Fractured/Broken Wrist

Overview

What Is a Fractured/Broken Wrist?

A fractured or broken wrist occurs when one or more of the bones in the wrist break. This may happen following a fall on an outstretched hand, direct impact, or other traumatic injuries. Wrist fractures are classified based on which bone(s) are broken, and the severity of the break can range from a simple crack to a complex, displaced fracture.

Anatomy of the Wrist: Bones Involved in Wrist Fractures

The wrist consists of 8 small carpal bones and two bones in the forearm that contribute to wrist movement. The bones most commonly involved in wrist fractures are:

  • Radius: The larger bone in the forearm, on the thumb side. The distal radius is often broken in a wrist fracture, known as a distal radius fracture (e.g., Colles’ fracture).
  • Ulna: The smaller forearm bone, on the pinky side. A fracture here is often associated with a radius fracture.
  • Scaphoid: A small carpal bone near the base of the thumb. A scaphoid fracture often occurs after a fall on an outstretched hand and can be difficult to heal due to limited blood supply.
  • Other carpal bones (such as the lunate, triquetrum, etc.) are less commonly involved in wrist fractures but can be fractured in more severe trauma.

How Common Are Wrist Fractures?

Fractures in wrist bones are among the most common bone fractures, especially in children, adolescents, and older adults. They account for up to 10-25% of all fractures. Among older adults, wrist fractures are particularly common in those with osteoporosis, as weakened bones are more susceptible to breaking from even minor falls.

The distal radius fracture is the most common type of wrist fracture, especially in individuals who fall on their hand as they extend it to break a fall. 

Access Ortho offers urgent care for all wrist fractures. 

Types of Wrist Fractures

  • Distal Radius Fractures:
    • The most common type of wrist fracture, it is often caused by a fall on an outstretched hand.
    • Includes specific types like:
      • Colles’ Fracture: The radius breaks near the wrist, with the broken fragment tilting upward.
      • Smith’s Fracture: The broken fragment of the radius tilts downward.
  • Scaphoid Fractures:
    • Involves the scaphoid bone, one of the small carpal bones that is near the base of the thumb.
    • Often caused by a fall on an outstretched hand.
    • It can be difficult to detect and heal due to limited blood supply to the bone.
  • Other Carpal Bone Fractures:
    • Less common but can include fractures of bones like the lunate, triquetrum, or hamate.
    • Usually result from more severe trauma and may be associated with other injuries, such as ligament damage.

Symptoms and Causes

What causes wrist fractures?

Wrist fractures occur when a strong force is applied to the bones in the wrist, overwhelming their ability to withstand the impact. The most common causes are trauma or falls, which can lead to different types of fractures depending on the direction and intensity of the force.

Common Injury Mechanisms

  • Falls on an Outstretched Hand (FOOSH): The most common cause, particularly when someone tries to break their fall with their hands, which transmits the force directly to the wrist.
  • Direct Trauma or Impact: A direct blow to the wrist from accidents (e.g., car accidents) or collisions can result in fractures.
  • Twisting Injuries: Twisting forces to the wrist and arm can cause fractures. These are commonly seen in the radius and carpal bones.

Sports

Injuries: Sports such as cycling, skateboarding and roller skating that involve falls, impact, or high-speed movement 

  • may lead to wrist fractures.
  • Contact Sports: Football, rugby, or martial arts can lead to fractures from falls, collisions, or direct blows.
  • Winter Sports: Activities like skiing or snowboarding often lead to falls, with the wrist being a common point of impact.

Fall-Related Wrist Fractures

  • Slips and Falls: Especially common among older adults with osteoporosis or poor balance, a fall from standing height onto an outstretched hand can easily result in a wrist fracture.
  • High-Energy Falls: Falls from a significant height (e.g., from ladders or stairs) can cause more severe wrist fractures, often involving multiple bones.

Access Ortho is an urgent Fracture Clinic that provides specialist care for all wrist fractures.

Fractured Wrist
Fractured Wrists are common in cycling accidents

What are the risk factors for wrist fractures?

  • Age-Related Risks:
    • Children and Adolescents: More prone to wrist fractures due to frequent falls and high activity levels. Growth plates in children’s bones are more susceptible to injury.
    • Older Adults: As people age, their bones become more brittle, making wrist fractures common, especially from minor falls.
  • Osteoporosis and Wrist Fractures:
    • Osteoporosis weakens bones, increasing the likelihood of fractures, especially in older adults.
    • Even low-impact trauma, like falling from a standing position, can result in a fracture in individuals with osteoporosis.
  • Occupational Hazards:
    • Jobs involving manual labour or high-risk activities (e.g., construction, factory work, or professions with repetitive wrist strain) may increase the risk of wrist fractures.
    • Workers in environments with a higher likelihood of falls, such as those who work at heights or in slippery conditions, are also at greater risk.

Access Ortho offers orthopaedic care for adults and children with fractures. 

What are the symptoms of a fractured wrist?

Following a fall or accident, the following signs and symptoms may indicate a fracture. If you have concerns, Contact Access Ortho Fracture Clinic. Access Ortho offers expertise in all upper and lower limb fractures. 

Immediate Signs and Symptoms:

  • Severe Pain: Immediate and severe pain in the wrist, especially when trying to move or use the hand.
  • Swelling: Rapid swelling around the wrist area, which may extend into the hand or forearm.
  • Bruising: Discoloration or bruising around the wrist, which may develop shortly after the injury.
  • Deformity: The wrist may appear visibly bent or misaligned if the fracture is severe or displaced.
  • Difficulty Moving the Wrist: Limited range of motion, or an inability to move the wrist or hand without extreme pain.
  • Tenderness: The wrist may be tender especially over the fracture site.

Delayed Symptoms to Watch For:

  • Numbness or Tingling: This can develop if there is nerve involvement or swelling affecting nearby nerves.
  • Stiffness: As swelling subsides, stiffness in the wrist and hand can become more noticeable.
  • Weakness: The hand or wrist may feel weak or difficult to use for everyday tasks, even after the initial injury.

Persistent Pain: Ongoing pain after the injury, especially during wrist movements, may indicate healing complications or incomplete fracture healing.

Fractured Wrist
Wrist Pain and decreased movement are common symptoms of wrist
fractures.

What are the complications of wrist fractures?

It is important to seek orthopaedic care for all fractures. Complications can occur. Access Ortho provides orthopaedic-led care for the assessment and treatment of fractures. 

Short-Term Complications:

  • Nerve or Blood Vessel Damage: A severe fracture may injure surrounding nerves or blood vessels, leading to numbness, tingling, or impaired circulation.
  • Infection: In the case of an open fracture (this is when the bone breaks through the skin), there is a risk of infection.
  • Compartment Syndrome: This occurs when due to swelling there is increased pressure within the muscles of the forearm. This can cause severe pain and further damage to nerves and blood vessels if not treated quickly.
  • Loss of Motion or Strength: Immediately after a fracture, stiffness and weakness in the wrist or hand are common.

Long-Term Complications and Sequelae:

  • Malunion or Nonunion: If the bone heals improperly (malunion) or fails to heal (nonunion), it can lead to permanent deformity or loss of function.
  • Chronic Pain: Persistent pain may develop due to improper healing, arthritis, or damage to surrounding soft tissues.
  • Post-Traumatic Arthritis: Damage to the joint surfaces from the fracture may lead to osteoarthritis over time, causing stiffness and pain.
  • Loss of Mobility: Long-term stiffness or reduced range of motion may occur, especially if physiotherapy is not followed or the injury is severe.
  • Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS): A rare but serious complication where prolonged pain and swelling occur, sometimes after the initial injury has healed.

Diagnosis and Tests

How are wrist fractures diagnosed?

The medical team will carry out an examination and take a thorough medical history in order to provide an accurate diagnosis. Radiology will also be used to assess the injury. 

Physical Examination Techniques:

  • Visual Inspection: The medical practitioner looks for signs of swelling, bruising, deformity, or open wounds around the wrist.
  • Palpation: The injured area is gently pressed to identify points of tenderness and locate the fracture.
  • Range of Motion Tests: The patient may be asked to try moving their wrist, fingers, or forearm to assess pain levels and mobility limitations.
  • Neurovascular Assessment: Checking for any numbness, tingling, or weakness, and ensuring that blood flow is not compromised in the wrist or hand.

Importance of Medical History:

  • Injury Details: It is important to get information about how the injury occurred (e.g., fall or direct impact). This helps determine the type and severity of the fracture.
  • Past Injuries: A history of previous wrist fractures or bone conditions like osteoporosis can affect the diagnosis and treatment plan.
  • Pre-existing Conditions: Conditions such as osteoporosis, arthritis, or a history of fractures may influence the likelihood of a fracture and its healing potential.
  • Symptoms: The patient’s description of pain, loss of function, and other symptoms help narrow down the suspected fracture site and determine whether additional structures (like nerves or tendons) are involved.

The staff at Access Ortho are trained in the assessment and management of orthopaedic injuries and provide specialist fracture care. 

Which tests do providers use to diagnose wrist fractures?

Radiology is very helpful in diagnosing wrist fractures. Access Ortho will refer for the required X-rays and scans and is conveniently located close to radiology centres. 

X-Rays for Wrist Fractures:

  • Primary Diagnostic Tool: X-rays are the first and most common imaging test for diagnosing wrist fractures. They provide clear images of the bones, helping to confirm the fracture’s presence, type, and location.
  • Multiple Views: X-rays are often taken from different angles (front, side, and oblique) to get a complete view of the wrist and identify any displacement or fragment alignment issues.

CT Scans and MRI in Wrist Fracture Diagnosis:

  • CT Scans:
    • Used when more detailed imaging is needed, especially in complex or comminuted fractures (where the bone is broken into multiple pieces).
    • It is helpful for evaluating fractures involving the smaller carpal bones or joints, where standard X-rays may not provide enough detail.
  • MRI:
    • Used to assess soft tissue injuries (e.g., ligaments, tendons) that may accompany wrist fractures.
    • It can detect subtle fractures, like scaphoid fractures, that may not be visible on initial X-rays, especially in the early stages.
    • Important for diagnosing occult fractures (hidden fractures) that don’t appear clearly on X-rays.

Bone Scans: When Are They Necessary?

  • Bone Scans are typically used when:
    • A wrist fracture is suspected, but initial X-rays and other imaging tests don’t clearly show the break.
    • The patient has persistent wrist pain after a negative X-ray, as bone scans can detect stress fractures or fractures that are slow to heal.
    • They are less commonly used than X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs but can be useful in delayed diagnosis or if multiple areas of bone damage are suspected.

Management and Treatment

How are wrist fractures treated?

Access Ortho offers Urgent Care for fractures. The specialist orthopaedic team at Access Ortho will be able to advise you on the best treatment for your injury. Access Ortho stocks a range of casts in the clinic, including thermoplasting, plaster and fibreglass casts. If your injury requires a custom cast, Access Ortho will arrange a referral and appointment for this with a hand therapist we work closely with. If your injury requires surgery, Access Ortho will discuss this with you and find a surgeon to operate. If you require physiotherapy or hand therapy after your injury, the team at Access Ortho will assist you to find a therapist and arrange a referral. 

 Access Ortho will ensure you receive specialist orthopaedic care for your injury. 

Conservative Treatment Options:

  • Immobilisation:
    • Casts or Splints: For non-displaced or stable fractures, the wrist is immobilised with a cast or splint to allow the bones to heal. The duration depends on the severity of the fracture, typically ranging from 4 to 6 weeks.
    • Braces: Sometimes used after initial casting to provide additional support as healing progresses.
  • Pain Management:
    • Over-the-Counter Medications: Pain relief with medications such as ibuprofen or paracetamol.
    • Ice Therapy: Applying ice to the injury helps reduce swelling and pain in the initial days.
  • Activity Modifications:
    • Avoiding activities that stress the wrist during healing to prevent further injury.

Surgical Interventions for Wrist Fractures:

  • Open Reduction and Internal Fixation (ORIF):
    • Used for displaced or unstable fractures. In this procedure, the bone is repositioned (reduced) and secured using metal plates, screws, or pins to ensure proper alignment during healing.
  • External Fixation:
    • For severe fractures with significant displacement, an external fixator (a stabilising device placed outside the body) may be used to hold the bones in place while they heal.
  • Percutaneous Pinning:
    • Pins are inserted through the skin to hold the fractured bones in place. This is less invasive than ORIF but is used in specific cases, often for simple fractures.
  • Bone Grafting:
    • In rare cases when required a bone graft may be used to assist healing.

Rehabilitation and Physiotherapy / Hand Therapy for Wrist Fractures:

  • Early Movement:
    • Once the fracture begins to heal and immobilisation is no longer necessary, early gentle movements are encouraged to maintain flexibility and avoid stiffness.
  • Strengthening Exercises:
    • Physiotherapy/hand therapy focuses on exercises that restore strength to the wrist and hand muscles after immobilisation. Gradually increasing the intensity helps to regain full function.
  • Range of Motion Exercises:
    • Therapists guide patients through exercises to improve the wrist’s range of motion, helping prevent long-term stiffness or limited movement.
  • Pain Management:
    • Techniques such as heat therapy, massage, and controlled exercise can help reduce residual pain and improve healing outcomes.
  • Functional Recovery:
    • Physiotherapy/hand therapy aims to restore full function and strength to the wrist, allowing the patient to return to normal activities or work.
Casts and slings are used to immobilize wrist fractures to ensure healing in a good
position occurs.

Prevention

How can I prevent wrist fractures?

Fall Prevention Strategies:

  • Improve Balance: Regular balance exercises and activities like yoga can reduce the risk of falls, especially in older adults.
  • Home Safety: Remove tripping hazards, use non-slip mats, and ensure adequate lighting to prevent falls at home.
  • Footwear: Wearing supportive, non-slip shoes can reduce the chance of slipping.

Strengthening Exercises for Wrist Health:

  • Wrist and forearm Strengthening: Exercises like wrist curls, grip strengthening, and using resistance bands can build muscle around the wrist, providing more support and stability.
  • Bone Health: Weight-bearing exercises (e.g., walking, lifting weights) can help improve bone density, which will reduce the risk of fractures.

Protective Gear in Sports and High-Risk Activities:

  • Wrist Guards: Using wrist guards during sports like skateboarding, snowboarding, or rollerblading helps absorb impact and reduce the risk of fractures in falls.
  • Proper Sports Technique: Learning correct techniques in high-impact sports can prevent injuries by distributing force more evenly across the body.

Outlook / Prognosis

What to expect if I have a wrist fracture?

Short-Term Recovery Milestones:

  • Initial Pain Management: Expect pain and swelling immediately after the injury. Pain management with medications and ice therapy will be crucial in the first few days.
  • Immobilisation Period: Typically, the wrist is immobilised with a cast or splint for about 4 to 6 weeks, during which you may notice a gradual reduction in swelling and pain.
  • Follow-Up Visits: Regular follow-up appointments will be necessary to monitor healing through X-rays and adjust treatment as needed. Access Ortho offers follow-up care in our clinics. 
  • Early Motion: Once healing begins (usually within a few weeks), your doctor may recommend gentle range of motion exercises to prevent stiffness.

Long-Term Prognosis and Functionality:

  • Full Recovery: Most individuals can expect to regain full function of their wrist within 3 to 6 months, although complete healing of the bone may take longer, especially for complex fractures.
  • Potential Complications: While many people heal without issues, some may experience complications such as stiffness, chronic pain, or arthritis, particularly if the fracture is severe or not properly aligned during healing.
  • Return to Activities: You should be able to return to normal activities and sports, though high-impact activities may need to be approached cautiously and gradually reintroduced.
  • Long-Term Strength and Mobility: Physiotherapy and rehabilitation aims to restore strength and range of motion, with many people regaining their pre-injury wrist functionality. However, depending on the severity of the fracture and individual healing processes, some may notice slight limitations in movement or strength.

What is the recovery time from a fractured wrist?

Factors Affecting Recovery Time:

  • Type of Fracture: The complexity and location of the fracture significantly influence recovery time. Simple, non-displaced fractures generally heal faster than complex or displaced ones.
  • Age: Younger individuals tend to heal quicker due to better bone density and regenerative capabilities, while older adults may experience longer recovery times, especially if they have osteoporosis.
  • Overall Health: Chronic health conditions, for example diabetes or osteoporosis, can slow the healing process. Nutritional status also plays a role; adequate nutrition is essential for bone healing.
  • Treatment Method: Surgical interventions may lead to a longer initial recovery phase due to postoperative healing requirements compared to conservative treatment methods (like casting).
  • Rehabilitation: Engaging in physiotherapy and following rehabilitation protocols can significantly enhance recovery speed and effectiveness.

Timeline for Different Types of Wrist Fractures:

  • Distal Radius Fractures:
    • Non-Displaced: Typically heals in about 4 to 6 weeks in a cast, with full recovery taking around 3 to 4 months.
    • Displaced or Complex: May require surgery and take 6 to 12 weeks for healing, with full recovery extending to 6 months or more.
  • Scaphoid Fractures:
    • Due to a limited blood supply, they often take longer to heal. Initial immobilisation lasts 6 to 12 weeks; full recovery may take 4 to 6 months or longer if surgery is needed.
  • Other Carpal Bone Fractures:
    • Healing time varies depending on the specific bone involved and the severity of the fracture. Generally, initial healing can take 6 to 12 weeks, with full recovery often requiring 3 to 6 months.

Individual recovery experiences can vary, so it’s essential to follow a healthcare provider’s guidance for monitoring healing and rehabilitation.

When should I go to a fracture clinic?

Fracture Clinics / Urgent Care Centers, such as Access Ortho, provide emergency care for fractures. Access Ortho is staffed by medical staff who specialise in orthopaedic care. In addition, Access Ortho offers follow-up care with orthopaedic surgeons in the clinic. 

Immediate vs. Delayed Presentation:

  • Immediate Presentation:
    • If you experience severe pain, noticeable deformity, or inability to use your wrist following an injury, seek immediate medical attention. An emergency department or fracture clinic visit is warranted to assess the injury and initiate appropriate treatment.
  • Delayed Presentation:
    • If you initially manage to move your wrist but notice increasing pain, swelling, or difficulty using it in the days following the injury, you should visit a fracture clinic. Additionally, if you suspect a fracture based on your symptoms but do not seek immediate care, it is important to have the wrist evaluated as soon as possible to prevent complications.

Signs That Require Urgent Medical Attention:

  • Severe Pain: If you have intense pain that does not decrease with rest or pain medication.
  • Visible Deformity: Any unusual bending or misalignment of the wrist or hand.
  • Inability to Move: Inability to move the wrist or fingers or significant loss of function.
  • Numbness or Tingling: Signs of nerve involvement, such as persistent numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand or fingers.
  • Severe Swelling or Bruising: Rapid swelling or extensive bruising around the wrist, indicating potential complications.
  • Open Fracture: If the skin is broken and bone is visible, seek immediate medical attention to prevent infection and ensure proper treatment.
  • Signs of Compartment Syndrome: Severe pain disproportionate to the injury, increased swelling, or changes in skin colour (pale or bluish) may indicate compartment syndrome, a surgical emergency.

If you experience any of these signs, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly to ensure appropriate evaluation and treatment. Access Ortho offers rapid appointments for acute injuries such as fractures, sprains and strains. 

What is a fracture clinic?

Purpose and Functions of a Fracture Clinic

A fracture clinic is a specialised medical facility that diagnoses and treats patients with bone fractures and related injuries. Emergency Departments and Urgent Care Clinics are excellent at providing immediate care but offer limited orthopaedic specialist advice. Access Ortho offers immediate care and follow-up care with orthopaedic surgeons. Attending Access Ortho means you will receive expert orthopaedic advice, which is important for musculoskeletal injuries such as fractures. 

The primary purposes and functions include:

  • Assessment and Diagnosis:
    • Providing thorough evaluations of fractures through physical examinations and imaging studies (like X-rays) to determine the type and severity of the injury.
  • Treatment Planning:
    • Developing individualised treatment plans, which may include conservative management (like casting or splinting) or surgical interventions for more complex fractures.
  • Follow-Up Care:
    • Regular follow-up appointments are offered to monitor healing progress, adjust treatment as necessary, and manage complications.
  • Rehabilitation Guidance:
    • Providing resources and recommendations for physiotherapy and rehabilitation to ensure optimal recovery and restore function.
  • Patient Education:
    • Educating patients about their injuries, treatment options, recovery expectations, and preventative measures to avoid future fractures.

What to Expect When You Attend Your Fracture Clinic Appointment

  • Medical History Review:
    • The medical practitioner will ask about the injury, your medical history, any previous fractures, and overall health.
  • Physical Examination:
    • The medical practitioner will assess the affected wrist. They will assess pain, swelling, deformity, and range of motion and check for nerve or vascular involvement.
  • Imaging Studies:
    • If not already performed, X-rays will be taken to visualise the fracture. In some cases, additional imaging (such as CT or MRI) may be requested for a more detailed evaluation.
  • Diagnosis Discussion:
    • The provider will explain the diagnosis, including the type of fracture, its severity, and any implications for treatment.
  • Treatment Recommendations:
    • You will receive a treatment plan, which may include options for immobilisation, pain management, or the need for surgery.
  • Follow-Up Scheduling:
    • Follow-up appointments will be scheduled with an orthopaedic surgeon to monitor healing progress and adjust treatment as necessary.
  • Rehabilitation and Exercises:
    • Information on rehabilitation programs or exercises to promote healing and regain strength and mobility will be provided.
  • Patient Education Materials:
    • You may receive information on caring for your fracture, signs to watch for, and tips for recovery.

Overall, fracture clinics such as Access Ortho are designed to streamline care and ensure patients receive comprehensive, focused treatment for their injuries.

Commonly Asked Questions

Can you move your wrist if it’s fractured?

It depends on the severity of the fracture. In some cases, you may be able to move your wrist, but it will likely cause significant pain. In more severe fractures, movement may be impossible due to pain or instability.

How long does a cast stay on for a broken wrist?

Following a broken wrist, a cast typically stays on for 4 to 6 weeks for most wrist fractures. The exact duration may vary based on the type and severity of the fracture, as well as the patient’s age and overall health.

What is the difference between a broken wrist and a sprained wrist?

A broken wrist (fracture) involves a break in one or more of the wrist bones, whereas a sprained wrist involves stretching or tearing of the ligaments that connect the bones in the wrist without any break in the bone. Sprains can cause swelling and pain, but X-rays are needed to confirm a fracture.

What is the difference between a fractured wrist and a broken wrist?

The terms fracture, break, and broken bone are often used interchangeably in everyday language, but they essentially refer to the same condition. Break and broken bone are layperson’s terms that refer to any fracture. They imply that the bone has been disrupted in some way. 

In medical contexts, “fracture” is the preferred term, while “break” and “broken bone” are more casual expressions that convey the same idea. Regardless of the terminology, the implications of fractured or broken bone are similar, requiring appropriate medical evaluation and treatment to ensure proper healing.

Can a fractured wrist heal without a cast?

In some cases, a fractured wrist may heal without a cast, particularly for stable, non-displaced fractures, although this would be rare. However, most fractures require immobilisation with a cast or splint to ensure proper healing and alignment. It is important to seek orthopaedic advice if you have concerns about your wrist injury. 

How painful is a broken wrist?

A broken wrist can be quite painful, especially immediately after the injury. Pain levels vary depending on the fracture’s type and severity, but it generally includes sharp, throbbing pain that may worsen with movement or pressure.

What activities should I avoid with a fractured wrist?

It is important to avoid activities that put stress on the wrist, such as:

  • Lifting heavy objects
  • Sports or physical activities that involve gripping or twisting
  • Any movement that causes pain in the wrist
When can I return to work after a wrist fracture?

The timeline for returning to work depends on the severity of the fracture, your job requirements, and how well you heal. Generally, you may return to light duties within 2 to 6 weeks, but full return may take 3 to 6 months, especially if your job involves heavy lifting or manual work. It is important to discuss this with your medical team.

How do I care for my cast or splint?

Your cast or splint care will depend on what type you have been fitted with. Your medical team will discuss the management of your cast or splint. In general:

  • Keep the cast or splint dry and clean; use a plastic bag or cover when bathing.
  • Avoid inserting objects into the cast to scratch an itch.
  • Monitor for signs of discomfort, swelling, or changes in skin colour around the edges of the cast.
  • Report any foul odours, increased pain, or unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider.
What are the signs of improper healing in a wrist fracture?

Attending follow-up visits is important to ensure the doctors can assess your fracture healing and monitor potential complications. 

  • Signs that may indicate improper healing include:
  • Increased pain or swelling after the initial healing period.
  • Visible deformity or misalignment of the wrist.
  • Limited range of motion or weakness that does not improve.
  • Numbness or tingling in the fingers or hand.
  • Persistent bruising or discolouration beyond the expected healing timeline.

If you experience any of these signs, it is essential to contact your healthcare provider for evaluation.