Conditions & Diagnoses: A-Z

Ask A PT

Smiths Fracture

Definition:
Reversed Colles fracture; rupture of the distal radius with displacement of the fragment toward the palmar aspect.
Symptoms:
  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Deformity in the front of your forearm near the wrist
  • Loss of motion in the hand and wrist
  • Bruising in the hand or wrist
Causes:
  • Direct blow to the dorsal forearm
  • Falling onto a flexed wrist
Treatment:
  • Possible immobilization
  • Progress to ROM and stretching
  • Wrist strengthening exercises
  • Hand intrinsic muscle strengthening