Distal Radius Fracture

Distal radius fractures are a condition in which the bone (the radius) on the thumb side of the forearm becomes broken near the wrist. It can occur alone or involve the ulna (the bone on the little finger side of the arm). This injury is usually the result of falling onto an outstretched arm to “break the fall”. Pain, swelling, and deformity can result after this type of fracture. Distal radius fractures are diagnosed by visual inspection, physical exam, and with X-rays.