What is the first treatment for a distal radius fracture?

A distal radius fracture is a break near the wrist end of the forearm bone. The wrist is examined for swelling, skin injury, circulation and nerve function, usually with imaging to understand alignment. The arm may be supported while swelling settles. If the fragments are displaced, [Closed Reduction](/treatments/trauma-and-fracture-care/closed-reduction/) gently restores position without an incision.

Keep the wrist supported, raise the hand when practical and move the fingers gently unless told otherwise. Do not push the wrist back into place or remove a cast yourself. A stable injury may be treated with [Fracture Casting](/treatments/trauma-and-fracture-care/fracture-casting/). Once healing allows, [Hand Therapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/hand-therapy/) helps restore motion and grip.

Seek urgent care for an open wound, severe deformity, uncontrolled pain, numbness, or fingers that become cold, pale or blue. Get prompt review if a cast feels tight, swelling increases, or finger movement becomes difficult. Some unstable fractures need [Fracture Fixation Surgery](/treatments/trauma-and-fracture-care/fracture-fixation-surgery/) to hold the alignment.

Is the fracture aligned and stable? Will I need reduction? How should I protect the cast or splint? Which finger movements are safe, and when will follow-up imaging check position?