Complications After a Wrist Fracture: Seeking Help for Numbness

Right radial fracture from a car accident on November 1st?

Initially, the hospital's emergency department immobilized my right hand with a splint, and my hand was quite swollen.
After taking a week off, I returned to work.
Following a client's suggestion, I sought treatment from a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner.
On November 11, during the consultation, the practitioner pulled apart my five fingers on the right hand.
Since I have a fractured radius, I cried out in pain when my thumb was pulled.
Immediately afterward, the swelling in my hand began to gradually subside.
I also received acupuncture and electrical therapy.
However, by that evening, my hand started to feel a bit numb.
I initially thought it was a side effect of the acupuncture, but the numbness progressed from mild to severe.
Currently, all five fingers have been numb for over half a month, with the thumb and index finger, extending to the entire palm, being the most affected.

During my third visit to the traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, there was some response, but the doctor did not provide a reasonable explanation.
I would like to ask if my hand was possibly injured by the practitioner pulling it.
Given that it was the 11th day post-fracture, could the manipulation have affected my healing? My fracture has not yet healed, and my hand continues to experience numbness and pain.
What treatment should I pursue next to recover my hand? I am seeking help, thank you.

Tongzhen, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/11/29

Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics

Hello, pulling your fingers should not be related to hand numbness.
In the case of a distal radius fracture, if there is displacement, it is possible that it could compress the median nerve.
You should visit an orthopedic outpatient clinic for evaluation of potential nerve compression, which mostly can recover.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Wang Shou-ji.

Reply Date: 2023/11/29

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing significant complications following your wrist fracture, particularly with numbness and pain in your fingers and hand. This can be concerning, especially since you mentioned that the numbness has persisted for over two weeks. Let's break down your situation and explore what might be happening and what steps you can take moving forward.

Firstly, after a wrist fracture, it is not uncommon to experience swelling and discomfort as the body begins the healing process. However, the numbness you are describing, particularly if it has been ongoing for more than a couple of weeks, could indicate a few potential issues that need to be addressed.

1. Nerve Compression or Injury: The wrist is home to several important nerves, including the median nerve, which can be affected by swelling or improper positioning after a fracture. If the swelling is significant, it can compress these nerves, leading to symptoms like numbness, tingling, or pain. This is often seen in conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, where the median nerve is compressed at the wrist.

2. Improper Healing: If the fracture is not healing correctly, or if there is misalignment, this could also lead to complications. The manipulation performed by the traditional Chinese medicine practitioner could have potentially exacerbated an existing issue, especially if the fracture was not fully stabilized or if there was excessive force applied during treatment.

3. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): This is a rare but serious condition that can develop after an injury, characterized by prolonged pain and changes in the skin, hair, and nails. Symptoms can include swelling, changes in skin color, and persistent pain that is disproportionate to the injury.

Given these possibilities, it is crucial to take the following steps:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: If you have not already done so, it is important to consult with an orthopedic specialist or a hand surgeon. They can perform a thorough examination, possibly including imaging studies like X-rays or an MRI, to assess the healing of your fracture and check for any nerve involvement.

- Avoid Further Manipulation: Until you have a clear diagnosis, it would be wise to avoid any further manipulation or treatment from practitioners who are not specialized in orthopedic care. This includes avoiding any further acupuncture or physical therapy that could potentially aggravate your condition.

- Consider Physical Therapy: Once you have been evaluated by a specialist, they may recommend physical therapy to help regain strength and mobility in your hand and wrist. A physical therapist can provide targeted exercises and modalities to reduce pain and improve function.

- Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close eye on your symptoms. If you notice any worsening of numbness, increased pain, or changes in color or temperature of your hand, seek immediate medical attention.

In summary, while some numbness and discomfort can be expected after a wrist fracture, persistent symptoms warrant further investigation. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider who specializes in musculoskeletal injuries to ensure you receive the appropriate care and treatment. Your hand's functionality and your overall recovery depend on addressing these complications promptly and effectively.

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