A Colles fracture is a common injury that occurs when you fall on an outstretched hand (FOOSH), resulting in a break in the distal radius—the bone at the base of your wrist. This type of fracture can be painful and limiting, but with the right care and rehabilitation, you can regain full function and mobility.

What is a Colles Fracture?

A Colles fracture typically happens when you try to break a fall with your hands, leading to a break in the radius bone just above the wrist. This type of fracture often causes the wrist to appear deformed, with the hand tilted upwards—a characteristic “dinner fork” appearance. In some cases, the fracture is displaced, meaning the broken ends of the bone are out of alignment, which may require surgery to correct.

Treatment for a Colles Fracture

Treatment for a Colles fracture usually begins with immobilization. If the fracture is not displaced, your wrist will be set in a cast or splint for about 6 to 8 weeks to allow the bone to heal. In cases where the bone is displaced, surgical intervention may be necessary to realign the bones and stabilize the fracture with plates, screws, or pins.

After the cast is removed, you might notice stiffness, weakness, and reduced mobility in your wrist and hand. This is where physiotherapy plays a crucial role in your recovery.

How Physiotherapy Helps After a Colles Fracture

Physiotherapy is essential for restoring strength, flexibility, and range of motion in your wrist and hand after a Colles fracture. At PhysioActive, we take a comprehensive approach to your rehabilitation, focusing not only on the injured wrist but also on the entire arm, including the elbow and shoulder, to ensure a full and functional recovery.

• Restoring Movement and Strength: Our physiotherapists will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that includes targeted exercises, stretches, and manual therapy techniques. These are designed to gradually restore the strength, flexibility, and range of motion in your wrist and hand, helping you return to your normal activities as quickly and safely as possible.
• Reducing Pain and Swelling: Post-cast, it’s common to experience residual pain and swelling in the affected area. Our therapists use techniques such as manual therapy, ultrasound, and specific exercises to help reduce pain, minimize swelling, and prevent stiffness.
• Preventing Complications: One of the risks after a Colles fracture is the development of complications such as stiffness or muscle weakness. At PhysioActive, we focus on preventing these issues by ensuring that your rehabilitation is thorough and comprehensive. We also provide education on how to perform daily activities safely to avoid re-injury.
• Holistic Approach: What sets PhysioActive apart is our holistic approach to rehabilitation. We don’t just focus on the wrist; we assess and treat the entire kinetic chain, including the elbow and shoulder, to ensure that all related joints and muscles are functioning properly. This approach helps to prevent compensatory issues and ensures a smoother, more complete recovery.
• Personalized Care: At PhysioActive, we understand that every injury and every person is unique. That’s why we tailor our treatment plans to your specific needs and goals, ensuring that you receive the care that’s right for you.

Why Choose PhysioActive?

Choosing PhysioActive means choosing a team that is dedicated to your recovery, with a focus on personalized care and holistic treatment. We are committed to helping you regain full function, reduce pain, and return to the activities you love with confidence.

If you’ve suffered a Colles fracture, don’t wait to start your recovery. Contact PhysioActive today to schedule your assessment and begin your journey to full recovery. We’re here to support you every step of the way.