What is a Colles’ fracture and how does it occur according to the chapter?

A Colles’ fracture, also known as a fractured wrist, occurs at the lower end of the radius when a person tries to stop a fall by landing on their hands. This type of fracture is commonly associated with the impact of a fall, particularly in individuals with weakened bones due to osteoporosis.

The Colles’ fracture is specifically characterized by its occurrence at the distal end of the radius bone in the forearm. It typically happens when a person falls and instinctively attempts to break the fall with their hands, leading to the fracture of the wrist. This injury is particularly prevalent among older adults whose bones may be weakened by osteoporosis, making them more susceptible to fractures from falls.