Definition

A forearm fracture is a break in one or both bones of the forearm.

Forearm Fracture with Swelling Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes

This injury is caused by trauma from:

• Fall on an outstretched hand
• Direct blow to the forearm
• An object in the air that hits the forearm
• A motor vehicle accident

Risk Factors

Things that may raise the risk of this injury are:

• Playing contact sports
• Health problems that weaken bones, such as osteoporosis
• Health problems that result in falls, such as weak muscles

Symptoms

A forearm fracture may cause:

• Pain that is worse when moving the arm
• Swelling and bruising
• Problems moving the arm
• A change in the way the arm looks

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms, past health, and injury. An exam will be done that focuses on your arm. Images may be taken of the arm. This can be done with:

• X-ray
• MRI scan
• CT scan

Treatment

How it is treated depends on whether the injury is mild or severe. Mild fractures may take 4 to 6 weeks, more severe fractures can take up to 12 weeks.

Children's bones have growth plates that let bones grow and harden with age. A child with this type of fracture will need to be checked over time to make sure the bone heals the right way and keeps growing.

Prevention

Most fractures are due to accidents. Healthy bones and muscles may prevent injury. This may be done through diet and exercise.