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Information

Distal Radius and Ulnar Fracture

A broken wrist: what causes it, what to do until you can see a doctor, and the signs that mean you need one.

Common cause

A distal radius and ulnar fracture is commonly caused by falling on an outstretched hand.

Until a doctor can be seen

  • Apply ice to the area
  • Elevate the arm
  • Avoid wrist movements and weight-bearing activities

Signs to see a doctor

  • Sudden pain in the forearm or wrist
  • Bruising and/or swelling around the wrist
  • Limited motion in the wrist and/or fingers
  • Visible deformity (the wrist is bent or at an angle)
Four older adults standing together, some using canes.
Falls are a common cause.
A bag of ice cubes.
Apply ice to the area.