Fractures of the Wrist

Question 1

What is a Colles fracture?

Answer 1

• a complete fracture of the distal radius with dorsal displacement
• often occurs when someone tries to break a sudden fall
• an extension fracture of the radius

Question 2

What is the most common type of wrist fracture?

Answer 2

-Colles fracture

Question 3

What is a Smith’s fracture?

Answer 3

• a complete fracture of the distal radius with palmar displacement
• a flexion fracture of the radius

Question 4

What is a Bennet’s fracture?

Answer 4

-a fracture of the 1st metacarpal base

Question 5

Median nerve injuries typically results in carpal tunnel-like symptoms, such as …?

Answer 5

• palmar numbness
• numbness of the first digit to half of the fourth digit
• generalized weakness and pain

Question 6

Ulnar nerve injuries typically result in ulnar claw deformity and symptoms such as …?

Answer 6

• numbness of the ulnar side of the hand
• numbness if the fifth and half of the fourth digits
• generalized weakness of the ulnar side of the hand and pain

Question 7

When is ROM allowed for wrist fractures?

Answer 7

-in the early phases of healing and repair

Question 8

Exercises are used to facilitate movement and improve performance of the upper extremity. What are some examples of appropriate exercises for wrist fractures?

Answer 8

• AROM with wrist extended and fingers flexed
• blocking exercises
• tendon and nerve gliding exercises
• strengthening exercises (such as theraplast and use of hand exercises)

Question 9

____ may be caused by a wrist fracture that results in compression of the median nerve as it runs through the carpal tunnel.

Answer 9

-carpal tunnel syndrome

Question 10

The primary and most severe complication of a distal radius fracture is _____.

Answer 10

-complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)