A Colles fracture at the distal radius may limit which of the following motions most notably?

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Multiple Choice

A Colles fracture at the distal radius may limit which of the following motions most notably?

Explanation:
A Colles fracture disrupts the distal radius and radiocarpal joint alignment, so the wrist joint is the primary structure affected and often immobilized in a cast. This leads to stiffness that most noticeably limits wrist motion in the sagittal plane—both extension (bending the wrist backward) and flexion (bending it forward). The other joints mentioned—the base of the thumb (CMC), the finger joints (MCP), and forearm rotation (supination/pronation)—are less directly impacted by a distal radius fracture, especially early on. Therefore, the wrist’s ability to move through flexion and extension is the most evident limitation after this injury.

A Colles fracture disrupts the distal radius and radiocarpal joint alignment, so the wrist joint is the primary structure affected and often immobilized in a cast. This leads to stiffness that most noticeably limits wrist motion in the sagittal plane—both extension (bending the wrist backward) and flexion (bending it forward). The other joints mentioned—the base of the thumb (CMC), the finger joints (MCP), and forearm rotation (supination/pronation)—are less directly impacted by a distal radius fracture, especially early on. Therefore, the wrist’s ability to move through flexion and extension is the most evident limitation after this injury.

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