Fracture of the Distal Radius & Ulna

What is a Fracture of the Distal Radius and Ulna?

A distal radius and ulna fracture refers to a break in one or both of the forearm bones close to the wrist.

The forearm consists of two bones:

• Radius – the larger bone on the thumb side of the forearm
• Ulna – the bone on the little finger side of the forearm

The distal ends of these bones form part of the wrist joint. When these bones fracture near the wrist, it can significantly affect wrist movement, grip strength, and hand function.

This type of fracture is one of the most common wrist fractures, particularly following falls or sports injuries.

How Does a Fracture of the Distal Radius and Ulna Happen?

The most common cause of a distal radius and ulna fracture is falling onto an outstretched hand (FOOSH injury).

When a person falls and instinctively extends their hand to break the fall, a large amount of force travels through the wrist and forearm bones.

If the force exceeds the bone’s strength, it can result in a fracture.

Other possible causes include:

• Sports injuries
• Road traffic accidents
• Direct trauma to the wrist
• Falls during daily activities

These fractures are particularly common in:

• Contact sports
• Cycling accidents
• Slips and falls

What Are the Symptoms of a Distal Radius and Ulna Fracture?

Symptoms typically appear immediately after the injury.

Common symptoms include:

• Severe pain just above the wrist
• Swelling around the wrist and forearm
• Bruising or skin discoloration
• Tenderness when touching the injured area
• Difficulty moving the wrist or fingers
• Visible deformity or bump at the back of the wrist
• Grinding or clicking sensation with movement
• Reduced grip strength
• Numbness or tingling in the hand or fingers if nerves are affected

In some cases, the wrist may appear misaligned or visibly deformed.

What Should I Do If I Have a Distal Radius and Ulna Fracture?

A suspected fracture of the distal radius and ulna requires immediate medical attention.

You should visit the accident and emergency department as soon as possible for proper assessment.

Doctors will usually confirm the diagnosis using:

• Physical examination
• X-ray imaging

To help manage pain and swelling before medical treatment:

• Apply ice wrapped in a cloth to the injured area
• Keep the arm elevated if possible
• Avoid moving the injured wrist

Ice should be applied for up to 20 minutes at a time.

Physiotherapy Treatment for a Distal Radius and Ulna Fracture

Treatment for distal radius and ulna fractures usually begins with immobilisation using a cast or splint.

In more severe fractures, surgery may be required to realign the bones.

After immobilisation, the wrist and surrounding muscles often become stiff and weak, which can make everyday activities difficult.

Physiotherapy plays an essential role in restoring normal function.

At ACE Physio Sports – Singapore, physiotherapists provide structured rehabilitation programmes tailored to each patient.

Treatment may include:

Joint Mobilisation

Gentle joint mobilisation techniques help improve wrist flexibility and reduce stiffness.

Strengthening Exercises

Progressive exercises help rebuild strength in the:

• Wrist
• Forearm
• Hand muscles

Stretching Exercises

Stretching routines help restore full wrist movement and prevent long-term stiffness.

Manual Therapy

Soft tissue therapy helps improve tissue mobility and manage scar tissue following surgery or immobilisation.

Electrotherapy

Electrotherapy treatments may help reduce pain and promote tissue healing.

Functional Rehabilitation

Functional exercises help restore everyday hand movements such as:

• Turning a doorknob
• Gripping objects
• Lifting items

These treatments help patients regain strength, coordination, and confidence in wrist function.

What Should I Avoid With a Distal Radius and Ulna Fracture?

If you suspect or have been diagnosed with a distal radius and ulna fracture, certain activities should be avoided.

Avoid:

• Using the injured arm before medical assessment
• Lifting heavy objects
• Sudden wrist movements
• Removing casts or splints without medical guidance
• Heat therapy or massage immediately after injury
• Alcohol consumption that may increase bleeding

These actions may worsen swelling or delay healing.

Can There Be Long-Term Effects?

Most distal radius and ulna fractures heal successfully within several weeks, especially with proper treatment and rehabilitation.

However, recovery time may vary depending on the severity of the injury.

In some cases, complications may occur if surrounding structures are affected, such as:

• Cartilage damage
• Ligament injuries
• Tendon damage
• Nerve or blood vessel injury

These complications may prolong recovery and require additional treatment.

With proper physiotherapy and rehabilitation, most patients regain full wrist function and strength.

Why Choose ACE Physio Sports

ACE Physio Sports – Singapore provides specialised physiotherapy for fractures, wrist injuries, and sports rehabilitation.

Our physiotherapists design personalised rehabilitation programmes to restore strength, mobility, and hand function.

Patients benefit from:

• Experienced physiotherapists
• Personalised treatment plans
• Evidence-based rehabilitation techniques
• Sports and musculoskeletal specialists
• Modern physiotherapy facilities

Our East Coast Road clinic serves patients from nearby areas including:

• Marine Parade
• Katong
• Joo Chiat
• Siglap
• Bedok
• Telok Kurau

We help patients return safely to daily activities, work, and sports.

Book an Appointment

To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosport.com.