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Broken wrist

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Skeletal view of forearm and hand, with detail of broken wrist

A broken wrist (distal radius fracture) is a break in one or more of the bones that connect your forearm to your hand. Wrist fractures can range from a small, hairline crack to a bone or bones broken into two or more pieces.

Current as of: June 26, 2019

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review: William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine

Is it an emergency?

If you or someone in your care has chest pains, difficulty breathing, or severe bleeding, it could be a life-threatening emergency. Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number immediately.
If you are concerned about a possible poisoning or exposure to a toxic substance, call Poison Control now at 1-800-567-8911.

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