Colles’ (Wrist) Fracture Treatments
Colles’ fractures are most often acute injuries that are the result of accidental falls.
When the Colles' fracture first occurs, apply ice to your wrist and keep it elevated until you're able to see a doctor.
After an exam, your doctor may use nonsurgical or surgical treatments depending on the severity of the Colles’ fracture.
Nonsurgical Colles’ fracture treatment
If the bone is lining up well enough, your doctor may place a splint or cast on the arm.
You will wear the splint or cast for four to six weeks and have routine x-rays to ensure the bone is healing properly.
Your doctor may also tell you to take acetaminophen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to help relieve pain and reduce swelling.
Colles’ fracture surgery
For a more severe Colles’ fracture, your doctor may need to perform broken wrist surgery.
You'll then wear a cast for about six weeks.
You may have a long recovery after Colles’ fracture surgery.
Even after your doctor removes the cast or splint, you might have constant stiffness in your arm.
Physical therapy right after surgery will help restore range-of-motion in the wrist and strength of the forearm.
Learn more about Colles’ fracture treatment
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