Sometimes when a person falls, they hit the ground with their hands to catch and protect themselves. If enough force and power is transmitted through the bones of the hands and wrists, the ends of the bones of the forearm can sustain a break or a fracture. This break may be severe enough to require surgery. Other times, it may be treated with a cast for up to 4 to 6 weeks. Damage to the surrounding muscle, wrist bones, tendons and nerves of the hand can occur with these fractures and make recovery more difficult and challenging. Your hand surgeon will talk with you more about what treatment options are best for you.