Broken Wrist
Recovering from a broken arm or wrist
The plaster cast will need to stay on until the bone has healed. The length of timeit will take to heal will depend on the type of fracture, whether it's damaged the surrounding tissues, and the person's age.
For example,a young child who'scracked their wrist will need to wear a cast or removable splint for just two to three weeks. However,in older people, a wrist injury can take much longer to heal and stiffness is very common.
A useful rule of thumb is that the time taken for the bone to regain full strength is usually the same as the time it takes for the fracture to heal. That is, if youve been in plaster for six weeks, it will take six weeks to regain full strength.
It's importantnot to get a plaster cast wet.
Your arm may be stiff and weak after being in a cast. Physiotherapy can help build strength in the arm muscles and restore full movement. However, it's rarely needed for children.
The risk ofre-breaking or cracking the bone after the plaster castis removed is increased, particularly in children. Children should avoid using trampolines, bouncy castles, soft play areas and playing contact sports for a further two to three weeks to minimise this risk.
Adults shouldn't drive while their arm isin a cast. Ask your doctor for advice about when youcan drive again.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018
Introduction
A broken arm or wrist is usually caused by a fall onto an outstretched arm. It typically takes about six to eight weeks to heal in adults, and less time in children.
How can I tell if the arm or wrist is broken?
A broken arm or wrist bone will be extremely painful and there may also be: swelling or tenderness around the injured area bleeding, if the bone has damaged the tissue and skin These symptoms m
What you can do
It's important not to eat or drink anything if you think you've broken your arm because you may need a general anaesthetic so that the bone can be realigned. Before reaching hospital, a sling may hel
How a broken arm or wristis treated
A broken arm or wrist is usually treated in a hospital accident and emergency department . The treatment differs depending on the severity of the injury. A doctor will give you or your child painkill
Recovering from a broken arm or wrist
The plaster cast will need to stay on until the bone has healed. The length of timeit will take to heal will depend on the type of fracture, whether it's damaged the surrounding tissues, and the perso
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