Wrist Fracture

Distal Radius Fracture | Wrist Fracture Treatment | Northern Utah Hand Specialist

Distal Radius Fracture

Expert Wrist Fracture Care in Northern Utah

A distal radius fracture — commonly called a broken wrist or wrist fracture — is a frequent injury that can cause pain, swelling, and loss of function. It occurs when the radius bone near the wrist breaks, often due to a fall or direct trauma.

At Northern Utah Hand & Upper Extremity Surgery, Dr. Christopher English provides advanced treatment for wrist fractures, helping patients throughout Layton, Bountiful, and the Salt Lake metro area recover fully and return to the activities they love.

Common Symptoms of a Distal Radius Fracture

You may have a distal radius fracture if you experience:

  • Sudden wrist pain after a fall or accident

  • Swelling and bruising around the wrist

  • Deformity or abnormal angle in the wrist

  • Difficulty moving the hand or fingers

  • Weak grip strength

What Causes a Broken Wrist?

Distal radius fractures often occur from:

  • Falls on an outstretched hand

  • Sports injuries or collisions

  • Motor vehicle accidents

  • Age-related bone loss (osteoporosis)

This injury is especially common in older adults and athletes.

How We Diagnose a Distal Radius Fracture

Dr. English performs a thorough exam and imaging studies to evaluate:

  • Whether the fracture is displaced or non-displaced

  • If the joint surface is involved

  • Number and position of bone fragments

  • Possible involvement of nearby ligaments or nerves

Wrist Fracture Treatment Options

Nonsurgical Treatment

  • Casting or Splinting: For stable fractures, immobilization can allow the bone to heal naturally.

  • Frequent Imaging: Regular X-rays monitor the alignment during healing.

Surgical Treatment

  • Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF): Bone fragments are repositioned and stabilized with a plate and screws.

  • Minimally Invasive Surgery: When possible, Dr. English uses techniques that reduce recovery time and tissue damage.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Most patients heal in 6–12 weeks, depending on the severity of the fracture and treatment method. After immobilization or surgery:

  • Physical therapy helps restore wrist movement and strength

  • Patients are guided through a personalized rehab plan

  • Full recovery time varies but is often achieved within 3 months

Why Choose Dr. Christopher English?

✅ Fellowship-trained in hand and upper extremity surgery
✅ Personalized, patient-centered care
✅ On-site X-ray and therapy for convenience
✅ Trusted by patients from Salt Lake City to Ogden and beyond

Schedule an Appointment

If you think you’ve broken your wrist or are experiencing pain after an injury, don’t delay care. Prompt treatment can make a big difference in your long-term function.

📍 Two Locations:

  • Layton – IHC Layton Parkway

  • Bountiful – 5 Points Clinic

📞 Call us or schedule your appointment online today with Dr. Christopher English, Northern Utah’s trusted wrist and hand specialist.