Definition

A forearm fracture is when one or both of the bones of the forearm suffer a partial or complete break. the bones of the forearm are the Radius and Ulna.

Parts Involved

• Ulna and Radius bones

• joints of the wrist and elbow

• soft tissues that surround the injury site such as nerve, blood vessels, periosteum and ligaments

Signs & Symptoms

• Severe arm pain experienced at the time of the injury

• swelling in the area of the fracture

• If the fracture is a complete break then a deformity will be visible in the area of the fracture

• tenderness upon palpation

• if the blood supply & nerves are impaired from the fracture then numbness and coldness may be experienced

Risks

• contact sports

• Bone disease such as osteoporosis

• inadequate nutrition

• lack of calcium and vitamin D in the diet

Prevention

If contact sports are being played then the proper arm protection is essential to help avoid possible forearm fractures. It is also very important to strengthen the muscles of the forearm and to maintain aduquate flexibility of the ligaments and tendons of the forearm to prevent injury.

If you think you have suffered a forearm fracture it is important that you administer first aid right away. You will want to stay warm to avoid going into shock, you will also want to stabilize the arm to help prevent movement of the broken bones. The R.I.C.E principles should be applied, and then you should seek medical help.

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