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Hidden Dangers: Risk Factors for Overlooked Wrist Fractures
Published: Aug 10, 2024
Certain wrist fractures, like those of the trapezium and trapezoid, are often missed. Understanding the risk factors can help patients and doctors catch these elusive injuries early.
High-Energy Trauma: More Than Meets the Eye
Falls from a height, motor vehicle accidents, and sports injuries involving high-speed impacts are major risk factors for complex wrist fractures. These high-energy traumas can cause multiple injuries, making it easy to overlook small bone fractures. The force involved can lead to fractures of the trapezium or trapezoid, often in conjunction with more obvious injuries.
Osteoporosis: Weakening the Foundation
Individuals with osteoporosis are at increased risk for all types of fractures, including those of small wrist bones. The decreased bone density makes even relatively minor falls more likely to result in fractures. Postmenopausal women and older adults are particularly susceptible to osteoporosis-related wrist fractures.
Occupational and Sports-Related Risks
Certain occupations and sports put individuals at higher risk for wrist fractures. Jobs involving repetitive wrist motions or the use of vibrating tools can weaken bones over time. Contact sports, gymnastics, and activities like skateboarding or snowboarding increase the risk of falls onto an outstretched hand, a common mechanism for trapezium and trapezoid fractures.
Delayed Diagnosis: The Snowball Effect
Perhaps the most significant risk factor for complications from trapezium and trapezoid fractures is delayed diagnosis. These fractures are often missed on initial X-rays, leading to improper treatment. Patients who continue to have pain after being told they don't have a fracture should seek a second opinion or request advanced imaging. Delayed treatment can lead to chronic pain, arthritis, and decreased function.
Frequently Asked Questions
Women, especially post-menopause, due to higher rates of osteoporosis.
Yes, it can contribute to weaker bones and higher fracture risk.
Yes, some genetic conditions can affect bone density and strength.
Yes, especially if they led to weakened bones or altered mechanics.
Yes, risk increases with age due to decreasing bone density.
Knowledge is Power
Understanding these risk factors empowers patients and doctors to be more vigilant, potentially catching tricky wrist fractures before they cause long-term problems.
References
- Komura S, Yokoi T, Nonomura H, et al. Incidence and characteristics of carpal fractures occurring concurrently with distal radius fractures. J Hand Surg Am 2012; 37:469.
- Cassidy C, Ruby LK. Fractures and dislocations of the carpus. In: Skeletal Trauma: Basic Science, Management, and Reconstruction, 5th ed, Browner BD, Jupiter JB, Krettek C, Anderson PA (Eds), Saunders, Philadelphia 2015.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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