Can an 11-Year-Old Return to Table Tennis After Wrist Fracture Surgery?

Distal radius fracture of the right wrist?

Hello, Doctor: The patient is an 11-year-old child who underwent surgical fixation with a steel pin for a distal radius fracture in the right wrist two months ago.
Now, two months post-operation, the X-ray shows good bone healing.
May I ask if the child can start playing table tennis? Thank you for your response.
The doctor mentioned that if the fracture has completely healed and there is no joint pain with normal range of motion, then the child can begin exercising.
During the last follow-up, the X-ray still showed a slight crack, but it has significantly improved compared to the large gap (displacement of the growth plate) at the time of injury.
The doctor stated that recovery is at 90%.
Additionally, the doctor mentioned that there is no joint pain; the child reports no pain during regular activities, but occasionally feels a bit of pain if exerting too much force, such as when trying to throw a baseball.
Given this situation, can the child return to practicing table tennis?

Minghua, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/05/12

Dr. Shi Guozheng reply Orthopedics

An 11-year-old child typically has a shorter healing time compared to adults, so it is currently acceptable for them to engage in light exercise.
Mild pain is considered normal.

Reply Date: 2022/05/12

More Info

Returning to sports after an injury, especially for a young athlete, is a significant concern for both the child and their guardians. In the case of your 11-year-old who underwent surgery for a distal radius fracture, there are several factors to consider before resuming table tennis or any other physical activity.

Firstly, it is encouraging to hear that the X-ray shows good healing progress, with the fracture appearing to be 90% healed. This indicates that the bone is likely regaining its strength, which is crucial for any physical activity. However, the presence of a small crack still visible on the X-ray suggests that the bone may not be fully healed yet. It is essential to follow the advice of the treating physician regarding the timing of returning to sports, as they have the most insight into the specifics of the injury and recovery.

The fact that the child experiences some discomfort when exerting themselves, such as throwing a baseball, is also an important consideration. Pain during activity can be a sign that the wrist is not yet ready for the demands of sports. While table tennis is generally less physically demanding than some other sports, it still requires quick wrist movements and can involve sudden, forceful actions that may put stress on the healing bone.

In terms of rehabilitation, it is crucial to ensure that the wrist has regained full range of motion and strength before returning to sports. Engaging in physical therapy can be beneficial, as a therapist can provide exercises that focus on strengthening the wrist and improving flexibility. This process can help mitigate the risk of re-injury and ensure that the child can perform at their best when they return to table tennis.

Additionally, it is essential to monitor for any signs of pain or discomfort during practice. If the child continues to experience pain, it may be wise to delay their return to the sport until they can perform movements without discomfort. The goal should be to ensure that the wrist is not only healed but also functional and strong enough to handle the demands of table tennis.

In conclusion, while the child may be eager to return to table tennis, it is vital to prioritize their long-term health and recovery. Consulting with the treating physician or a sports medicine specialist can provide further guidance on when it is safe to return to play. They may recommend a gradual return to activity, starting with light practice and gradually increasing intensity as the child feels comfortable. This approach can help ensure a safe and effective transition back into sports, minimizing the risk of re-injury and promoting overall well-being.

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Hello, Doctor: The patient is an 11-year-old child who underwent surgical fixation with a steel pin for a distal radius fracture in the right wrist two months ago. The X-ray images show good bone healing at this point. May I ask if the patient can start participating in table ten...

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