This is fracture at the distal end of the radius at its cortico-cancellous junction about 2 cm from the distal articular surface with or without fracture of ulnar styloid. It is also known by “broken deformity and dinner fork deformity”.
Commonest fracture in people above 40 years of age. Common in women because of post-menopausal osteoporosis.
CAUSES
- Road accidents or fall on ground with out-stretched hand
- Trauma on driving car, bike and skiing accidents
- Osteoporosis- a condition which weakens the bone.
CLINICAL FEATURES
- Tenderness and irregularity of the lower end of radius.
- Swelling and pain
- Wrist will be deformed
- Numbness and fingers get discolored
- Complete immobility
RADIOLOGICAL FEATURES
It is important to differentiate this fracture from other fractures like smith fracture or borfous fracture.
This can be detected by using x ray of the joint (AP and Lateral view)
COMPLICATION
- Malunion
- Shortening of radius
- Stiffness in wrist and forearm
- Persistent trans location of carpus
- Disability
- Very rarely carpal tunnel syndrome is seen. That is the median nerve is compressed due to pressure and produce numbness, tingling sensation and weakness in the hand.
- Sedecksosteodystrophy
- Rupture of extensor policies longus tendon
DIAGNOSIS
It is based on clinical features and plain radiograph or X ray.
AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT FOR COLLES FRACTURE
In Ayurveda fracture is described as “bhagna” which occurs to abhighata(injury)that will lead to the aggravation of vata and vititation of raktha. Treatments are given both externally and internally.
Usually internal medicines are given to normalize vata and nourishes the blood, to improve the bone density, reduce swelling and reduce the healing time.
External treatments
- Lepa: local application of medicated paste and oils to reduce the swelling and inflammation
- Bandage: for immobilization- change bandage after 5-7 days
- Rehabilitation therapy: exercises, physiotherapy etc
FIRST AID
- PROTECTION
- REST
- ICE
- COMPRESSION
- ELEVATION This is for first 24-48 hrs.