist bones endures serious harm or injury which causes it to fracture. The usual causes of a broken wrist include sports or vehicular injuries or bone diseases including osteoporosis.
An individual who experiences any of the effects after sustaining a broken wrist should consult a doctor for further assessment and treatment.
Pain or discomfort
The usual effect after sustaining a broken wrist is abrupt and intense wrist pain. The pain sensation might even radiate into the hand or up the forearm or elbow. In case the individual tries to move the damaged wrist normally, pain generally increases in severity. If not properly treated, the pain can become persistent or severe over time.
Swelling
A damaged wrist might also harm the tissues bordering the site of the fracture. Damage to the tissue can lead to evident inflammation and irritation of the wrist. The inflammation causes the wrist to become swollen or enlarged among those with a fracture.
The swelling is generally focused around the broken wrist but might also trigger enlargement of the hand. The swollen skin is usually tender or uncomfortable if touched.
Bruising
Bruising is also an effect of a broken wrist. If a bone in the wrist breaks, it can harm the adjacent blood vessels. The damage to the blood vessels results to the buildup of blood beneath the skin surface which leads to unusual discoloration of the skin.
The affected skin might appear dark red, bluish or purplish in color and even tender to the touch. Even though the bruising is brief, it can last for several weeks after the initial injury.
Deformity
A broken wrist can disrupt with the normal alignment of the wrist bones. The misalignment can cause the wrist to become abnormally deformed or bent.
Reduced mobility
An individual with a broken wrist might have a hard time moving or circling the affected wrist in a normal manner. It is difficult to pick up or grasp objects due to the reduced mobility of the injured wrist.
Quick Note / Disclaimer
The material posted on this page on a broken wrist is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn more about the potential effects of the injury, register for a first aid and CPR course with Mississauga First Aid.