A wrist fracture, also commonly known as a broken wrist, is one of the most common bone injuries seen in hospitals and clinics across Singapore. Whether caused by a sports accident, a fall, or a traffic incident, fractures in the wrist can significantly impact hand function, mobility, and daily routines. While some may think it’s just a simple break, the wrist is a complex structure made up of multiple bones, and not all wrist fractures are the same.
In this article, we will cover the different types of wrist fractures, early warning signs, treatment options available in Singapore, and wrist fracture healing times so you know what to expect during recovery.
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What Is a Wrist Fracture?
A wrist fracture happens when one or more of the bones in your wrist break due to trauma, overuse, or underlying bone weakness. In most cases, the fracture involves the distal radius, which is the part of the radius bone closest to your hand. This type of fracture is especially common when someone falls onto an outstretched hand.
However, a wrist fracture can also affect other bones. The ulna, the second forearm bone beside the radius, may break and often does so at the same time. Additionally, the wrist joint contains eight small carpal bones, and any of these can fracture depending on the type of injury.
Understanding which bone is affected helps doctors determine the best course of treatment, as each type of wrist fracture can vary in severity, symptoms, and recovery time.
Common Signs and Symptoms of a Wrist Fracture
Recognising the symptoms early is important for proper treatment. Signs of a fractured wrist may include:
- Sudden, severe wrist pain after a fall or impact
- Swelling and tenderness around the wrist
- Difficulty moving the wrist or fingers
- A visible deformity (bent or crooked appearance)
- Bruising or discolouration
- Numbness or tingling in the fingers (if nerves are affected)
If you suspect a fracture, consult an orthopaedic specialist as soon as possible for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Types of Wrist Fractures
Wrist fractures are classified by the location and type of break. Some of the most common include:
- Distal Radius Fracture: The most frequent type, often caused by falling onto an outstretched hand.
- Colles’ Fracture: A specific distal radius fracture where the broken bone tilts upwards.
- Smith’s Fracture: Another type of distal radius fracture, but with the bone tilting downwards.
- Scaphoid Fracture: A break in one of the small carpal bones, common in young adults and sports injuries.
- Ulnar Styloid Fracture: A break at the end of the ulna, sometimes accompanying a distal radius fracture.
- Comminuted Fracture: The bone breaks into several pieces, typically due to high-impact trauma.
- Open or Compound Fracture: The broken bone pierces through the skin, requiring urgent medical care.
How Is a Wrist Fracture Diagnosed in Singapore?
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Doctors typically perform a physical examination followed by imaging tests:
- X-rays to identify the type and extent of the break
- CT scans or MRI in complex or unclear cases
- Bone density testing may be recommended for older adults to assess osteoporosis risk
Wrist Fracture Treatment in Singapore
Treatment depends on the type, severity, and alignment of the fracture. Options include:
1. Non-Surgical Treatment
- Casting or splinting: For stable fractures where bones are still aligned
- Closed reduction: The doctor manually realigns the bone before applying a cast
- Pain relief medication: Over-the-counter or prescription NSAIDs
- Follow-up X-rays: To ensure the bone is healing correctly
2. Surgical Treatment
Surgery may be necessary if the bone is displaced, fragmented, or unstable. Surgical options include:
- Internal fixation using plates, screws, or pins to hold bones in place
- External fixation, where a frame stabilises the bone from outside the body
- Bone grafting in cases of severe loss of bone structure
Most surgeries today are performed using minimally invasive techniques, which help reduce pain and promote faster recovery.
Estimated Cost of Wrist Fracture Treatment
Here’s a general cost estimate for wrist fracture care in Singapore:
Treatment Type | Estimated Cost (SGD) | Notes |
Specialist Consultation | 120 – 250 | Initial or follow-up appointment with an orthopaedic specialist |
X-ray Imaging | 80 – 150 | Typically required for diagnosis |
MRI or CT Scan (if needed) | 800 – 1,500 | Used for complex fractures or surgical planning |
Cast or Splint Application | 150 – 300 | For stable, non-displaced fractures |
Day Surgery (Public Subsidised Rate) | 2,600 – 4,000 | Includes minor surgical procedures like fracture realignment or fixation |
Inpatient Surgery (Public Ward B2) | 2,300 – 3,500 | For more complex fractures needing admission |
Private Hospital Surgery | 25,000 – 35,000 | Includes operating theatre, implants, surgeon and anaesthetist fees |
Surgeon’s Professional Fees (Private) | 7,800 – 11,000 | Based on MOH private fee benchmarks |
Anaesthetist Fee (Private) | 1,700 – 2,500 | Varies with duration and complexity |
Physiotherapy (per session) | 80 – 150 | Recommended post-cast or post-surgery |
Wrist Fracture Healing Time
Healing time depends on several factors, including the patient’s age, bone health, type of fracture, and treatment approach.
- Simple fractures: 6 to 8 weeks for bone healing, followed by physiotherapy
- Surgical cases: 8 to 12 weeks or more, with rehabilitation
- Severe fractures: Up to 6 months for full function to return
Physiotherapy is often recommended after cast or surgery removal to restore strength, flexibility, and range of motion.
When to See an Orthopaedic Specialist
Wrist fractures are more than just a broken bone. Understanding the types of wrist fractures, recognizing early signs, and getting the right treatment are key to a smooth and full recovery.
If you’re in Singapore and dealing with wrist pain or have recently injured your wrist, don’t wait. Click the button below to schedule an appointment with our preferred orthopaedic specialist who can guide you through diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation.
Preferred Orthopaedic Specialist (Upper Limbs): Dr Bryan Wang
Preferred Orthopaedic Specialist (Lower Limbs): Dr Ananda Vella
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