The evaluation of a wrist fracture begins with a history and physical exam.

Physical findings in someone with a wrist fracture may include:

• Limited range of motion of the wrist joint
• Wrist swelling
• Wrist tenderness
• Deformed wrist
• Hand numbness (unilateral)
• Hand weakness (unilateral)

Tests are necessary to make the diagnosis of a wrist fracture.

Tests that may be used to evaluate a wrist fracture include:

• X-rays of the wrist:
• Normal
• Wrist fracture
• Bone scan
• MRI of wrist