What is Distal Radius Surgery?
A distal radius fracture is a break at the lower end of the radius bone, close to the wrist. This part of the radius is commonly fractured due to its role in hand and wrist movements.
If you have a distal radius fracture, symptoms may include pain, swelling, and difficulty moving your arm. Some people experience numbness or tingling in the fingers or see visible changes in the wrist’s shape. This type of fracture may happen alongside other injuries, like a dislocated wrist or soft tissue damage.
Common Causes of Distal Radius Fractures
Direct Trauma – A distal radius fracture often occurs from a fall where you instinctively reach out your hand to break the fall, causing a forceful impact on the wrist. Immobilization, such as a cast, and pain relief are often the first steps in managing pain. Kinesiology can aid healing during recovery by using gentle techniques to relieve muscle tension and improve blood flow. This approach also balances the nervous system, supporting a calm and positive recovery.
Repetitive Stress on the Wrist – Repetitive wrist stress from activities or jobs can lead to a distal radius fracture. Rest, wrist support, and inflammation control are essential for pain management. Kinesiology addresses muscle imbalances, relieving pain and supporting faster recovery by strengthening weak areas. Lifestyle adjustments and ergonomic support also reduce physical and mental strain.
Osteoporosis – Osteoporosis weakens bones, making them prone to fractures. Treatment may involve supplements and gentle exercise. Kinesiology helps by easing muscle tension, improving blood flow, and balancing energy, which promotes healing and resilience. Techniques like energy balancing, combined with diet and weight-bearing exercises, help reduce physical pain and the stress of managing osteoporosis long-term.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
To diagnose a distal radius fracture, doctors usually perform a physical exam and imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRI. Treatment options include immobilization, surgery, and physical therapy.
Immobilization: A cast or splint holds the bone in place for stable fractures, allowing natural healing. While it may feel restrictive, it’s effective for many fractures.
Surgery: For complex fractures, surgery may be needed. A surgeon will realign the bone and secure it with hardware like screws, plates, or pins. After surgery, a cast and physical therapy are often recommended.
Physical Therapy: Physical therapy is essential after initial healing. It helps restore range of motion, strength, and flexibility in the wrist. A physical therapist will guide you through exercises for a full and safe recovery.
Recovery varies, typically between six to eight weeks. It’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions and avoid overusing your arm, as it can delay healing. Working with a kinesiologist or physiotherapist helps manage pain and support a smooth recovery.
Relieve Pain and Restore Strength: How Kinesiology Supports Your Healing Journey After Wrist Surgery
Kinesiology, the study of body movement, plays an essential role in recovery, especially after distal radius fracture surgery. A skilled kinesiologist provides personalized rehabilitation to meet your needs.
Range of Motion Exercises: After surgery, your wrist may feel stiff and uncomfortable. A kinesiologist can help you work through gentle range of motion exercises designed to ease pain and reduce stiffness. These exercises gradually encourage flexibility and allow you to start moving your wrist again without straining it. By slowly increasing your range of motion, these exercises can make daily activities feel easier and less painful.
Strengthening Exercises: Once your wrist begins to feel a bit more flexible, strengthening exercises come into play. A kinesiologist will guide you through exercises that target the muscles around your wrist, helping to rebuild stability and strength. These exercises are gradual, ensuring you don’t overdo it, and they protect against future injuries by reinforcing the muscles supporting your wrist. Building strength around the fracture site can make a huge difference in how quickly and safely you regain full function.
Manual Therapy: Manual therapy, including techniques like massage and joint mobilization, can add a lot of comfort to your recovery. A kinesiologist uses these hands-on methods to release tension, reduce pain, and improve mobility in your wrist and surrounding muscles. This approach not only eases soreness but also enhances circulation, helping the healing process. Manual therapy can feel particularly relieving after periods of immobilization when stiffness is a common issue.
Brace or Splint Fitting: For extra support, a kinesiologist can help fit a brace or splint for your wrist. A well-fitted brace keeps your wrist stable, preventing unnecessary movement and reducing pain as you go about your day. This added support is especially helpful if you’re easing back into regular activities. With the right brace, you can feel more confident that your wrist is protected during the healing process.
Pain Management Techniques: Pain isn’t just physical—it can affect your mood and focus too. A kinesiologist can teach you techniques like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualization to help you manage pain levels. These simple but effective methods are tools you can use whenever discomfort flares up, helping you stay calm and centered. Pain management techniques also support a positive mindset, which is valuable in any recovery journey.
Returning to Normal Activities: As you heal, getting back to your daily activities is likely a top goal. A kinesiologist can guide you through this transition, gradually increasing the intensity and duration of your exercises. This approach ensures that you’re not pushing your wrist too hard, too soon. By carefully pacing your return to routine, you’ll avoid setbacks and give yourself the best chance of a full recovery.
At Kinesiology for Performance, we understand the unique challenges of a distal radius fracture and provide tailored support for your journey. While we can’t prescribe medication, we’re here to guide you through a recovery plan designed to help you feel your best.