This study found that the usual course of recovery after a distal radius fracture is for severe symptoms to diminish within the first two months and for the majority of patients to have little pain and impairment by six months. However, 10-20% of patients will continue to experience some degree of discomfort and disability at three years. These findings were published in the journal Spine and are consistent with previous studies that showed 80% of patients could return to their pre-injury activity level at one year and 90% by three years. After performing distal radius surgery, patients should expect mild pain and stiffness during exercise and weight-bearing activities for up to 24 months after the operation. However, most patients will experience full recovery of function by then. Patients who suffer from chronic pain or disability after this time may need additional treatment.