Recognizing Colles and Smith Fractures and How Targeted Therapy Supports Healing and Daily Function
One of the most common injuries seen in occupational therapy are distal radius fractures. This is when the bone closest to the thumb and towards the wrist is broken. There are two types of fractures known as the Colles or Smith fractures.
A Colles fracture is a direct impact to the palm, such as using your hands to break your fall. There can be a distinct bump in the wrist like the neck of a fork due to the broken end of the distal radius shifting toward the back of the hand. This is the more common of the two.
A Smith fracture is when you impact the back of the wrist, such as falling with a bent wrist. The end of the distal radius typically points down toward the palm side. This usually makes a distinct drop in the wrist where the longer part of the radius ends. This is the least common of these two.
These fractures are common from car accident, bike accident, sports accident, slipping on ice, etc. The common symptoms of distal radius fractures can be immediate pain with tenderness when touched, bruising and swelling around the wrist, deformity such as the wrist being in an odd position.
Depending on the break, you may require a cast, brace, or possible surgery depending on severity. The cast or brace usually lasts 6 weeks, and then a removable wrist splint will be provided.
If you or someone you know is having issues with a distal radius fracture, occupational therapy can help. Occupational therapy can help strengthen and increase wrist range of motion to allow you to get back to your day-to-day life. During the evaluation, the OT Therapist will assess strength using tools such as a hand dynamometer and pinch dynamometer. Your range of motion will be assessed with a goniometer and compare it to normal ROM. Swelling of the hand and wrist will also be addressed with edema massage and possibly a compression glove. A home exercises program and recurring appointments will work to meet your specific needs and what you need to get back to in your everyday life.
If you are interested in therapy to improve your quality of life, please reach out and schedule an appointment today!
