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A Colles' fracture is a fracture of the radius and the ulna. The break usually occurs near the wrist and is typically caused by falling on an outstretched arm with the palm facing down. The fracture has been noted to look like a dinner-fork handle, as the forearm has a noticeable upward curve or dog-leg shape.

The first treatment is for the fracture to be reduced or realigned. The wrist is then placed in a cast. The cast may immobilize the elbow as well as the wrist since many of the muscles for the wrist also attach near the elbow. With both the elbow and wrist immobilized, the chance of the broken bones moving is much less.

After the cast is removed, rehabilitation starts with regaining range of motion. This is done with specific therapeutic exercises and often manual therapy or stretching with your rehabilitation specialist. As you regain your range, the exercises have more emphasis on strength and endurance. Remember, the exercises will be for the elbow and hand as well as the wrist since these areas will have weakened during the wearing of the cast.