Colles' Wrist Fracture: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Abraham Colles, an Irish surgeon from the 18th century, first described a common wrist fracture in 1814. Known as a Colles' wrist fracture, it affects the radius bone near the hand and often occurs due to a fall onto an outstretched hand.
This injury causes the wrist to bend abnormally, resulting in pain, swelling, and bruising. Initially, treatment involves immobilising the wrist, elevating it, applying ice, and using over-the-counter pain relievers. Recovery can take a year or more, with a cast typically removed after six weeks in children and soon after surgery in adults. Some may experience long-term dull ache or stiffness, and even carpal tunnel syndrome. Prevention involves maintaining adequate calcium and vitamin D intake, regular exercise, and wearing wrist guards during high-risk activities. This fracture, also called a distal radius fracture, is more common in older adults with brittle bones and children with soft bones.
Named after Abraham Colles, this wrist fracture requires prompt medical attention. While recovery can be lengthy, proper treatment and care can help minimise long-term effects.
