Clinical Presentation & Protocol
Patient Usually Complains Of
Patient presents with acute right wrist pain following a fall onto an outstretched hand (FOOSH). Reports immediate onset of pain, swelling, and visible deformity. Denies numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation in the digits. No history of prior injury to the right upper extremity.
Clinical Examination Findings
Right wrist examination reveals dorsal angulation and radial shortening (dinner-fork deformity). Significant localized tenderness over the distal radius. Neurovascular status intact: radial pulse 2+, capillary refill <2 seconds, sensation intact to light touch in median, ulnar, and radial nerve distributions. No skin tenting or open wounds noted.
Treatment Protocol
Immobilization with a sugar-tong splint applied to the right upper extremity. Orthopedic consultation requested for potential reduction and fixation. Pain managed with NSAIDs and elevation. Advised to keep splint clean and dry. Follow-up scheduled for repeat radiographs to assess alignment.