It sounds like the opening to a courtroom drama – Colles versus Smith: a break in the case. But rather than a legal dispute, this one’s all about your wrist. Colles and Smith fractures are two of the most common distal radius fractures – in other words, breaks near the end of your forearm bone, close to the wrist joint.
These fractures may be on opposite sides of the bone, but they both require careful management and rehabilitation. Physiotherapy plays a central role in restoring strength, mobility, and confidence after a wrist injury – whether you’re dealing with a Colles or a Smith.
Call Hunters Hill Physiotherapy on (02) 9816 5092 to book an appointment with one of our physiotherapists and take the first step toward recovery.
What’s the difference between a Colles and a Smith fracture?
Both fractures involve the distal radius – the larger of the two forearm bones – and typically result from a fall. But the direction of the break sets them apart.
Colles fracture: This is the classic “fall onto an outstretched hand” fracture. The distal fragment (the broken piece closest to the wrist) is displaced backwards towards the back of the hand. It often causes a visible “dinner fork” deformity of the wrist.
Smith fracture: Less common, but typically results from falling onto a flexed wrist (or from a direct blow to the back of the wrist). In this case, the distal fragment shifts forwards towards the palm.
Put simply: Colles fractures go backward; Smith fractures go forward.
Who’s at risk?
These fractures can affect anyone, but some groups are more prone:
Smith fractures are more common in younger patients, often due to higher-energy trauma. Colles fractures tend to affect older populations after low-energy falls – like slipping on a wet floor.
Symptoms of a distal radius fracture
You’ll need an X-ray to confirm the type and severity of the fracture – and to help determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
How are these fractures treated?
Treatment depends on how much the bone has shifted out of place:
Regardless of the approach, recovery doesn’t end when the cast comes off – that’s where physiotherapy begins.
The role of physiotherapy in recovery
After a period of immobilisation, it’s common to experience:
Physiotherapy aims to restore movement, strength, and functional use of the wrist and hand. Treatment may include:
We’ll tailor your rehab to your lifestyle – whether you’re returning to sport, typing, or simply turning door handles pain-free.
How long does recovery take?
Everyone heals differently, but typical timelines look like this:
Early movement and progressive rehab can speed recovery and reduce long-term complications like stiffness, chronic pain, or reduced range of motion.
Conclusion
Wrist fractures may look like an open-and-shut case, but the recovery process needs expert care and consistency. Physiotherapy supports your return to full function – not just in the wrist, but in your confidence too.
Call us on (02) 9816 5092 to book an appointment with one of our physiotherapists.
We’re also on Facebook and Instagram — for more tips, rehab advice, and occasional courtroom puns we promise not to object to.
Information provided here (including text, graphics, images, outbound links, and other material) is for informational purposes only. It is general in nature and is not to be used or considered as a substitute for personalised professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified allied health provider regarding any symptoms, medical conditions, or treatments and before undertaking any new health care regimen.
