Definition

A Colles fracture is a break in the distal part of the radius bone in the forearm. The distal end of the bone is part of the wrist.

Intra-articular Colles Fracture Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

This sheet focuses on fracture of the distal radius. Fractures of other wrist bones can be found on a separate sheet.

Causes

It may be caused by trauma from:

• A fall on an outstretched hand
• A direct blow to the wrist
• A motor vehicle accident

Risk Factors

Things that may raise your risk are:

• Playing some sports, such as football, hockey, wrestling, or gymnastics
• Having a health problem that may result in falls, such as weak muscles

Symptoms

Problems may be:

• Pain that is worse with movement
• Swelling and bruising
• Problems moving the wrist or arm
• A change in the way the wrist looks

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms and health history. You will also be asked how the injury happened. A physical exam will be done. It will focus on the wrist and arm. You may need to see a doctor who treats bones.

Images will be taken of the wrist and arm. This can be done with an x-ray.

Treatment

It will take 6 to 10 weeks to heal. The goals of treatment are to manage pain and support the bone as it heals. This may include:

• Medicine to ease pain
• A cast, splint, or sling to keep the wrist in place as it heals
• Exercises to help with strength and range of motion

Children's bones have growth plates that let bones grow and harden with age. A child with a fracture may need to be checked over time to make sure the bone heals the right way and keeps growing.

Prevention

Most fractures are due to accidents. Wearing wrist guards may help prevent some injuries. Healthy bones and muscles may also help. This may be done through diet and exercise.