Two x ray images showing a Colles fracture a fracture of the lower end of the radius in which the lower fragment is displaced posteriorly Colles fractures are very common injury among adults When someone begins to fall they almost always extend their hand to reduce the force of hitting the ground When they fall on the outstretched hand the sudden impact of their body weight on the hand may cause the end of the lower arm bone called the radius to fracture just above the wrist Many patients heal from a Colles fracture without any complications but some people may not regain full mobility of their wrist joints
