HealthInfo Canterbury
Your wrist has been put in a cast to stop it moving. This is so your bones can heal properly in a good position.
Because of your injury, your arm might:
People usually need to have their cast on for six weeks. You'll be able to begin using your arm normally once your cast is taken off, but it may be up to three months before you can return to heavy activity or sports.
If either:
contact the place you had your cast put on or your general practice team as soon as possible.
You can do some light activities with your arm such as eating, writing, typing, dressing yourself, using your cellphone and folding laundry.
You can shower with your cast on, but you need to keep it dry. Avoid getting the cast wet by wrapping your arm in a plastic bag whenever you're in contact with water.
You shouldn't grip strongly or lift heavy things with an arm that is in a cast. Do not stick objects down inside your cast.
Swelling is common after a fracture. You can help to reduce the swelling by raising your arm. To do this, rest your hand on multiple pillows – above the level of your heart. Moving your fingers also helps to reduce swelling.
A sling isn't usually needed for wrist or hand fractures. If you've been given a sling, use it as little as possible. This will stop your shoulder and elbow getting stiff. You need to take the sling off regularly to do your exercises. You should take the sling off when sleeping.
Physiotherapy may be recommended after your fracture has healed and your cast is off.
A physiotherapist can help with exercises and advice to develop your hand, wrist and arm strength so you can return to your normal activities, work or physical activity. You should see an ACC private practice physiotherapist or hand therapist. You may need to make a co-payment for these sessions. You can choose a clinic that suits you best.
The following exercises are important. They will prevent stiffness in your elbow and shoulder and help with swelling. Do them four times a day.
1. Shoulder
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2. Elbow
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3. Fingers
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4. Thumb
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Written by Orthopaedic and Physiotherapy Services, Christchurch Hospital. Adapted by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed November 2022.
Review key: HISHI-13267