What characteristic might indicate a Colles fracture?

A Colles fracture is a specific type of wrist fracture that typically occurs when a person falls onto an outstretched hand, leading to a fracture of the distal radius in the wrist. One of the hallmark characteristics of this fracture is the resulting deformity at the wrist.

The deformity resembling a dinner fork, often described as "dinner fork" or "bowl of soup" appearance, is due to the dorsal angulation and often dorsal displacement of the distal fragment of the radius. This means that when viewing the wrist from the side, the wrist has a distinctive curve that resembles the shape of a fork. Recognizing this specific deformity aids in diagnosing a Colles fracture, allowing for appropriate treatment to be administered promptly.

Other symptoms, such as swelling or bruising around the elbow or shoulder, do not specifically indicate a Colles fracture as these could be attributed to various other injuries or conditions. Loss of range of motion in the hand can also occur in several types of injuries and is not exclusive to Colles fractures. Hence, the characteristic deformity of the wrist is the most indicative sign of this type of fracture.