Our knowledge of orthopaedics. Your best health.

from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

Diseases & Conditions

Treatment

Recovery

Staying Healthy

Distal Radius Fractures (Broken Wrist) Overview

The radius is the larger of the two bones in the forearm. The section of the radius that is connected to the wrist joint is called the distal radius. A fracture in this area is sometimes called a “broken wrist.”

Distal radius fractures are common and most often result from falling onto an outstretched hand or receiving a direct blow to the wrist.

This video describes the different types of distal radius fractures and provides information on the symptoms of a broken wrist, surgical and nonsurgical treatment options, and what to expect during recovery.

Because it contains actual surgical footage recorded in an operating room, this video may not be suitable for all viewers.

 

Contributed and/or Updated by

Stuart J. Fischer, MD, FAAOS

AAOS does not endorse any treatments, procedures, products, or physicians referenced herein. This information is provided as an educational service and is not intended to serve as medical advice. Anyone seeking specific orthopaedic advice or assistance should consult his or her orthopaedic surgeon, or locate one in your area through the AAOS Find an Orthopaedist program on this website.

 

The content on this website may have been translated from English into other languages using artificial intelligence tools. The translations are provided for the convenience of readers and may not been reviewed or verified by medical professionals. AAOS makes no guarantees regarding the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of the translated information and disclaims all liability for any issues arising from its use. Users are strongly encouraged to refer to the original English content and consult qualified healthcare professionals before making any medical decisions. By using the translated content, you acknowledge and accept these limitations and assume full responsibility for any reliance on the information provided.