Distal Radius Fracture Colles, Smith Fractures
These fractures often result from a fall onto an outstretched hand or because of a direct blow. Pain, tenderness, and deformity are common. X-rays are used to rule in/out a fracture.
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Treatment for a fracture involves “closed reduction” in which the bones are moved back into alignment.
If the bones cannot be moved back into the proper position manually, open reduction and often internal fixation is used. This means that the bones are surgically positioned next to each other and might be pinned, screwed or wired together.
Early intervention/rehabilitation is helpful to reduce pain, increase range of motion, and ultimately restore strength and function. Wrist supports and custom splints are helpful to protect the area so optimal healing can occur.

Possible Treatment Goals
- Improve Function
- Improve Muscle Strength and Power
- Increase Oxygen to Tissues
- Improve Range of Motion
- Self-care of Symptoms
Additional Resources
More Wrist and Hand articles

Scaphoid Fracture
This is a common carpal wrist bone fracture.
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Fracture of the Hook of Hamate
This is a fracture of a small region on the palm of the hand opposite the thumb.
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Mallet (Baseball) Finger
This fracture results from a trauma to tip of the finger forcing it into flexion (rapidly bending it down toward the palm) and avulsing the extensor…
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