Description The forearm is the ...
Description
The forearm is the area of the body between the elbow and the wrist. The forearm is made up of two bones called the radius and ulna. A forearm fracture is a common fracture for all age groups and usually occurs due to direct trauma, such as falling on the arm. Treatment depends on the location, severity of the injury and age of the patient. The fracture can damage adjacent nerves and blood vessels.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include pain, arm deformity, inability to move the arm, arm swelling, numbness, and tenderness.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical will be performed. The diagnosis is usually confirmed with an X-ray.
Tests:
X-ray
Specialists:
Orthopedic Surgery, Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Trauma Surgery
Workup:
A history and physical will be performed. The diagnosis is usually confirmed with an X-ray.
Tests:
X-ray
Specialists:
Orthopedic Surgery, Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Trauma Surgery
Treatment
The type of treatment depends on the location of the injury, severity of the fracture and the age of the patient. Nonoperative care includes immobilization with splinting or casting. The patient may need a closed reduction or surgery with an open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) of the injured bones. Hardware may be applied in surgery to keep the bones aligned until the body heals the fracture.