Fragile wrist being supported

Wrist Pain After a Break? What You Need to Know About Perilunate Dislocations

Jordan Keane in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 4 min read.

"Years after a wrist injury, pain, limited movement, and dissatisfaction can persist. Understanding the long-term effects of perilunate dislocations is key to recovery."

Wrist injuries can be more than just a temporary setback. A perilunate dislocation, a rare but severe wrist injury, can lead to long-term complications that affect your ability to perform everyday tasks. If you've experienced this type of injury, you might be facing persistent pain, limited wrist movement, and a sense of dissatisfaction with your overall wrist health.

Research into the long-term effects of perilunate dislocations reveals that these injuries can have a significant impact on your quality of life, even years after the initial trauma. Understanding these potential issues is the first step toward effective management and improved well-being.

This article breaks down the key findings of a recent study on perilunate dislocations, offering insights into pain management, rehabilitation strategies, and surgical options that can help you regain function and find relief. Whether you're newly injured or have been living with the aftereffects for years, this information can empower you to take control of your wrist health.

Understanding the Long-Term Impact: What the Research Shows

A study published in 'Disability and Rehabilitation' investigated the long-term impact of perilunate dislocations and fracture-dislocations (PLD/PLFDs). Researchers followed patients for an average of eight years after their injury, comparing their outcomes to a control group without wrist injuries. The results highlight several key areas where individuals with PLD/PLFDs experience lasting challenges:

The study revealed specific limitations in wrist function, pain levels, and overall satisfaction. Key findings included:

Limited Range of Motion: Significant reductions in wrist flexion/extension and ulnar/radial deviation were observed, hindering the ability to perform tasks requiring wrist flexibility.
Persistent Pain: Patients reported higher levels of pain compared to the control group, impacting daily activities and overall comfort.
Reduced Satisfaction: A noticeable decrease in satisfaction with wrist function was reported, affecting overall quality of life.
Impact on Daily Activities: Difficulties with hand function, daily routines, and overall physical health were more pronounced in the PLD/PLFD group.

It's important to note that while grip strength was not significantly diminished in all patients, some individuals did experience a reduction. The study also highlights the potential for diminished general health status, indicating a broader impact beyond just the wrist itself. These findings underscore the importance of comprehensive care and long-term management strategies for individuals who have sustained a perilunate dislocation.

Taking Control: Management and Treatment Options

While the long-term effects of perilunate dislocations can be challenging, there are various strategies to help manage pain, improve function, and enhance your overall quality of life. A comprehensive approach often involves a combination of:

It's crucial to work closely with your healthcare team to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and goals. Don't hesitate to explore all available options and actively participate in decisions regarding your care.

Living with the aftereffects of a perilunate dislocation requires patience, persistence, and a proactive approach to your health. By understanding the potential long-term impacts and embracing available management strategies, you can empower yourself to regain function, find relief, and live a fulfilling life.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.1080/09638288.2018.1512165, Alternate LINK

Title: Pain, Impaired Functioning, Poor Satisfaction And Diminished Health Status Eight Years Following Perilunate (Fracture) Dislocations

Subject: Rehabilitation

Journal: Disability and Rehabilitation

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Authors: Charlotte M. Lameijer, Caren K. Niezen, Mostafa El Moumni, Corry K. Van Der Sluis

Published: 2018-11-19

Everything You Need To Know

What are some of the long-term effects someone might experience after a perilunate dislocation?

After a perilunate dislocation, research indicates individuals may experience lasting issues such as reduced range of motion in wrist flexion/extension and ulnar/radial deviation, impacting tasks needing wrist flexibility. Higher levels of pain are also common, affecting daily activities and overall comfort. There can also be a noticeable decrease in satisfaction with wrist function, affecting overall quality of life. The study also highlighted difficulties with hand function, daily routines, and overall physical health.

What does research reveal about the long-term impact of perilunate dislocations on wrist health and overall well-being?

A study in 'Disability and Rehabilitation' followed patients for eight years post-injury, comparing them to a control group. The study revealed limitations in wrist function, pain levels, and overall satisfaction. While grip strength wasn't always diminished, some individuals experienced a reduction, and there was a potential for diminished general health status, indicating a broader impact beyond just the wrist itself.

What are the management and treatment options available to improve quality of life after a perilunate dislocation?

While the long-term effects of a perilunate dislocation can be challenging, various strategies can help manage pain, improve function, and enhance overall quality of life. A comprehensive approach often involves a combination of pain management techniques, rehabilitation strategies, and, in some cases, surgical interventions to restore wrist alignment and function. These treatments aim to address the specific limitations and discomfort experienced after a perilunate dislocation.

Does the information about perilunate dislocations apply to other types of wrist injuries?

The study mentioned focuses on perilunate dislocations and perilunate fracture-dislocations (PLD/PLFDs). Other wrist injuries, such as scaphoid fractures or distal radius fractures, weren't specifically addressed in this study. These different injuries may have different long-term effects and require different management strategies. Further research would be needed to understand the long-term impacts of other types of wrist injuries comprehensively.

How does a perilunate dislocation affect a person's overall well-being beyond just physical limitations?

The long-term effects of a perilunate dislocation extend beyond just physical limitations. The study highlights that individuals may experience a diminished general health status and difficulties with daily routines. This can lead to reduced participation in activities and social interactions, potentially impacting mental well-being. Comprehensive management of a perilunate dislocation should address both the physical and psychological aspects to improve the overall quality of life.