Radius fracture

Radius Fracture

A Radius fracture is a common type of bone fracture affecting the radius, one of the two large bones of the forearm. The radius is located on the thumb side of the forearm and is more likely to break than the ulna, the other bone of the forearm.

Types of Radius Fractures

There are several types of radius fractures, including:

• Colles' fracture: This is the most common type of radius fracture. It occurs near the wrist, and usually results from a fall onto an outstretched hand.

• Smith's fracture: This is a less common type of radius fracture. It also occurs near the wrist, but the fracture line is in the opposite direction of a Colles' fracture.

• Barton's fracture: This is a fracture and dislocation of the radiocarpal joint.

• Greenstick fracture: This is a type of fracture that occurs in children, where the bone bends and breaks on one side, but not the other.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a radius fracture can include:

• Pain and swelling in the forearm or wrist
• Difficulty turning the arm
• Deformity of the wrist or forearm

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a radius fracture typically involves a physical examination and imaging tests, such as X-rays or a CT scan.

Treatment

Treatment for a radius fracture depends on the severity and type of fracture. It may include:

• Immobilization with a cast or splint
• Pain medication
• Physical therapy
• Surgery in severe cases

See Also

• Bone fracture
• Forearm
• Wrist

Radius fracture Resources
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