Złamanie ręki lub nadgarstka
Leczenie

Złamania ręki i nadgarstka wymagają precyzyjnej diagnostyki obejmującej badanie fizykalne oraz obrazowe, głównie RTG, a w wybranych przypadkach MRI. Leczenie zależy od typu złamania, lokalizacji, stopnia przemieszczenia oraz indywidualnych cech pacjenta. W przypadku przemieszczeń stosuje się repozycję zamkniętą lub otwartą, a następnie unieruchomienie za pomocą gipsu (6-8 tygodni), szyny, temblaka lub ortezy. Wskazania do leczenia operacyjnego obejmują złamania otwarte, wieloodłamowe, przezstawowe, niestabilne oraz z uszkodzeniem tkanek miękkich. Metody chirurgiczne to ORIF, fiksacja zewnętrzna oraz przezskórna stabilizacja drutami Kirschnera. Leczenie farmakologiczne obejmuje NLPZ, paracetamol oraz krótkotrwałe stosowanie opioidów, a metody fizykalne, takie jak krioterapia i elewacja kończyny, wspomagają redukcję bólu i obrzęku.

Złamanie ręki lub nadgarstka – Leczenie i terapia

Złamanie ręki lub nadgarstka to często spotykana kontuzja, która wymaga odpowiedniego postępowania medycznego w celu prawidłowego wygojenia i przywrócenia pełnej funkcjonalności kończyny. Leczenie zależy od rodzaju złamania, jego lokalizacji, stopnia przemieszczenia fragmentów kostnych oraz indywidualnych cech pacjenta, takich jak wiek, ogólny stan zdrowia czy poziom aktywności fizycznej.12

Diagnostyka przed leczeniem

Prawidłowa diagnoza jest kluczowa dla określenia odpowiedniego leczenia. Lekarz przeprowadza badanie fizykalne, oceniając bolesność, obrzęk, deformację lub obecność rany otwartej. Po omówieniu objawów i mechanizmu urazu, zazwyczaj zlecane są zdjęcia rentgenowskie w celu określenia lokalizacji i zakresu złamania. W niektórych przypadkach mogą być konieczne dodatkowe badania obrazowe, takie jak rezonans magnetyczny (MRI), aby uzyskać bardziej szczegółowe obrazy.12

Metody nastawiania złamania

Jeśli doszło do przemieszczenia fragmentów kostnych, lekarz musi przywrócić je do właściwej pozycji (repozycja). W zależności od nasilenia bólu i obrzęku, pacjent może potrzebować środka zwiotczającego mięśnie, leku uspokajającego lub nawet znieczulenia ogólnego przed tą procedurą.1

Wyróżniamy dwa główne rodzaje repozycji złamania:

  • Repozycja zamknięta – niechirurgiczna procedura, podczas której lekarz nastawia kość bez konieczności otwierania skóry. Jest to często wykonywane w przypadku prostszych złamań.12
  • Repozycja otwarta – procedura chirurgiczna stosowana, gdy nie można skorygować pozycji złamanej kości za pomocą repozycji zamkniętej.1

Metody unieruchamiania złamania

Ograniczenie ruchu złamanej kości, które wymaga unieruchomienia za pomocą szyny, temblaka, ortezy lub gipsu, ma kluczowe znaczenie dla gojenia. Przed założeniem gipsu lekarz zazwyczaj czeka na zmniejszenie obrzęku, zwykle pięć do siedmiu dni po urazie. W międzyczasie pacjent najczęściej nosi szynę.12

Metody unieruchamiania obejmują:

  • Szyna – często stosowana jako tymczasowe rozwiązanie przed założeniem gipsu, zwłaszcza gdy występuje znaczny obrzęk1
  • Gips – najczęstszy sposób unieruchomienia złamania; wykonany z gipsu lub włókna szklanego, stosowany przez okres około 6-8 tygodni12
  • Temblak – używany do podtrzymania ręki, często stosowany jako dodatkowe wsparcie wraz z gipsem lub szyną1
  • Orteza funkcjonalna lub stabilizator – umożliwia kontrolowany ruch stawów w pobliżu złamania, choć nie jest odpowiednia dla wszystkich typów złamań1

Leczenie chirurgiczne

W przypadku niektórych złamań konieczna jest stabilizacja chirurgiczna. Jeśli złamanie nie przebiło skóry, lekarz może odczekać z operacją do momentu ustąpienia obrzęku. Unieruchomienie ręki i jej uniesienie zmniejszy obrzęk.12

Wskazania do leczenia operacyjnego obejmują:

  • Złamania otwarte (gdy kość przebiła skórę)
  • Złamania wieloodłamowe
  • Złamania przezstawowe (przechodzące przez staw)
  • Złamania niestabilne lub znacznie przemieszczone
  • Złamania z uszkodzeniem okolicznych więzadeł, nerwów lub naczyń krwionośnych12

Metody chirurgicznego leczenia złamań:

  • Otwarta repozycja i wewnętrzna fiksacja (ORIF) – najczęstszy typ chirurgicznej naprawy złamań ręki i nadgarstka. Podczas tej procedury chirurg wykonuje nacięcie nad złamaniem, repozycjonuje fragmenty kostne, a następnie stabilizuje je za pomocą specjalnych śrub, płytek metalowych, drutów lub innych urządzeń przymocowanych do zewnętrznej powierzchni kości.12
  • Fiksacja zewnętrzna – w niektórych przypadkach stosowany jest zewnętrzny stabilizator składający się z metalowej ramy z dwoma lub więcej pinami, które przechodzą przez skórę i wchodzą w kość po obu stronach złamania. To urządzenie stabilizuje kości we właściwej pozycji, aby mogły się zagoić.12
  • Przezskórna stabilizacja drutami Kirschnera – mniej inwazyjna metoda, w której druty wprowadzane są przez skórę w celu stabilizacji fragmentów kostnych.1

Leczenie przeciwbólowe

Aby zmniejszyć ból i stan zapalny, lekarz może zalecić lek przeciwbólowy dostępny bez recepty. Jeśli ból jest silny, pacjent może potrzebować leku na receptę zawierającego narkotyk przez kilka dni.1

Najczęściej stosowane leki w leczeniu bólu przy złamaniach:

  • Niesteroidowe leki przeciwzapalne (NLPZ) – takie jak ibuprofen czy naproksen, pomagają w kontrolowaniu bólu, ale mogą hamować gojenie się kości, szczególnie przy długotrwałym stosowaniu12
  • Paracetamol – alternatywa dla NLPZ, bezpieczniejsza w kontekście gojenia kości1
  • Opioidowe leki przeciwbólowe – takie jak kodeina, stosowane w przypadku silnego bólu, zazwyczaj przez krótki czas1

Fizykoterapia i zimnolecznictwo

W leczeniu złamań ręki i nadgarstka często stosuje się również metody fizykalne:

  • Krioterapia (leczenie zimnem) – stosowanie lodu zmniejsza obrzęk i ból. Należy przykładać lód na 10-20 minut co 1-2 godziny przez pierwsze kilka dni po urazie.12
  • Elewacja kończyny – uniesienie ręki powyżej poziomu serca pomaga zmniejszyć obrzęk. Zaleca się podpieranie ręki na poduszkach podczas siedzenia lub leżenia.12
  • Stymulacja elektryczna – fizjoterapeuta może wykorzystać delikatną stymulację elektryczną, aby pomóc kontrolować ból lub obrzęk w nadgarstku, dłoni lub ramieniu.12

Rehabilitacja po złamaniu ręki lub nadgarstka

Rehabilitacja rozpoczyna się wkrótce po rozpoczęciu leczenia. W większości przypadków ważne jest, aby jak najwcześniej rozpocząć pewien zakres ruchu w celu zminimalizowania sztywności w ręce, dłoni i barku podczas noszenia gipsu lub temblaka.12

Etapy rehabilitacji

Rehabilitacja po złamaniu ręki lub nadgarstka zazwyczaj przebiega w kilku etapach:

  • Etap wczesny (podczas unieruchomienia) – ćwiczenia palców, łokcia i barku w celu zapobiegania sztywności tych stawów oraz utrzymania krążenia12
  • Etap pośredni (po zdjęciu gipsu/unieruchomienia) – przywracanie zakresu ruchu i elastyczności nadgarstka i ręki12
  • Etap późny (przywracanie funkcji) – zwiększanie siły mięśniowej i wytrzymałości, przywracanie pełnej funkcjonalności kończyny12

Fizjoterapia

Po zdjęciu gipsu lub temblaka lekarz może zalecić dodatkowe ćwiczenia rehabilitacyjne lub fizjoterapię w celu przywrócenia siły mięśniowej, ruchu w stawie i elastyczności.1 Fizjoterapeuta pomaga pacjentom odzyskać normalny ruch w nadgarstku, siłę i funkcję, a także udziela wskazówek i szkoleń pomagających zapobiegać przyszłym złamaniom.1

Elementy fizjoterapii w leczeniu złamań ręki i nadgarstka:

  • Terapia manualna – fizjoterapeuta może używać specjalistycznych technik manualnych, aby umożliwić stawom i mięśniom swobodniejsze poruszanie się przy mniejszym bólu1
  • Ćwiczenia zwiększające zakres ruchu – mające na celu stopniowe przywracanie pełnego zakresu ruchu w stawie12
  • Ćwiczenia wzmacniające – ukierunkowane na odbudowę siły mięśniowej osłabionej podczas unieruchomienia12
  • Ćwiczenia funkcjonalne – przygotowujące do powrotu do codziennych aktywności i pracy12
  • Edukacja pacjenta – instrukcje dotyczące ćwiczeń domowych i technik ochrony stawów12

Przykładowe ćwiczenia rehabilitacyjne

W trakcie rehabilitacji po złamaniu ręki lub nadgarstka pacjenci wykonują różnorodne ćwiczenia, które pomagają odzyskać sprawność i funkcjonalność kończyny:12

  • Zginanie i prostowanie palców – pomaga utrzymać elastyczność stawów śródręczno-paliczkowych
  • Rotacja przedramienia – ćwiczenia supinacji i pronacji (obracanie dłoni w górę i w dół)
  • Zginanie i prostowanie nadgarstka – przywraca zakres ruchu w stawie promieniowo-nadgarstkowym
  • Odwodzenie i przywodzenie nadgarstka – ruchy na boki pomagające odzyskać pełną ruchomość
  • Ćwiczenia wzmacniające wykorzystujące taśmy elastyczne lub małe ciężarki – stopniowo zwiększają siłę mięśniową
  • Ćwiczenia chwytne – z wykorzystaniem piłeczek rehabilitacyjnych lub innych pomocy

Czas trwania rehabilitacji

Rehabilitacja po złamaniu ręki lub nadgarstka może trwać od kilku tygodni do kilku miesięcy, w zależności od ciężkości złamania i indywidualnych czynników pacjenta:12

  • Standardowe złamania nadgarstka – około 6-8 tygodni w gipsie, następnie kilka tygodni rehabilitacji
  • Złamania wymagające leczenia operacyjnego – 3-4 miesiące lub dłużej
  • Pełny powrót siły może zająć nawet do 2 lat w przypadku złożonych złamań

Szczególne przypadki złamania ręki i nadgarstka

Złamania nasady dalszej kości promieniowej

Złamania nasady dalszej kości promieniowej (distal radius fractures) są jednym z najczęstszych typów złamań nadgarstka. Występują zazwyczaj w wyniku upadku na wyciągniętą rękę.12

Specyfika leczenia złamań nasady dalszej kości promieniowej:12

  • Złamania stabilne bez przemieszczenia – leczenie zachowawcze z unieruchomieniem gipsowym przez około 6 tygodni
  • Złamania niestabilne lub przemieszczone – wymagają repozycji zamkniętej lub otwartej z wewnętrzną stabilizacją
  • Złamania śródstawowe – często wymagają leczenia operacyjnego dla przywrócenia kongruencji stawowej

Złamania przedramienia

Złamania przedramienia obejmują złamania kości promieniowej (radius) i/lub łokciowej (ulna). U dorosłych w większości przypadków złamane są obie kości.1

Specyfika leczenia złamań przedramienia:123

  • Złamania pojedynczej kości bez przemieszczenia – możliwe leczenie zachowawcze z unieruchomieniem gipsowym lub ortezą
  • Złamania obu kości przedramienia – zwykle wymagają leczenia operacyjnego
  • Techniki operacyjne – najczęściej otwarta repozycja i wewnętrzna fiksacja z użyciem płytek i śrub

Złamania u dzieci

Złamania ręki i nadgarstka u dzieci różnią się od złamań u dorosłych ze względu na obecność chrząstek wzrostowych i większą elastyczność kości.12

Specyfika leczenia złamań u dzieci:123

  • Szybsze gojenie – kości dzieci goją się znacznie szybciej niż u dorosłych
  • Możliwość samokorekty – niektóre nieznaczne przemieszczenia mogą ulec samokorekcie w trakcie dalszego wzrostu
  • Metody leczenia – przeważnie leczenie zachowawcze z unieruchomieniem gipsowym; operacje rzadziej niż u dorosłych
  • Ryzyko zaburzeń wzrostu – złamania przechodzące przez chrząstkę wzrostową mogą wpływać na dalszy wzrost kości

Powikłania i ich leczenie

Mimo właściwego leczenia, złamania ręki i nadgarstka mogą prowadzić do powikłań, które wymagają dodatkowej interwencji:123

Najczęstsze powikłania

  • Zespół ciasnoty przedziałów powięziowych – powikłanie po złamaniu, w którym nadmierne krwawienie lub obrzęk odcinają dopływ krwi do ramienia, prowadząc do obumarcia tkanki
  • Infekcje – szczególnie w przypadku złamań otwartych lub po operacjach
  • Zrost opóźniony lub brak zrostu – nieprawidłowe lub opóźnione gojenie się kości
  • Zrost w nieprawidłowej pozycji – może prowadzić do deformacji i ograniczenia funkcji
  • Sztywność stawowa – ograniczenie ruchomości w stawach ręki, nadgarstka lub łokcia
  • Uszkodzenie nerwów lub naczyń krwionośnych – może powodować zaburzenia czucia, osłabienie mięśni lub problemy z krążeniem
  • Pourazowa choroba zwyrodnieniowa stawów – szczególnie w przypadku złamań śródstawowych

Leczenie powikłań

W przypadku wystąpienia powikłań mogą być konieczne dodatkowe interwencje:123

  • Rewizja chirurgiczna – w przypadku infekcji, braku zrostu lub zrostu w nieprawidłowej pozycji
  • Osteotomia korekcyjna – przecięcie kości i jej ponowne ustawienie w przypadku zrostu w nieprawidłowej pozycji
  • Przeszczepy kostne – wspomogające gojenie w przypadku braku zrostu
  • Intensywna fizjoterapia – w przypadku sztywności stawowej lub zaników mięśniowych
  • Leczenie przeciwbólowe i przeciwzapalne – w przypadku przewlekłego bólu lub zapalenia

Zalecenia dla pacjentów po złamaniu ręki lub nadgarstka

Opieka domowa

Prawidłowa opieka domowa ma kluczowe znaczenie dla procesu gojenia po złamaniu ręki lub nadgarstka:1234

  • Stosowanie lodu – przykładanie lodu na 10-20 minut co 1-2 godziny przez pierwsze dni po urazie
  • Elewacja kończyny – unoszenie ręki powyżej poziomu serca, szczególnie w pierwszych dniach po urazie
  • Pielęgnacja gipsu/szyny – utrzymywanie gipsu w suchości i czystości
  • Regularne ćwiczenia – wykonywanie zaleconych przez lekarza lub fizjoterapeutę ćwiczeń
  • Przyjmowanie leków – zgodnie z zaleceniami lekarza
  • Poruszanie palcami – częste poruszanie palcami w celu zmniejszenia obrzęku i sztywności

Kiedy zgłosić się po pomoc

Należy natychmiast skontaktować się z lekarzem lub pielęgniarką w przypadku pojawienia się następujących objawów:123

  • Nasilenie bólu mimo stosowania leków przeciwbólowych
  • Zmiana koloru palców (bladość lub sinienie)
  • Uczucie, że gips lub szyna są zbyt ciasne
  • Mrowienie, osłabienie lub drętwienie dłoni lub palców
  • Niemożność poruszania palcami
  • Gorączka (może wskazywać na infekcję)
  • Nieprzyjemny zapach wydobywający się z gipsu
  • Wyciek z rany po operacji

Styl życia i dieta

Odpowiedni styl życia i dieta mogą wspomóc proces gojenia po złamaniu:123

  • Palenie – zaprzestanie palenia, które może opóźnić lub uniemożliwić gojenie się kości
  • Alkohol – ograniczenie spożycia alkoholu, który negatywnie wpływa na proces gojenia
  • Dieta – spożywanie odpowiedniej ilości białka, wapnia i witaminy D
  • Nawodnienie – picie wystarczającej ilości wody
  • Suplementacja – po konsultacji z lekarzem, suplementacja witaminy D i wapnia może być zalecana

Powrót do aktywności

Powrót do codziennych aktywności i sportu powinien być stopniowy i zgodny z zaleceniami lekarza:123

  • Praca – powrót do pracy zależy od rodzaju wykonywanej pracy i typu złamania
  • Prowadzenie samochodu – zazwyczaj możliwe po zdjęciu gipsu i odzyskaniu wystarczającej siły i zakresu ruchu
  • Lekka aktywność fizyczna – pływanie lub ćwiczenia dolnej części ciała można zazwyczaj rozpocząć 1-2 miesiące po zdjęciu gipsu
  • Sport kontaktowy – powrót do sportów kontaktowych zazwyczaj możliwy po 3-6 miesiącach, w zależności od rodzaju złamania
  • Podnoszenie ciężarów – stopniowy powrót pod nadzorem fizjoterapeuty

Czas gojenia złamania ręki lub nadgarstka zależy od wielu czynników, takich jak wiek pacjenta, ogólny stan zdrowia, rodzaj złamania czy zastosowane leczenie. Prawidłowe leczenie i rehabilitacja są kluczowe dla odzyskania pełnej funkcjonalności kończyny i zapobiegania powikłaniom długoterminowym.12

Kolejne rozdziały

Zapraszamy do dalszego czytania naszego leksykonu.

Wybierz kolejny rozdział z menu poniżej, aby otworzyć nową podstronę kompedium wiedzy i uzyskać szczegółowe informację o leku, substancji lub chorobie.

  1. 12.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Broken arm – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/broken-arm/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353266
    Your doctor will examine your arm for tenderness, swelling, deformity or an open wound. After discussing your symptoms and how you injured yourself, your doctor likely will order X-rays to determine the location and extent of the break. Occasionally, another scan, such as an MRI, might be used to get more-detailed images. […] Treatment of a broken arm depends on the type of break. The time needed for healing depends on a variety of factors, including severity of the injury; other conditions, such as diabetes; your age; nutrition; and tobacco and alcohol use. […] If you have a displaced fracture, your doctor might need to move the pieces back into position (reduction). Depending on the amount of pain and swelling you have, you might need a muscle relaxant, a sedative or even a general anesthetic before this procedure.
  • #1 Broken Wrist (Wrist Fracture): Symptoms & Recovery Time
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/broken-wrist-wrist-fracture
    If the bone is out of place, your provider may need to realign the bone fragments first. This procedure is called reduction. […] A closed reduction is a nonsurgical procedure. It means your provider can straighten your bone without having to open your skin. […] Your provider may closely monitor your healing by taking weekly X-rays for at least three weeks. Then, youll have another X-ray at six weeks. At this point, your provider may remove the cast and have you start physical therapy to help improve your wrist function and motion. […] An open reduction is a surgical procedure. It means your provider cant correct the position of the broken bone through a closed reduction. […] Recovery time for a broken wrist depends on several factors, including the severity of your fracture and the method of treatment.
  • #1 Broken arm – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/broken-arm/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353266
    Restricting movement of a broken bone, which requires a splint, sling, brace or cast, is critical to healing. Before applying a cast, your doctor will likely wait until the swelling goes down, usually five to seven days after injury. In the meantime, you’ll likely wear a splint. […] To reduce pain and inflammation, your doctor might recommend an over-the-counter pain reliever. If your pain is severe, you may need a prescription medication that contains a narcotic for a few days. […] Rehabilitation begins soon after initial treatment. In most cases, it’s important, if possible, to begin some motion to minimize stiffness in your arm, hand and shoulder while you’re wearing your cast or sling. […] After your cast or sling is removed, your doctor might recommend additional rehabilitation exercises or physical therapy to restore muscle strength, joint motion and flexibility.
  • #1 Broken arm or wrist
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/broken-arm-or-wrist/
    Get medical advice as soon as possible if you think you have broken your arm or wrist. Any possible breaks need to be treated as soon as possible. […] When you get to hospital the affected arm will be placed in a splint to support it and stop any broken bones from moving out of position. You will also be given painkilling medicines for the pain. An X-ray is then used to see if there is a break and how bad that break is. A plaster cast can be used to keep your arm in place until it heals. Sometimes this may be done a few days later to allow any swelling to go down first. You may be given a sling to support your arm. A doctor may try to fit the broken bones back into place with their hands before applying a splint or cast. You’ll be given medicine before this happens so you will not feel any pain. If you had a very bad break, surgery may be carried out to fix broken bones back into place.
  • #1 Broken arm or wrist
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/broken-arm-or-wrist/
    It usually takes around 6 to 8 weeks to recover from a broken arm or wrist. It can take longer if your arm or wrist was severely damaged. You’ll need to wear your plaster cast until the broken bone heals. The skin under the cast may be itchy for a few days but this should pass. The hospital will give you an advice sheet on exercises you should do every day to help speed up your recovery. Your arm or wrist may be stiff and weak after the cast is removed. A physiotherapist can help with these problems, although sometimes they can last several months or more.
  • #1 Broken arm: Symptoms, causes, pictures and treatment
    https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/broken-arm
    A broken arm occurs due to a break or crack in one or more bones. Possible areas in the arm that are susceptible to breakages are: the forearm bones radius and ulna, wrist, elbow, humerus, shoulder. Arm fracture is another term to describe a broken arm. A simple arm fracture may require a splint or a cast. However, more complex fractures may need surgery. If treated properly, a broken arm can heal completely. […] The most common treatments include: Cast immobilization: Fiberglass or plaster cast is the most common type of broken arm treatment. Most broken arms can heal successfully after a doctor applies a cast to keep the bones involved in the proper position while they heal. Functional cast or brace: This allows a controlled movement of the joints near the fracture. This type of treatment may not be compatible with all fractures. Traction: This helps to align one or more bones with a gentle action. This is generally not a definitive treatment. External fixation: The doctor will place metal screws and pins into the broken and below the fracture site. A metal bar outside the skin will connect screws and pins to hold the bones together while they heal. The doctor may opt for this procedure if the injured person cannot tolerate surgery as their skin and the soft tissues around the broken bone have severe damage. Open reduction and internal fixation: The doctor will reposition the bone fragments into their natural location and alignment. They will then apply special screws, metal plates, and rods through the injured bone to hold its fragments in place.
  • #1 Broken arm – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/broken-arm/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353266
    Surgery is required to stabilize some fractures. If the fracture didn’t break the skin, your doctor might wait to do surgery until the swelling has gone down. Keeping your arm from moving and elevating it will decrease swelling. […] Fixation devices such as wires, plates, nails or screws might be needed to hold your bones in place during healing. Complications are rare, but can include infection and lack of bone healing.
  • #1 Broken wrist – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/broken-wrist/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353175
    To reduce pain, your doctor might recommend an over-the-counter pain reliever. If your pain is severe, you might need an opioid medication, such as codeine. […] NSAIDs can help with pain but might also hamper bone healing, especially if used long-term. Ask your doctor if you can take them for pain relief. […] If you have an open fracture, in which you have a wound or break in the skin near the wound site, you’ll likely be given an antibiotic to prevent infection that could reach the bone. […] After your cast or splint is removed, you’ll likely need rehabilitation exercises or physical therapy to reduce stiffness and restore movement in your wrist. Rehabilitation can help, but it can take several months or longer for complete healing. […] You might need surgery to implant pins, plates, rods or screws to hold your bones in place while they heal. A bone graft might be used to help healing. These options might be necessary if you have: An open fracture, A fracture in which the bone pieces move before they heal, Loose bone fragments that could enter a joint, Damage to the surrounding ligaments, nerves or blood vessels, Fractures that extend into a joint.
  • #1 Distal Radius Fracture: Diagnosis, Treatment, Recovery | HSS
    https://www.hss.edu/conditions_distal-radius-fractures-of-the-wrist.asp
    Casting provides external stability to the forearm and hand by the application of gentle pressure to the skin and underlying soft tissues. This provides a rigid mold and contains the reduction in proper alignment during the healing period. If the fracture is stable and has been successfully realigned by the reduction, casting may be the only treatment necessary. […] When surgery is necessary, there is usually a two-week window of opportunity before early bone healing begins. […] A common surgical option is ORIF (open reduction and internal fixation), in which an incision is made over the fracture on the palm side of the forearm, and internal fixation (a stainless steel or titanium plate with screws) is placed to align the bone ends and prevent displacement or loss of reduction. […] Fractures of the distal radius are very common and modern treatment methods of casting or internal fixation lead to excellent outcomes in most cases. Given the wide variety of fracture types, there is no one treatment that is effective for all fractures Each fracture requires carefully considered treatment that is customized to repair the specific fracture characteristics and meet the occupational and recreational needs of the patient.
  • #1 Broken wrist – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/broken-wrist/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353175
    Even after reduction and immobilization with a cast or splint, your bones can shift. So your doctor likely will monitor your progress with X-rays. If your bones move, you might then need surgery. […] In some cases, the surgeon will immobilize your fracture by using an external fixation device. This consists of a metal frame with two or more pins that go through your skin and into the bone on both sides of the fracture.
  • #1 Physical therapy in Lowell for Wrist Pain – Fractures
    https://www.fasttrackpt.com/Injuries-Conditions/Wrist/Wrist-Issues/Adult-Wrist-Fractures/a~5608/article.html
    A cast must be tight enough to hold the forearm and wrist securely but not so tight that it compresses the damaged and swollen tissues of the forearm. […] If the fracture is stable and non-displaced then its position does not need to be improved by manipulation, which means moving the bones. […] Frequently the position of the fracture is not acceptable. […] The external fixator apparatus allows the surgeon to distract the fracture, which keeps tension on it so that it is less likely to shorten and collapse. […] This technique has gained popularity and is the preferred method of treatment by many surgeons for unstable distal radius fractures. […] The main disadvantages of ORIF are the greater exposure of the fracture, which leads to concerns about infection and loss of blood supply, and the longer more elaborate surgery that may cause greater stress to the patient.
  • #1 Fracture care: wrist
    https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Fracture_care_wrist/
    Wrist fractures are common injuries in childhood. There are two bones in the forearm the radius and the ulna. In a wrist fracture, one or both of these bones may be broken. […] Sometimes the bones may need to be put back into position by a doctor or nurse practitioner in the emergency department or operating theatre, or your child may need surgery. […] Your child will need a cast to support and protect the bones while the fracture heals. It is important to care for your childs wrist and cast correctly after you leave hospital. […] Fractures are painful. Although immobilising the arm with a cast will help to reduce the pain, additional pain relief (e.g. paracetamol) is often needed. Give the pain relief medication regularly for the first few days, following the directions on the packet, or as directed by the doctor.
  • #1
    https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=uf7416
    Your wrist can break, or fracture, during sports or a fall. The break may happen when your wrist is hit or is used to protect you in a fall. Fractures can range from a small, hairline crack, to a bone or bones broken into two or more pieces. Your treatment depends on how bad the break is. […] Your doctor may have put your wrist in a cast or splint. This will help keep your wrist stable until your follow-up appointment. It may take weeks or months for your wrist to heal. You can help it heal with care at home. […] Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. […] Put ice or a cold pack on your wrist for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Try to do this every 1 to 2 hours for the next 3 days (when you are awake).
  • #1
    https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=uf7416
    Follow the splint or cast care instructions your doctor gives you. If you have a splint, do not take it off unless your doctor tells you to. […] Prop up your wrist on pillows when you sit or lie down in the first few days after the injury. Keep your wrist higher than the level of your heart. This will help reduce swelling. […] Move your fingers often to reduce swelling and stiffness, but do not use that hand to grab or carry anything. […] Follow instructions for exercises to keep your arm strong. […] Call your doctor or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if: You have new or worse pain. Your hand or fingers are cool or pale or change colour. Your cast or splint feels too tight. You have tingling, weakness, or numbness in your hand or fingers. […] Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if: You do not get better as expected. You have problems with your cast or splint.
  • #1 Guide | Physical Therapy Guide to Wrist Fracture | Choose PT
    https://www.choosept.com/guide/physical-therapy-guide-wrist-fracture
    A physical therapist can help people who have had a wrist fracture regain wrist motion, strength, and function. They also can teach them how to reduce their risk of future fractures. […] Your physical therapist will help you regain normal wrist motion, strength, and function. They also will provide education and training to help you avoid future fractures. […] While your bone heals, your arm will be in a cast or sling to keep it still and promote healing. During that time, it is important to ensure that your arm does not get too stiff, weak, or swollen. […] After removing your cast or sling, your wrist will most likely be stiff, and your arm will feel weak. Your physical therapist will examine your wrist and select treatments to improve its function and restore strength to your arm. […] Your physical therapist might use either warm or cold treatments or gentle electrical stimulation to help control pain or swelling in your wrist, hand, or arm.
  • #1 Broken Arm Recovery: What to Expect as You Heal | Integrated Rehabilitation Services
    https://integrehab.com/blog/physical-therapy/broken-arm-recovery/
    As your injury starts to heal, physical therapy helps reduce and manage potential stiffness in your arm, hand and shoulder that can result from wearing a cast or sling. Physical therapy often continues once you are no longer immobilizing the arm to further improve muscle strength and joint flexibility. […] After a broken arm, many patients experience decreased muscle and bone mass that affect how the joint or muscles in the injured area function. Physical therapy ultimately helps you restore movement and achieve a sense of normalcy. […] Expect 12 weeks for the broken or fractured arm to heal fully. Even with physical therapy, it can take up to two years for full strength to be restored. […] Certain people may find their sub-acute pain develops into a chronic condition resulting from scar tissue, nerve damage, arthritis or changes in how the brain perceives pain. As a result, its important to let your doctor know about these developments. You may be directed to additional physical therapy to manage chronic pain.
  • #1 What To Expect From Physical Therapy After A Broken Arm – OrthoRehab – Edina Physical TherapistsFacebookInstagramTwitterYouTubeFacebookInstagramTwitterYouTubeAccessibility ToolsIncrease TextDecrease TextGrayscaleHigh ContrastNegative ContrastLight Backgro
    https://www.orthorehabpt.com/what-to-expect-from-physical-therapy-after-a-broken-arm/
    Your physical therapist will also want to ensure that nearby structures that may have been affected by this immobilization are also cared for as you work to get back to normal movements. […] Most patients experience a full recovery from their broken arm within 12 weeks, but your recovery may end sooner or take longer depending on a number of different factors, like the type of fracture you suffered and what kind of activities you’re hoping to return to.
  • #1 Guide | Physical Therapy Guide to Wrist Fracture | Choose PT
    https://www.choosept.com/guide/physical-therapy-guide-wrist-fracture
    Your physical therapist may use skilled hands-on techniques (manual therapy) to enable your joints and muscles to move more freely with less pain. […] Physical therapists prescribe several types of exercises during recovery from a wrist fracture. […] Your physical therapist will help you remain independent by teaching you how to accomplish your daily activities (such as dressing, working on a computer, and cooking), even while wearing a cast or a sling. […] Everything your physical therapist prescribes for you will help prevent long-term disability. […] Physical therapists are experts at determining your risk of falling. They can teach you how to do balance exercises and take precautions to avoid falls. […] A physical therapist can teach weight-bearing exercises to help build stronger bones. […] For children, wearing proper protective gear, such as wrist guards, can reduce the risk of a wrist fracture when playing certain sports.
  • #1 Fracture exercises :: Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
    https://www.mcht.nhs.uk/our-services/virtual-fracture-clinic/fracture-exercises
    A broken arm can occur when any one of the three bones that make up your arm, the radius, ulna and humerus, are broken as a result of trauma. Recovery from a broken arm bone can take anywhere from a few weeks to over a month, depending on the type of break and the specific location of your injury. Following a period of immobilization to help your bone heal, your doctor is likely to prescribe physical therapy to help your arm return to its previous condition. […] Strength training is likely to include exercises designed to help restore muscular strength to your arm. […] Like the strength training exercises listed above, range of motion exercises are probably going to be prescribed to help restore full movement to your arm. […] Depending on your specific job, therapy for a broken arm may include exercises designed to get you ready to return to work.
  • #1
    https://www.myactionpt.com/physical-therapist-s-guide-to-wrist-fracture
    Your physical therapist might use either warm or cold therapeutic treatments, or electrical stimulation, to help control pain or swelling in your wrist, hand, or arm. […] Your physical therapist can help you adapt your exercise program, so that you can maintain your overall strength and fitness without interfering with the healing of your wrist. […] Your physical therapist will help you remain independent by teaching you how to perform your daily activities (eg, dressing, working on a computer, and cooking), even while wearing a cast or a sling. […] Your physical therapist will design your individualized program based on an examination of your wrist, goals, level of physical activity, and general health. […] Everything your physical therapist prescribes for you will help prevent long-term disability by: Returning the arm to a strong level of fitness.
  • #1
    https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=bo1655
    Here are some examples of exercises for you to try. The exercises may be suggested for a condition or for rehabilitation. Start each exercise slowly. Ease off the exercises if you start to have pain. […] You will be told when to start these exercises and which ones will work best for you. […] Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It’s also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
  • #1 Distal Radius Fractures (Broken Wrist) – OrthoInfo – AAOS
    https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/distal-radius-fractures-broken-wrist/
    A fracture of the distal radius occurs when the radius one of the two long bones in the forearm breaks close to the wrist. […] Distal radius fractures are very common. In fact, the radius is the most commonly broken bone in the arm. […] A distal radius fracture almost always occurs about 1 inch from the end of the bone. This very common fracture can occur in many different ways to people of all ages. […] It is important to classify the type of fracture because intra-articular fractures, open fractures, comminuted fractures, and displaced fractures (when the broken pieces of bone do not line up straight) are more difficult to treat than other types of fractures. […] The most common cause of a distal radius fracture is a fall onto an outstretched arm. […] A broken wrist can happen even in healthy bones if the force of the trauma is severe enough.
  • #1 Adult Forearm Fractures – OrthoInfo – AAOS
    https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/adult-forearm-fractures/
    Your forearm is made up of two bones: the radius and ulna. In most cases of adult forearm fractures, both bones are broken. […] Treatment of broken bones follows one basic rule: The broken pieces must be put back into position and prevented from moving out of place until they are healed. Because the radius and ulna rely on each other for support, it is important that they are properly stabilized. If the bones are not accurately aligned during healing, it may result in future problems with wrist and elbow movement. […] Most cases of adult forearm fractures require surgery to make sure the bones are stabilized and lined up for successful healing. […] While you are in the emergency room, the doctor may try to temporarily realign the bones, depending on how far out of place the pieces are. Reduction is the technical term for this process in which the doctor moves the pieces into place. This is not a surgical procedure. Your pain will be controlled with medication. Afterward, your doctor will apply a splint (like a cast) to your forearm and provide a sling to keep your arm in position.
  • #1 Broken Arm Edinburg | Forearm Fracture Mission | Broken Wrist Pain McAllen
    https://www.drelzaim.com/broken-arm-haissam-s-elzaim-orthopaedic-surgeon-mcallen.html
    The treatment of forearm fracture aims at putting back the broken bones into position and preventing them from moving out of place until they are completely healed. […] In case only one bone is broken and is not out of place, your doctor might treat it with a cast or brace and provide a sling to keep your arm in position. Your doctor will closely monitor the healing of the fracture. If the fracture shifts in position, you may be advised to undergo surgery to fix the bones back together. […] When both forearm bones are broken, surgery is usually required. During surgery, the cuts from the injury will be cleaned and the bone fragments are repositioned into their normal alignment. They are held together with screws and metal plates attached to the outer surface of the bone. The incision is sutured firmly and a sling is provided to facilitate healing.
  • #1 Broken Arms in Children | Boston Children’s Hospital
    https://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions/broken-arm
    A broken arm is a crack or break in one or more of the bones in arm. Broken arms, also known as arm fractures, are often caused by an impact injury, such as from a fall or collision. […] A simple arm fracture is usually treated with a splint or cast, however, a complex fracture may require surgery. With proper treatment, broken arms can heal completely. Children typically regain full use of their arm within a couple weeks after their final cast is removed. […] Treatment for a broken arm depends on the specific location and severity of the break, your child’s age, overall health, and medical history. […] Splints and casts immobilize injured bones to promote healing and reduce pain and swelling. They are sometimes put on after surgical procedures to ensure that the bone is protected and in the proper alignment as it heals. […] Surgery may be needed to put broken bones back into place. A surgeon may insert metal rods or pins located inside the bone (internal fixation) or outside the body (external fixation) to hold bone fragments in place to allow alignment and healing. This is done under general anesthesia.
  • #1 Wrist Fracture Folsom, CA | Hand Rehabilitation Therapy Folsom, CA
    https://www.folsomortho.com/wrist-fracture-orthopaedic-surgery-ca.html
    Fractures that are not displaced are treated with either a splint or a cast to hold the wrist in place. […] If the wrist bones are displaced, your surgeon may perform fracture reduction to align the bones. This is performed under local anesthesia. A splint or a cast is then placed to support the wrist and allow healing. […] Surgery is recommended to treat severely displaced wrist fractures and is carried out under the effect of general anesthesia. […] Internal fixation may be recommended to maintain the bones in proper position while they heal. Devices such as rods, plates and screws may be implanted at the fracture site. […] During the healing period, you may be asked to perform some motion exercises to keep your wrist flexible. Your doctor may recommend hand rehabilitation therapy or physical therapy to improve function, strength and reduce stiffness.
  • #1 Broken wrist – Diagnosis and treatment – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/broken-wrist/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353175
    The diagnosis of a broken wrist generally includes a physical exam of the affected hand and X-rays. […] If the broken ends of the bone aren’t aligned properly, there can be gaps between the pieces of bone or fragments might overlap. Your doctor will need to manipulate the pieces back into position, a procedure known as a reduction. Depending on the amount of pain and swelling you have, you might need a local or general anesthetic before this procedure. […] Whatever your treatment, it’s important to move your fingers regularly while the fracture is healing to keep them from stiffening. Ask your doctor about the best ways to move them. If you smoke, quit. Smoking can delay or prevent bone healing. […] Restricting the movement of a broken bone in your wrist is critical to proper healing. To do this, you’ll likely need a splint or a cast. You’ll be advised to keep your hand above heart level as much as possible to reduce swelling and pain.
  • #1 Broken Arm (Fractured Arm): Symptoms, Treatment & Recovery
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/broken-arm-fractured-arm
    It usually takes at least a few months to recover from a broken arm. Most people who break their arms need several months of physical therapy. A physical therapist will help you regain your strength and range of motion (how far you can move your arm). […] Ask your provider when you can resume physical activities. You’ll need to move your arm to prevent stiffness as you heal, but don’t start playing sports, working out or lifting using your arm before your provider says it’s safe.
  • #2 Distal Radius Fracture: Diagnosis, Treatment, Recovery | HSS
    https://www.hss.edu/conditions_distal-radius-fractures-of-the-wrist.asp
    A fracture of the distal radius is one of the most common types of injuries to the skeletal system. It is treated using a variety of different techniques, from casting to pinning to open surgery with plates and screws. […] Available treatment options depend on the type and severity of the fracture as well as the needs, health, and activity level of the injured patient, and these options need to be carefully individualized by the treating physician to achieve a satisfactory functional outcome. […] In general, the least invasive treatment provided it achieves our goals of satisfactory alignment and stable reduction of the fractured bone fragments results in a better functional outcome and patient satisfaction. […] As above, initial urgent care or emergency department treatment involves a reduction under local anesthesia followed by temporary splinting and outpatient care with an orthopedic hand or trauma surgeon. Stable fractures can generally be treated nonsurgically with casting for approximately six weeks. Unstable and/or displaced fractures in young and active individuals are often managed with surgery to align the fracture fragments and joint surfaces in order to optimize outcomes and a patients return to function.
  • #2 Broken arm or wrist
    https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/broken-arm-or-wrist/
    Get medical advice as soon as possible if you think you have broken your arm or wrist. Any possible breaks need to be treated as soon as possible. […] When you get to hospital the affected arm will be placed in a splint to support it and stop any broken bones from moving out of position. You will also be given painkilling medicines for the pain. An X-ray is then used to see if there is a break and how bad that break is. A plaster cast can be used to keep your arm in place until it heals. Sometimes this may be done a few days later to allow any swelling to go down first. You may be given a sling to support your arm. A doctor may try to fit the broken bones back into place with their hands before applying a splint or cast. You’ll be given medicine before this happens so you will not feel any pain. If you had a very bad break, surgery may be carried out to fix broken bones back into place.
  • #2 Resetting a Broken Bone: What to Expect
    https://www.verywellhealth.com/how-to-reset-a-fracture-2549328
    Resetting a broken bone involves placing the bone ends and fragments into their proper positions so that the bone can heal properly. This process is also called a fracture reduction. […] Your healthcare provider may either perform a closed reduction (in which the skin is not cut) or an open reduction (in which an incision is made to reset the bone with pins, screws, and other appliances). […] A fracture reduction requires a bone specialist known as an orthopedist who knows how to manipulate the broken ends into their original position and fix them securely into place. […] A fracture reduction involves manipulating the ends of the broken bone so that they are realigned into their original position. The approach differs for a closed and open reduction. […] For a closed reduction, the orthopedist will manipulate the bone ends in the following steps: Fracture distraction: This is where a broken bone is pulled out of its abnormal position. Increasing the deformity: This is when the broken bone is bent and moved. Decreasing the deformity: This is when the bone is released so that it is in the correct, straightened position.
  • #2 Hand & wrist fracture treatment – Orthopaedic Institute | Northwell Health
    https://www.northwell.edu/orthopaedic-institute/find-care/treatments/hand-wrist-fracture-treatment
    A hand fracture is a break in one or more of the bones in the hand and most often occurs after a significant trauma. A wrist fracture is full or partial breakage of one or both of the forearm bones, or one or more of the seven small wrist bones that, all together, make up the wrist. Wrist fractures are among the most common broken bone injuries making up approximately 16 percent of all fractures seen in the emergency room. […] The most suitable treatment for your hand or wrist fracture is determined by a number of factors including age, present health, health history, the severity and location of the fracture, and history with other medications and treatments. […] A wrist fracture is one of the easiest types of bone breakages to treat without surgery. Typically, a casting method is used to immobilize the bone while it heals. In some cases, the wrist may have come out of alignment when it broke; when this happens, the doctor may use local anesthesia to realign the wrist and put it on the right track for healing.
  • #2 Bone fractures | Better Health Channel
    https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/bone-fractures
    Treatment includes immobilising the bone with a plaster cast, or surgically inserting metal rods or plates to hold the bone pieces together. […] Some complicated fractures may need surgery or surgical traction (or both). […] Depending on where the fracture is and how severe, treatment may include: splints to stop movement of the broken limb, braces to support the bone, plaster cast to provide support and immobilise the bone, traction a less common option, surgically inserted metal rods or plates to hold the bone pieces together, pain relief to reduce pain. […] A cast made from plaster of Paris is one of the most common ways of immobilising a limb. […] After surgery, your doctor will check that you have full feeling in the area. […] Nurses will offer you pain-relieving medication.
  • #2 Broken arm | Altru Health System
    https://www.altru.org/health-library/conditions/broken-arm
    Restricting movement of a broken bone, which requires a splint, sling, brace or cast, is critical to healing. […] Rehabilitation begins soon after initial treatment. In most cases, it’s important, if possible, to begin some motion to minimize stiffness in your arm, hand and shoulder while you’re wearing your cast or sling. […] After your cast or sling is removed, your doctor might recommend additional rehabilitation exercises or physical therapy to restore muscle strength, joint motion and flexibility. […] Surgery is required to stabilize some fractures. If the fracture didn’t break the skin, your doctor might wait to do surgery until the swelling has gone down. Keeping your arm from moving and elevating it will decrease swelling. […] Fixation devices such as wires, plates, nails or screws might be needed to hold your bones in place during healing. Complications are rare, but can include infection and lack of bone healing.
  • #2 Broken Arm (Fractured Arm): Symptoms, Treatment & Recovery
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/broken-arm-fractured-arm
    A broken arm happens when any of the three bones in your arm are fractured. Most people need to wear a cast for several weeks while their arm heals. […] You might need surgery to repair a broken arm. Some people can recover without surgery and only need a cast, splint or brace. You’ll need physical therapy to regain your arm’s strength and ability to move. […] If the fracture is mild and your bones didn’t move far out of place (a non-displaced fracture), you might only need a cast or splint. How long you’ll need to wear one depends on the type of fracture you have. Most people need a cast for several weeks. You’ll need follow-up X-rays to make sure your bones are healing correctly. […] Some broken arms require surgery. The most common surgery is an open reduction with internal fixation. Your surgeon will realign (set) your bone to their correct position and then secure it in place so it can heal and grow back together.
  • #2 Adult Forearm Fractures – OrthoInfo – AAOS
    https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/adult-forearm-fractures/
    If only one bone is broken and it is not out of place, it may be possible to treat it with a cast or brace. Your doctor will closely monitor the healing of the fracture, and have you return to the clinic for X-rays frequently. If the fracture shifts in position, you may require surgery to put the bones back together. […] When both forearm bones are broken, or if the bones have punctured the skin (open fracture), surgery is usually required. […] Open reduction and internal fixation with plates and screws. This is the most common type of surgical repair for forearm fractures. During this procedure, the doctor first repositions (reduces) the bone fragments into their normal alignment. The bones are held together with special screws and metal plates attached to the outer surface of the bone.
  • #2 Adult Forearm Fractures – OrthoInfo – AAOS
    https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/adult-forearm-fractures/
    Open reduction and internal fixation with rods. During this procedure, the doctor inserts a specially designed metal rod through the marrow space in the center of the bone. […] External fixation. If the skin, muscles, and bone are severely damaged, using plates and screws and large incisions may injure the skin further. This may result in infection. In this case, you may be treated with an external fixator. In this type of operation, the doctor places metal pins into the bone above and below the fracture site. The pins and screws are attached to a bar outside the skin. This device is a stabilizing frame that holds the bones in the proper position so they can heal. […] Bones have a remarkable capacity to heal. Forearm bones typically take 3 to 6 months to fully heal. The more severe your injury, however, the longer your recovery may be.
  • #2 Recovering from a Distal Radius Fracture
    https://www.sports-health.com/sports-injuries/hand-and-wrist-injuries/recovering-distal-radius-fracture
    Distal radius fractures can be reset either with surgery (open reduction) or without it (closed reduction). This article discusses the recovery process for both approaches, plus the pain management tactics that can be used for all patients. […] During recovery, these pain management techniques can be used for patients: Physicians may prescribe a short course of opioid pain medications after a reduction. The prescription period will usually be brief, since opioids can cause troubling side effects and addiction. Patients can use non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Alieve) to manage pain and inflammation. NSAIDs may cause mild side effects and should be taken as directed. Ice therapy is a simple, low-risk way to manage pain and inflammation. Icing sessions can be done for 5 to 10 minutes every hour. Patients should avoid placing ice directly onto the skin, which can cause damage.
  • #2 How to Treat a Broken Arm During First Aid – HSST
    https://carpaltunnelpros.com/2019/08/05/how-to-treat-a-broken-arm-during-first-aid/
    If your arm might be broken, what you do next is crucial. You want to make sure you dont make the injury or broken bone worse. You should understand the proper first aid broken arm treatment you can do as you wait for medical attention. […] You will need to go to the hospital if there is any bone sticking out of the skin, the bleeding wont stop after firm pressure for several minutes, or you see blood spurting from the wound. […] The next thing you will want to do is reduce swelling. To do this apply ice to the injured area. You also want to elevate your arm above your heart if you can. […] After youve done the following, you will want to see your health care provider as soon as possible. This is an incredibly important step, as they can tell you if your arm is broken, and what can be done to properly heal your broken arm.
  • #2 Fracture care: wrist
    https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Fracture_care_wrist/
    During the first two days and nights it is important for your child to rest and elevate their wrist above heart level to minimise swelling. From the third day, it is only necessary to elevate the wrist overnight. […] Use an arm sling for the first week, making sure the fingers are above the level of the elbow. […] Itching under the cast is common. Make sure your child avoids scratching inside the cast as this may damage the skin and cause infection. […] If your child has a plaster cast, it is important to keep the cast clean and dry. For showering or bathing, seal the cast in a plastic bag with tape or a rubber band. Never allow your child to immerse the cast in water, even if it is in a plastic bag. […] Severe pain and swelling, change in the colour of the fingers (white or blue), numbness or pins and needles, and inability to move the fingers are signs that the arm has not been elevated for long enough or that your childs cast may be too tight.
  • #2
    https://www.myactionpt.com/physical-therapist-s-guide-to-wrist-fracture
    Your physical therapist might use either warm or cold therapeutic treatments, or electrical stimulation, to help control pain or swelling in your wrist, hand, or arm. […] Your physical therapist can help you adapt your exercise program, so that you can maintain your overall strength and fitness without interfering with the healing of your wrist. […] Your physical therapist will help you remain independent by teaching you how to perform your daily activities (eg, dressing, working on a computer, and cooking), even while wearing a cast or a sling. […] Your physical therapist will design your individualized program based on an examination of your wrist, goals, level of physical activity, and general health. […] Everything your physical therapist prescribes for you will help prevent long-term disability by: Returning the arm to a strong level of fitness.
  • #2 Broken Arm Recovery: What to Expect as You Heal | Integrated Rehabilitation Services
    https://integrehab.com/blog/physical-therapy/broken-arm-recovery/
    As your injury starts to heal, physical therapy helps reduce and manage potential stiffness in your arm, hand and shoulder that can result from wearing a cast or sling. Physical therapy often continues once you are no longer immobilizing the arm to further improve muscle strength and joint flexibility. […] After a broken arm, many patients experience decreased muscle and bone mass that affect how the joint or muscles in the injured area function. Physical therapy ultimately helps you restore movement and achieve a sense of normalcy. […] Expect 12 weeks for the broken or fractured arm to heal fully. Even with physical therapy, it can take up to two years for full strength to be restored. […] Certain people may find their sub-acute pain develops into a chronic condition resulting from scar tissue, nerve damage, arthritis or changes in how the brain perceives pain. As a result, its important to let your doctor know about these developments. You may be directed to additional physical therapy to manage chronic pain.
  • #2 Broken Wrist (Wrist Fracture): Symptoms & Recovery Time
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/broken-wrist-wrist-fracture
    During your recovery, your provider may advise you to keep your fingers, elbows and shoulders moving (as appropriate) to prevent stiffness, and your arm raised above your heart level to prevent swelling. […] They may refer you to a physical therapist to help regain your strength, function and motion. […] A provider can help determine what kind of fracture you have and how to treat it. The road to recovery can take some time, but with appropriate treatment, you can make sure you heal properly and avoid complications.
  • #2 Hand therapy for a fractured wrist – Hand Therapy Centre
    https://handtherapycentre.com.au/hand-therapy-for-a-fractured-wrist/
    Your hand therapist will work closely with your GP to manage your fracture. In some cases, you may be referred to a see a hand specialist for further imaging and examination. […] Casts are normally removed after 6 weeks. If the bone has to be reset (manipulated into its original position), you may need to return for periodic x-rays. Its normal for there to be some stiffness for a month or two after your cast is removed and it may take several months to regain normal strength. Your hand therapist will guide you through some recovery exercises. […] Its important you dont drive, play sport or return to other physical activities until you have clearance from your doctor. […] In some cases, wrist fractures may require ORIF surgery (pin and plate surgery). This procedure involves the surgeon making an incision and realigning the fractured bone into the correct position. The bone is internally held in place with pins, screws and/or wires. The incision is then closed up using stitches or sutures.
  • #2 Broken Arm: How Long Does It Take To Heal?
    https://www.cast21.com/blog/broken-arm-healing-time
    The healing process for a broken arm can vary depending on the type of break you have. A simple break, where the bone has not moved out of place, will typically heal within 4-8 weeks. A more complex break, where the bone has moved out of place, may take longer to heal and may require surgery to correct. In general, most people can expect to have their cast removed and full use of their arm back within 3-4 months. […] If you have suffered a broken arm, you may be wondering how long you will need to wear a cast. The answer depends on several factors, including the type of fracture and the location of the break. For example, a simple break may only require 4-6 weeks in a cast, while a more complex break may require 8-12 weeks. […] Physical therapy can help to stretch and strengthen the muscles and tissues in the arm, which can ease pain, reduce swelling, and promote healing. Follow your doctor’s instructions for physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises. […] Follow-up appointments with your doctor are important to ensure that your broken arm is healing properly. If you have any concerns during your recovery, be sure to bring them up at your next physical exam.
  • #2 Physical Therapy After Broken Bone – Ventura Orthopedics
    https://venturaortho.com/physical-therapy-after-broken-bone/
    As your injury starts to heal, physical therapy helps reduce and manage potential stiffness in your arm, hand and shoulder that can result from wearing a cast or sling. Physical therapy often continues once you are no longer immobilizing the arm to further improve muscle strength and joint flexibility. […] While recovering from a broken arm, expect to do hand or shoulder exercises based on the injury’s location. Once the cast, sling or brace is taken off, therapy will progress to full arm motion exercises. Especially if you underwent surgery, this phase of therapy may last a few months. […] Along with motion, physical therapy can address sub-acute pain and potential weakness that affect how you lift and hold items. After a broken arm, many patients experience decreased muscle and bone mass that affect how the joint or muscles in the injured area function. Physical therapy ultimately helps you restore movement and achieve a sense of normalcy.
  • #2 8 Exercises to Try After Arm/Wrist/Hand Cast Removal | Performance Health
    https://www.performancehealth.com/articles/8-Exercises-to-Try-After-Arm-Wrist-Hand-Cast-Removal?srsltid=AfmBOoqz3-I2j298lsucPliyT267WTj7JeVw-zXubn4zOFGF6kUZn7iS
    It is not unusual for joints to feel stiff and swollen immediately after plaster removal. After the cast has been removed, the limb will still require some time to complete the healing process and return to normal function. […] After a cast is removed, you might experience limited mobility, stiffness, or swelling in your arm, hand, or wrist. […] Its important to adhere to the exercises for fractures as recommended by a physical or occupational therapist to properly regain muscle strength. […] Occupational or physical therapy for wrist or arm injuries is essential to the recovery process. It is designed to help restore the function of your upper extremities along with strengthening and retraining the surrounding muscle groups. […] It is important that you start arm and wrist exercises after cast removal as soon as possible. If you avoid strength training with a physical therapist or at-home arm and wrist injury exercises, it can leave you with damaged muscles. By exercising and regaining normal movements, the feeling of stiffness and pain will gradually subside. Your therapist might require you to do exercises 3-5 times a day.
  • #2 What to Expect During Broken Arm Recovery – OC Sports & Rehab
    https://ocsportsandrehab.com/what-to-expect-during-broken-arm-recovery/
    A broken arm can occur as a result of a fall, an athletic injury, or a variety of other mishaps. To allow the arm to heal, it is frequently immobilized with a splint, brace, or cast. […] When the fracture does not break the skin or the bone is fractured into pieces, surgery may be required. As a result, treatment varies depending on the type of damage. […] While immobility is expected during recovery, physical therapy may be prescribed to assist restore functioning by strengthening the joint’s muscles and improving movement. […] Physical therapy can help lessen and control potential stiffness in your arm, hand, and shoulder caused by wearing a cast or sling as your injury heals. Once the arm is no longer immobilized, physical treatment is generally continued to enhance muscle strength and joint flexibility. […] Physical therapy helps you regain movement and a sense of normalcy in the long run.
  • #2
    https://www.myactionpt.com/physical-therapist-s-guide-to-wrist-fracture
    Physical therapists are experts at determining your risk of falling, and can teach you how to perform balance exercises and take precautions to avoid falls. […] Your physical therapist can teach weight-bearing exercises to help build stronger bones. […] Your physical therapist may refer you to a nutritionist for vitamin D supplements or other dietary changes to help make your bones stronger. […] Your physical therapist will help you to control any swelling, maintain and improve your hand and wrist flexibility, build your strength, and improve your range of motion, allowing you to safely return to your preinjury activity levels. […] Your physical therapist will work with you to develop an individualized plan with you for this condition.
  • #2 Physical Therapy for a Broken Wrist: Treatment and Exercises | Miracle Rehab Clinic
    https://www.miraclerehabclinic.com/blog/physical-therapy-for-a-broken-wrist
    Physical therapy aids the circulation of blood and oxygen to the affected area(s), speeding up the healing process. […] Physical therapy usually lasts 4-12 weeks, but general lifestyle changes are very important for a full recovery. For comprehensive care and an effective support system to fast-track your healing with physical therapy exercises for a broken wrist, contact Miracle Rehab Clinic. […] Once your doctor has recommended you start moving your wrist because your fracture has healed to an extent. This can take between 4-6 weeks, sometimes longer for some people. […] You should do the following exercises gently to heal your broken wrist: […] These are just some of the few exercises recommended for a broken wrist.
  • #2 Wrist fracture: Risk factors, treatment, and recovery
    https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/wrist-fracture
    A fractured wrist is a common injury that people can often treat with splints and rest. Recovery takes about 68 weeks, and people should avoid heavy lifting for about 6 weeks after treatment. […] Some people may require surgery, but this depends on how quickly the fracture heals and how much damage it has caused. Physical therapy can also speed up the recovery process. […] Surgical treatment for a wrist fracture typically includes placing screws and plates in the broken bones and may also include wiring or pins to hold them in place. […] Recovery time could be several weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the fracture. […] People should abstain from contact sports for 12 weeks following a wrist fracture. […] Most wrist fractures heal in 68 weeks with adequate care and treatment.
  • #2 Distal Radius Fractures (Broken Wrist) – OrthoInfo – AAOS
    https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/distal-radius-fractures-broken-wrist/
    A broken wrist usually causes immediate pain, tenderness, bruising, and swelling. […] If the injury is very painful, the wrist is severely deformed, or the fingers are numb or pale, go immediately to an urgent care center or emergency room for further treatment. […] The treatment of broken bones follows one basic rule: The broken pieces must be put back into position and prevented from moving out of place until they are healed. […] There are many treatment options for a distal radius fracture. The choice depends on many factors, such as the nature of the fracture, your age and activity level, and the surgeon’s best judgment. […] If the broken bone is in a good position, a cast may be applied until the bone heals. […] If your broken bone is out of place and likely to limit the future use of your arm, it may be necessary to re-align the broken bone fragments.
  • #2 Wrist Fracture | Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
    https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/wrist-fracture
    Wrist fractures are the most commonly broken bones in the arm. Fractures of the wrist may involve several different bones including the radius and ulna the two bones of the forearm as well as the scaphoid, lunate and triquetrum three smaller carpal bones in the hand. […] The type of wrist fracture you child sustains will determine its severity, recommended treatment, and how long it will take your child to recover. […] Complex, displaced and intra-articular fractures near the wrist can be more challenging to treat and require specialized expertise from experienced physicians. […] Accurate diagnosis helps us determine the best course of treatment for your child. […] Treatment for your childs wrist fracture will depend on the type of fracture, as well as the age and development of your child.
  • #2 Wrist Fracture | Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
    https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/wrist-fracture
    If your childs distal radius fracture is not too severe and the bone is positioned correctly, the broken wrist will likely be placed in a plaster cast until the bone heals. […] For children with a simple, displaced fracture where the bone is not lined up properly a procedure called a closed reduction may be needed to reposition the bone. […] Once complete, a splint or cast will be applied to keep the bone in place as it heals. […] If your childs wrist fracture is severe, the bone is broken in multiple places, involves the joint, or the bones cannot be correctly positioned outside the skin, surgery will be necessary. […] To stabilize the fracture and keep the bones in the correct position as they heal, the surgeon may use a cast, metal pins, plate and screws, external fixator or a combination of techniques.
  • #2 Broken Wrist: Signs, Treatment, and Recovery
    https://www.healthline.com/health/bone-health/broken-wrist
    It’s a good idea to make time to take care of yourself when you’re recovering from a broken wrist. You can take steps at home to help your body heal and recover. […] Once your cast is removed, it can help to do exercises at home to strengthen your wrist. Your physical therapist can give you exercises specific to your break and range of motion. […] Most people recover from a broken wrist without any long-term complications. However, long-term complications are possible, including: […] Physical therapy, occupational therapy, exercise, medication, and surgery can help you heal and manage your pain.
  • #2 Malunion Fractures | University of Michigan Health
    https://www.uofmhealth.org/conditions-treatments/cmc/fracture/malunion
    With fractures in the hand, wrist and forearm, a certain amount of angulation, or bend, occurs when the bone heals. […] In many cases, when a fracture heals in a position that interferes with the use of the involved limb, surgery can be performed to correct it. […] If you fractured a finger, hand, wrist or elbow, and it has healed but no longer functions well, you should seek an opinion from a doctor who knows the upper extremity of the body well. […] For decades the University of Michigan Department of Orthopaedic Surgery — one of the oldest and most well-regarded orthopaedic units in the nation — has provided excellent treatment for malunion fractures. […] The goal of treatment is to realign your bone in a position that improves the function of the upper extremity. […] While you are under anesthesia in the operating room, your surgeon will re-break the bone to realign the fracture.
  • #2
    https://myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=uf7416
    Follow the splint or cast care instructions your doctor gives you. If you have a splint, do not take it off unless your doctor tells you to. […] Prop up your wrist on pillows when you sit or lie down in the first few days after the injury. Keep your wrist higher than the level of your heart. This will help reduce swelling. […] Move your fingers often to reduce swelling and stiffness, but do not use that hand to grab or carry anything. […] Follow instructions for exercises to keep your arm strong. […] Call your doctor or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if: You have new or worse pain. Your hand or fingers are cool or pale or change colour. Your cast or splint feels too tight. You have tingling, weakness, or numbness in your hand or fingers. […] Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if: You do not get better as expected. You have problems with your cast or splint.
  • #2 Wrist fracture | NHS inform
    https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/muscle-bone-and-joints/arm-shoulder-and-hand-problems-and-conditions/wrist-fracture/
    This information is for anyone who has a wrist fracture that doesnt require surgery. […] After a wrist fracture, most of the healing happens between 6 to 12 weeks. […] Stopping smoking as your fracture heals will help to ensure the best recovery. […] Eating a healthy diet and keeping yourself active will help your recovery. […] You can start gentle exercises, as guided by your healthcare professional. […] You can start exercises for your wrist once advised by your healthcare professional. […] If your wrist function hasnt improved within 6 weeks of following this advice, its a good idea to talk to a healthcare professional about your symptoms. […] Its important that swelling is managed well to help your recovery. […] To help reduce the swelling you can try to: raise your arm above your heart when resting you can do this by supporting it with pillows. […] Keep doing any activities youre able to, as your pain allows. Over time, gradually increase what you do.
  • #2 Distal Radius Fractures (Broken Wrist) – OrthoInfo – AAOS
    https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/distal-radius-fractures-broken-wrist/
    After the bone is properly aligned, a splint or cast may be placed on your arm to keep the bones aligned. […] Depending on the nature of the fracture, your doctor may closely monitor the healing by taking regular X-rays. […] In non-operative fractures, the cast is typically removed about 6 weeks after the fracture happened. At that point, you will likely start physical therapy to help improve the motion and function of the injured wrist. […] Sometimes, the position of the bone cannot be corrected with a closed reduction alone and/or cannot or kept corrected in a cast. […] Surgery typically involves making an incision on the wrist over the fracture to access the broken bone(s). […] Recovery should be expected to take at least 1 year. […] Most patients will be able to resume light activities, such as swimming or exercising the lower body in the gym, within 1 to 2 months after the cast is removed or within 1 to 2 months after surgery. […] Finally, osteoporosis is a factor in many wrist fractures.
  • #2 Broken Arm Facts: Types, Treatment, Healing Time & Pain Relief
    https://www.emedicinehealth.com/broken_arm/article_em.htm
    How Long Does a Broken Arm Take to Heal? The majority of fractures heal and normal arm movement is restored. Recovery can take six to eight weeks, while it can take a full year for the broken bone to fully heal. Many of these factors based on the individual injury and medical history may determine the outcome of a broken bone: Earlier treatment usually improves results. Fractures in younger children and adolescents tend to heal better. Fractures that have multiple breaks, involve a joint, have open wounds, or become infected could have healing complications. Older adults have an increased chance of losing some ability or movement in the broken arm. Chronic diseases such as osteoporosis and diabetes may slow the healing process.
  • #3 Adult Forearm Fractures – OrthoInfo – AAOS
    https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/adult-forearm-fractures/
    Open reduction and internal fixation with rods. During this procedure, the doctor inserts a specially designed metal rod through the marrow space in the center of the bone. […] External fixation. If the skin, muscles, and bone are severely damaged, using plates and screws and large incisions may injure the skin further. This may result in infection. In this case, you may be treated with an external fixator. In this type of operation, the doctor places metal pins into the bone above and below the fracture site. The pins and screws are attached to a bar outside the skin. This device is a stabilizing frame that holds the bones in the proper position so they can heal. […] Bones have a remarkable capacity to heal. Forearm bones typically take 3 to 6 months to fully heal. The more severe your injury, however, the longer your recovery may be.
  • #3 Wrist Fracture | Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
    https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/wrist-fracture
    Follow-up care for wrist fractures will depend on the treatment needed. […] Children with complex fractures who need surgery will wear a cast or external fixator for six weeks. […] Once the fracture is stable, your child will be encouraged to begin motion exercises to limit stiffness and regain range of movement. […] Depending on the complexity of your childs fracture, physical therapy may also be recommended. […] Wrist fractures are common but temporary conditions. […] Long-term follow-up is not necessary and complete recovery is typical.
  • #3 Broken Arm: Symptoms, Causes, Risk Factors & Treatment
    https://resources.healthgrades.com/right-care/bones-joints-and-muscles/broken-arm
    Surgery to repair multiple fractures in one or several arm bones or to treat open fractures. […] Some of the most common complications of a broken arm or the surgery to treat it are: Compartment syndrome, a post-fracture complication in which excessive bleeding or swelling cut off the arm’s blood supply leading to tissue death resulting in the need for amputation.
  • #3 Malunion Fractures | University of Michigan Health
    https://www.uofmhealth.org/conditions-treatments/cmc/fracture/malunion
    Depending on the type of malunion, some of the bone may need to be trimmed to allow for proper orientation of the fractured ends. […] To keep the straightened bone in proper alignment, your surgeon may insert screws, plates, and/or pins. […] Additionally, the surgeon may perform a bone graft to aid in fracture healing. […] After several weeks of immobilization, you will probably be stiff and weak in your hand / wrist. We often send patients to an Occupational Therapist with the goal of regaining functional use of the operative hand.
  • #3 How to Treat a Broken Arm During First Aid – HSST
    https://carpaltunnelpros.com/2019/08/05/how-to-treat-a-broken-arm-during-first-aid/
    You health care provider will likely take x-rays of your arm and will also probably apply a splint or cast. You might need surgery to realign broken bones or reset your bone. […] If you think someone has broken their arm or wrist, youll want to call 911 or seek medical attention immediately. […] When you get to the hospital for broken arm treatment, you will likely first be given painkillers and a splint for support to keep your arm in one position. […] If the fracture is minor, a removable splint and or plaster cast will be applied. […] If you have a serious fracture, then your doctor might try to realign your broken bones with their hands first. […] Your cast needs to stay on you until the broken bone has healed. This takes about a month or two but can be longer if you have more a severe break.
  • #3 Fracture care: wrist
    https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Fracture_care_wrist/
    Your child will usually need to have an X-ray and review five to seven days after they injure their wrist. The cast will not need to be removed for this X-ray. […] When the cast is removed, the skin may be dry and itchy. Bathe with warm water and soap, and apply a gentle, non-perfumed moisturiser. […] The wrist may be stiff when the cast first comes off, but children normally regain wrist movement and strength by using the arm for gentle activity and play. Physiotherapy is not often required. […] Your doctor will give you specific advice regarding your childs return to sport, which in most cases may be resumed four to six weeks after the cast is removed. […] Seek urgent medical attention if after elevating the arm for 30 minutes your child still shows signs that the cast is too tight. […] Follow your doctors advice about returning to sport after the cast has been removed.
  • #3 Hand and Wrist Fracture Treatment – KCOApinelbowkneeneckcommunityconversationcustomerdollarambulancecalendarcredit-cardinteractiveinterrogationsmartphonestethoscopefootgraduation-capplaywarningbackhandjointkcknee-2leglikehipssmuscle-painpaper-planepin-gho
    https://kcorthoalliance.com/hand-and-wrist-fracture-treatment/
    To promote healing, Dr. Deardorff recommends you take Vitamin D and obtain enough calcium from your diet each day. […] The bone may take 8 to 16 weeks to fully heal inside a cast, and you will need a CT scan to ensure the bone is healing. […] If surgery is your best option, you will go through an outpatient procedure. Surgery typically involves placing a screw across the bone. […] Hand and wrist fractures often require more follow-up visits than other conditions, especially unstable fractures. […] After surgery, you will wear a bulky dressing, but you can move your fingers immediately (do not overuse your hand). […] Surgery for hand arthritis may include arthroplasty to remove the damaged joint and replace it with an artificial one. […] After surgery, you will receive restrictions you must follow, and if your job breaks those restrictions, it is your responsibility to make the right choice for your recovery.
  • #3 Hand therapy for a fractured wrist – Hand Therapy Centre
    https://handtherapycentre.com.au/hand-therapy-for-a-fractured-wrist/
    Your hand therapist will work closely with your GP to manage your fracture. In some cases, you may be referred to a see a hand specialist for further imaging and examination. […] Casts are normally removed after 6 weeks. If the bone has to be reset (manipulated into its original position), you may need to return for periodic x-rays. Its normal for there to be some stiffness for a month or two after your cast is removed and it may take several months to regain normal strength. Your hand therapist will guide you through some recovery exercises. […] Its important you dont drive, play sport or return to other physical activities until you have clearance from your doctor. […] In some cases, wrist fractures may require ORIF surgery (pin and plate surgery). This procedure involves the surgeon making an incision and realigning the fractured bone into the correct position. The bone is internally held in place with pins, screws and/or wires. The incision is then closed up using stitches or sutures.
  • #4 Broken Arm: Care Instructions | Kaiser Permanente
    https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/health-wellness/health-encyclopedia/he.broken-arm-care-instructions.uf7328
    Fractures can range from a small, hairline crack, to a bone or bones broken into two or more pieces. Your treatment depends on how bad the break is. […] Your doctor may have put your arm in a splint or cast to allow it to heal or to keep it stable until you see another doctor. It may take weeks or months for your arm to heal. You can help your arm heal with some care at home. […] Follow the cast care instructions your doctor gives you. If you have a splint, do not take it off unless your doctor tells you to. […] Prop up your arm on pillows when you sit or lie down in the first few days after the injury. Keep the arm higher than the level of your heart. This will help reduce swelling. […] Follow instructions for exercises to keep your arm strong. […] Wiggle your fingers and wrist often to reduce swelling and stiffness.