Fracture of the mid-forearm - Fracture of ulna and radius

It is the fracture of one or both bones of the forearm, the ulna and/or the radius, through the middle section called the shaft (diaphysis). It usually results from a direct impact on the forearm from an object or hard surface while playing a contact sport or during a defensive action in an assault.

It presents with pain and swelling of the forearm and a bruise in the area of the fracture. If the fracture is closed, a deformity of the limb may be observed, whereas if it is an open fracture, the bones may be visible through the wound in the skin. The pain is usually very intense, increases on palpating the forearm and limits movement of the limb.

The diagnosis is clinical, as the history of trauma coincides with the acute onset of symptoms, but X-rays must be taken to confirm the suspicion and determine the extent of the injury.

Treatment aims to relieve pain as soon as possible and includes painkillers and realigning the broken bones. Aligning the bones can be done through manual manoeuvres or may require surgery. When the doctor repositions the bones without the need for surgery, a plaster cast must be worn for 4 to 6 weeks to keep them in place. In patients who need surgery to put the bone fragments back in place, nails, screws, rods or plates are used to fix them; a splint is worn for 6 weeks to provide stability to the newly operated forearm.