Depending on the severity of the impact, there may be one or many fragments and it may or may not involve the articular surface of the wrist joint.

There are also higher risks of carpal tunnel syndrome and osteoarthritis in patients with a previous Smith fractures.

[citation needed] Entrapment of the extensor pollicis longus can also occur in cases of non-union, and can result in late rupture of this tendon.

[5] Classic physical examination findings of a Smith's fracture is palmar displacement of the wrist that results in a "garden-spade deformity".

A fracture with mild angulation and displacement may require closed reduction (putting into place without surgery).