Greenstick Confirmed

A couple of weeks back, I fell on the ice and hurt my wrist. The doc told me to monitor it for 48 hours and if it improved, it was probably a bad sprain, if it didn't improve, we'd x-ray to determine the proper course of care.

Well, 48 hours past and it did start to feel better... not entirely healed, but better. The swelling reduced, and the ice no longer eased the pain and throbbing. I braced it as if it was broken and went along with life. 10 days after the fall, I had a regularly scheduled doctors appointment and my PCP was alarmed that I continued to have problems. He stated that an x-ray is necessary and that his concern is that I have a greenstick fracture.

Did the x-ray, got the results.... the report stated that there are no signs of a break to the distal ulnar, greenstick or otherwise, and that the injury is a sprain of the wrist. I agree, there is no sign of break to the ulnar - since the area in question is to the distal radius. Generally, I would agree with the professionals assessment, but my discomfort and delayed improvement in my wrist have influenced me to get a second opinion. In reviewing my x-rays with Dean, both of us were able to recognize the break immediately, confirming there is a greenstick fracture on the distal radius. There is a clear disruption of the cortex as seen by the yellow arrow.

I'm not saying that the healthcare system is flawed, however, my insurance (thank god I have it) - will likely pay $600 to the "specialist" who read my x-rays, not to mention the cost of the films, the technician who performed the tests, etc. If an untrained eye, like mine, can locate a minor fracture, and confirm it by a specialist, such as a Chiropractor, there is something wrong with the system.

At this point, I will continue to self-treat, using my brace only when I've overdone it. Working for a Chiropractor for 12 years has helped me to understand the mechanics of a body, pain management and overall wellness. I'll heal up in no time and be just fine.