Fracture of the forearm

Description forearm fracture

Fracture of the forearm – the destruction of one or both bones of the forearm.

The forearm consists of two bones:

• Radius – the smaller of the bones, It passes on the side of a large Thumb;
• Elbow bone – most of the bones, It passes on the side of the little finger.

Reasons forearm fracture

Fracture of the forearm, usually, bone caused by trauma, the cause of which can be:

• Falling on an outstretched hand;
• Falling directly on the forearm;
• Direct blow to the forearm;
• Twisting the arms of the normal range of motion of the elbow.

Risk factors for a forearm fracture

Factors, increase the risk of fracture of the forearm include:

• Advanced age;
• Reduced muscle mass;
• Osteoporosis;
• Poor diet;
• Some congenital bone disease;
• Contact sports;
• Violence.

Symptoms of a fracture of the forearm

Symptoms include:

• Pain, often severe;
• Sensitivity, swelling and bruising around the area of ​​injury;
• Reducing the range of movement of the arm;
• Visible swelling or deformation on the fracture site.

Diagnosis of fracture of forearm

The doctor will ask about your symptoms, About, how the accident occurred, will examine the injured area.

Tests may include:

• Roentgen – examination, which uses X-rays, to take a picture of structures inside the body, In this case bones. It is used to search for fracture in the forearm;
• CT scan – type of X-ray, which uses computer, to make pictures of structures inside of the forearm. It used to take pictures of the cartilage and tendons of the elbow. When complex fractures, CT can be used in restoration of the forearm bones.

Treatment of fractures of the forearm

Treatment will depend on the location and severity of the injury and includes:

1. Return to shattered pieces of bone in the normal position. Sometimes the routine may require anesthesia or surgery;
2. Saving a stationary position until the injured bone healing and splices.

Methods, which can be used to save the fixed position of bones:

• Cast (It can be used without or after surgery);
• Metal plate with screws (It requires surgery);
• Screws without additional fasteners (It requires surgery);

To reduce the pain can be assigned analgesic. As the healing will be performed the additional x-rays, that allows you to monitor the treatment and to avoid displacement of bones.

Exercises at the turn of the forearm

After the doctor's permission, you can start to do the exercises to increase range of motion and strengthen the muscles of the broken hand. The main focus will be on restoring movements in the fingers and shoulders. This may be assigned to visit a physiotherapist. Prior to the complete healing of the bones and muscles of the hand can not play sports.

Time forearm fracture healing

Forearm fracture healing takes about 8-10 weeks. With an open fracture healing time will be longer.

If you are diagnosed with a fracture of the forearm, Follow your doctor's instructions.

Prevention of fractures of the forearm

In order to prevent fractures of the forearm:

• Do not expose yourself to the risk of hand injury;
• Eat a diet, rich in calcium and vitamin D;
• Perform exercises to strengthen bones;
• Train your muscles, to prevent falls and protect the forearm;
• Follow safety at work and the participation in sports competitions.