A forearm fracture is a break in one or both bones of the forearm.
The forearm consists of two bones:
A forearm fracture is caused by trauma to the bone. Trauma includes:
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease, condition, or injury. Risk factors for a forearm fracture include:
Symptoms include:
The doctor will ask about your symptoms, physical activity, and how the injury occurred, and examine the injured area.
Tests may include:
Treatment will depend on the severity of the injury. Treatment involves:
Devices that may be used to hold the bone in place while it heals include:
The doctor may prescribe pain medication depending on the level of pain. Your doctor will order more x-rays while the bone heals to ensure that the bones have not shifted position.
When your doctor decides you are ready, start range-of-motion and strengthening exercises. Attention will be directed to the fingers and the shoulder so that you maintain motion in these critical joints. You will be referred to a physical therapist to assist you with these exercises. Do not return to sports until the fracture is healed and you have regained normal muscle strength and arm mobility.
It takes about 8-10 weeks for a fractured forearm to heal. If the fracture has an open wound over it, the healing time will be longer.
If you are diagnosed with a forearem fracture, follow your doctor's instructions .
To help prevent forearm fractures:
RESOURCES:
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
http://www.aaos.org
American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine
http://www.aossm.org/tabs/Index.aspx
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Orthopaedic Association
http://www.coa-aco.org/
Canadian Orthopaedic Foundation
http://www.canorth.org/
References:
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website. Available at: http://www.aaos.org/ .
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases website. Available at: http://www.niams.nih.gov .
Last reviewed November 2008 by John C. Keel, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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