Old distal radius fracture

[wotstheguts]

Doctors,

I am 39 years of age and broke my right wrist in 1988 (when I was 19) due to a fall. My doctor described it at the time as "a fracture of the distal extremity of the raius with posterior angulation of the distal extremity with respect to the shaft" (x-ray attached). At the time, no attempt was made to reset the bone; the nurse simply applied a cast. As a result, it healed with a visible deformity and caused significant pain and restricted movement in my wrist and hand for several months. At the time I was told they could try rebreaking it but I may end up with nerve damage or even worse mobility, so I opted to let it be.

It has generally been usable over the last 20 years, with occasional numbness and pain. However, in the last year it has started to give me a lot of pain during almost any activity, and is very weak. I have had to give up all sports, and even writing and typing are very painful, so I have also had to give in my career as a computer network engineer.

My question is, is it possible, at this late stage, to have surgery to correct the problem? I would hope that technology and knowledge have advanced somewhat in the last 20 years. But perhaps my wrist has now degenerated to the point that nothing can be done?

Thank-you very much in advance for your advice.

[wotstheguts]

Thanks very much for your reply Dr Simran. I'll get a referral to a surgeon. Aside from the nerve damage, do you think it's possible to reset the fracture?

Regards.

[dr_simran]

Hello wotstheguts,

It seem that you been having some micro damage to the nerves over the long period of time. I suggest that you consider to consult a micro vascular surgeon and a neurologist to evaluate the neuropathic damage which has set over the period of time and secondly explore the possibility of neuron regenerative techniques available as of date.

Best