Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
-
Chat With Us
+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Injury to the Distal Radial Epiphysis
What is an injury to the distal radius epiphysis?
An injury to the distal radial epiphysis affects the growth plate at the end of the forearm bone and is most commonly seen in younger athletes. These growth plates are areas of developing tissue that are not present in adults. Physiotherapy is an effective treatment for managing and recovering from a distal radial epiphysis injury.
How does an injury to the distal radius epiphysis happen?
During childhood and adolescence, the end of the forearm bone is separated from the main shaft of the bone by a growth plate. This growth plate is responsible for enabling bone growth but also represents a weak point in the bone structure. Repetitive stress on the forearm—particularly through weight-bearing activities—can lead to injury of the growth plate. This is especially common in gymnasts, who frequently place compressive forces through their arms while supporting their body weight.
What are the symptoms of an injury to the distal radius epiphysis?
An injury to the distal radial epiphysis typically causes pain in and just above the back of the wrist joint. This pain is often worsened by extending the wrist, such as when your child leans on their hands. The range of motion in the affected wrist may also be reduced compared to the unaffected side. Other possible symptoms include:
- pain
- reduced range of movement
- swelling/inflamation
- stiffness
- weakness
- numbness
What should I do if my child has an injury to his/her distal radius epiphysis?
If your child has, or you suspect they have, an injury to the distal radial epiphysis, it is important to consult a physiotherapist for a proper assessment. In the meantime, your child should avoid any activities that aggravate or worsen their wrist pain.
Physiotherapy treatment for an injury to the distal radius epiphysis.
Physiotherapy plays a vital role in treating an injury to the distal radial epiphysis. Initially, the physiotherapist can help diagnose the injury and assess its severity, which may involve referral for an X-ray. Based on the findings, an appropriate management plan will be developed. This typically includes a period of rest and activity modification. Once the initial healing phase is complete, the physiotherapist will guide you and your child through a graduated return to full participation in activities. Other treatment options include:
- Wrist support or bracing to reduce strain on the growth plate
- Ice therapy to help manage pain and inflammation
- Range of motion exercises to maintain joint flexibility
- Strengthening exercises to rebuild muscle support once pain subsides
- Postural and technique correction to reduce excessive wrist loading, especially in sports like gymnastics
- Education on activity modification to prevent recurrence of the injury
What shouldn’t I do if my child has an injury to his/her distal radius epiphysis?
If your child has, or you suspect they have, an injury to their distal radial epiphysis, it is important not to ignore the problem. Left untreated, the injury may worsen and significantly prolong recovery. You should also avoid encouraging your child to continue exercising through the pain, as this may lead to further damage and delay healing.
Could there be any long-term effects from an injury to the distal radius epiphysis?
An injury to the distal radial epiphysis typically does not result in any long-term effects if it is appropriately managed. With proper treatment, recovery usually occurs within a matter of weeks.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
Get treated today!
We have immediate appointments available today. Contact us to make an appointment.
Find out more »
We are open...
Our clinics are open:
Mon - Fri: 8am - 8pm
Sat: 8am - 4pm
Sun: On Appointment Basis
Find your nearest clinic
Acephysio Sports have clinics located throughout the Singapore.
Find out more »
