A broken wrist, also known as a wrist fracture, causes severe and persistent pain. This common injury typically occurs when a person attempts to break a fall by landing on an outstretched hand. The immediate onset of pain signals a significant disruption to the wrist’s bone structure, which includes the two forearm bones (radius and ulna) and eight smaller carpal bones. Understanding the nature of this pain and accompanying symptoms is important for recognizing a potential fracture.
The Nature of the Pain
Pain is often sharp and immediate at the moment of injury. It may then evolve into a throbbing sensation, which can worsen with any attempt to grip, squeeze, or move the hand or wrist. This discomfort stems from multiple factors. Bone fragments irritate surrounding tissues, and the body’s inflammatory response contributes to swelling and pressure. Muscle spasms around the fracture site can further intensify the pain.
Pain severity is influenced by specific fracture characteristics. For instance, a fracture extending into the joint (intra-articular fracture) or one where the bone breaks into multiple pieces (comminuted fracture) may result in more intense pain due to greater instability and tissue disruption. The degree of bone displacement, where bone ends are moved out of alignment, also plays a role in pain levels. Individual pain tolerance also varies.
Beyond Pain: Other Indicators
While pain is a primary symptom, a broken wrist often presents with other noticeable signs. Swelling typically develops quickly around the injured wrist as the body sends fluids to the damaged area. Bruising, appearing as discoloration, is common due to internal bleeding. The wrist area will feel sensitive and sore to the touch, indicating tenderness directly over the fracture site.
A visible deformity, such as an unnatural bend or twist in the wrist, may be apparent. Movement of the wrist or fingers might become difficult or impossible due to pain and instability. Nerve involvement can lead to numbness or tingling in the hand or fingers, particularly if the fracture affects nerves passing through the wrist. These symptoms together suggest a wrist fracture and warrant prompt medical evaluation.
Immediate Relief and Medical Attention
Immediate action following a suspected broken wrist can help manage pain and prevent further injury. Immobilizing the wrist is a first step; this can be done using a makeshift splint or by wrapping a cloth to keep it still. Applying ice or a cold pack for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, several times a day, can help reduce swelling and numb pain.
Always place a thin cloth between the ice and skin. Elevating the wrist above heart level also reduces swelling and pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage discomfort.
Seeking prompt medical attention for a suspected broken wrist is important for proper diagnosis and treatment. If there is severe pain, an obvious deformity, numbness or tingling in the fingers, or a bone protruding through the skin, seek immediate care. Delaying diagnosis and treatment can lead to poor healing, reduced range of motion, and long-term complications. A medical professional will perform an examination and order X-rays to confirm the diagnosis and determine the fracture’s type and severity.
Pain During the Healing Process
Pain from a broken wrist continues throughout the healing and recovery period. While acute, sharp pain usually subsides once the wrist is immobilized with a cast or splint, generalized discomfort, aching, or stiffness can persist for weeks or months. This ongoing pain is part of the healing process. It is common to experience some pain at rest, and intensity can fluctuate.
Pain levels change as the bone mends and during physical therapy. Early on, movement of unaffected joints like fingers and the elbow is encouraged to prevent stiffness. As healing progresses, a physical therapist will guide exercises to regain range of motion and strength, which may cause temporary discomfort. Most people recover well, but some may experience residual stiffness or aching for up to two years, or permanently, especially after severe injuries or in older individuals. If pain is persistent, worsening unexpectedly, or new symptoms like increased swelling or numbness appear, consult a doctor.