Distal Ulnar Fracture: Treatment and Rehabilitation at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health

What is a Distal Ulnar Fracture?

The distal ulnar fracture refers to a fracture at the end of the ulna bone, which is located on the little finger side of the forearm. This type of injury often occurs in conjunction with a distal radius fracture, as both bones are close to each other and are commonly affected by similar mechanisms of injury, such as falls or sports accidents.

The ulna plays an important role in stabilizing the wrist and forearm, and any disruption to its integrity can significantly affect your ability to use your hand and wrist for basic functions.

Symptoms of a Distal Ulnar Fracture

The symptoms of a distal ulnar fracture vary depending on the severity of the injury. Common signs include:

1. Pain and Tenderness

• Pain is typically felt along the little finger side of the forearm, near the wrist.

• Tenderness may be present at the fracture site when touched.

2. Swelling and Bruising

• Swelling around the wrist and forearm is common, often accompanied by bruising in the area.

• The wrist may appear deformed if the fracture is displaced.

3. Limited Range of Motion

• Difficulty moving the wrist and forearm, especially when trying to rotate or grip objects.

• Inability to bend or extend the wrist fully.

4. Weakness and Numbness

• Numbness or tingling in the hand or fingers may occur if the fracture impinges on nearby nerves.

• Reduced grip strength and difficulty with daily tasks like writing, holding utensils, or turning door handles.

Causes of Distal Ulnar Fractures

Distal ulnar fractures typically occur due to high-impact trauma. The most common causes include:

1. Fall onto an Outstretched Hand (FOOSH)

• Falling onto an outstretched hand is one of the most common causes of distal ulnar fractures. The force from the impact can cause a break at the distal end of the ulna, especially if the wrist is extended.

2. Sports Injuries

• Contact sports such as football, rugby, or martial arts can lead to distal ulnar fractures from falls or direct hits to the forearm.

3. Motor Vehicle Accidents

• A high-impact accident or collision can result in direct trauma to the forearm, leading to fractures of the ulna.

4. Osteoporosis

• People with weakened bones, such as those with osteoporosis, are at increased risk for fractures from even minor trauma or falls.

Diagnosing a Distal Ulnar Fracture

Accurate diagnosis of a distal ulnar fracture requires a physical exam and imaging tests. Your physiotherapist or doctor will typically use:

1. Physical Examination

• Your healthcare provider will examine your wrist and forearm for signs of swelling, bruising, and tenderness.

• Specific tests to check the range of motion and strength may be performed.

2. X-rays

• X-rays are the primary diagnostic tool for confirming a distal ulnar fracture. They can show the location, type, and severity of the fracture.

• In some cases, X-rays may reveal a fracture that is not immediately visible, so follow-up imaging may be necessary.

3. CT or MRI Scan

• In cases where the fracture is complex or difficult to see on X-rays, a CT scan or MRI may be used to get a more detailed view of the fracture.

Treatment for Distal Ulnar Fractures at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health

Treatment for a distal ulnar fracture depends on the type and severity of the break. At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, our multidisciplinary team provides individualized care to help you heal and regain optimal function in your wrist and forearm.

1. Non-Surgical Treatment (For Non-Displaced Fractures)

• Immobilization: Non-displaced fractures are typically treated with a cast or splint to immobilize the wrist and forearm, allowing the bone to heal in the correct position.

• Rest: Rest is important to avoid further injury and ensure the fracture heals properly.

• Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain medications such as NSAIDs may be recommended to reduce pain and swelling.

2. Surgical Treatment (For Displaced or Complex Fractures)

• If the fracture is displaced (the bones are misaligned), surgery may be required to reposition the bones and hold them in place with plates, screws, or pins.

• Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF) may be recommended if the fracture is unstable and cannot heal properly without surgical intervention.

3. Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation

• Once the bone begins healing, physiotherapy is essential to restore function, flexibility, and strength in the wrist and forearm.

• Range of motion exercises are introduced to improve mobility and prevent stiffness in the wrist joint.

• Strengthening exercises are designed to restore grip strength and promote the use of the wrist and forearm for daily activities.

• Manual therapy may be used to help reduce pain and improve the mobility of the forearm and wrist.

4. Occupational Therapy

• Occupational therapy may include the use of splints or braces to support the wrist during rehabilitation.

• Adaptive strategies for using the wrist while it heals can be provided, ensuring that you can perform necessary tasks without risking further injury.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

The recovery timeline for a distal ulnar fracture can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the treatment method used. For non-displaced fractures, it may take approximately 6-8 weeks for the bone to heal. Displaced fractures or fractures requiring surgery may take 3 to 6 months for full recovery, depending on the complexity.

During the rehabilitation phase, it is essential to follow a structured program that includes:

• Range of motion exercises to restore flexibility.

• Strengthening exercises to regain muscle strength in the forearm and wrist.

• Functional training to help you return to your normal daily activities, including tasks that require wrist mobility and strength.

Book Your Appointment Today

If you have suffered a distal ulnar fracture or suspect that you have one, Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health is here to help. Our experienced team will provide personalized treatment and rehabilitation to ensure your full recovery.

• Malaga: Book here

• Noranda: Book here

Contact Us:

• Malaga: 4/637 Marshall Road, Malaga WA 6090 | Phone: 6285 6185

• Noranda: 3/36 Benara Road, Noranda WA 6062 | Phone: 9376 1443

Let Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health assist you in your recovery from a distal ulnar fracture and help restore the full function of your wrist and forearm.