How long should a broken wrist be in a cast?

Splinting or casting You may need to wear a splint for a few days, or a week, while the swelling in your wrist reduces. Our doctors then likely will place a cast on the wrist, which you should plan to wear for 6-8 weeks.

How long does a wrist cast take?

Usually a cast will remain on for up to six weeks. Then you will be given a removable wrist splint to wear for comfort and support. Once the cast is removed, you can start physical therapy to regain proper wrist function and strength.

Does a broken wrist always need a cast?

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.

Can a broken wrist heal in 3 weeks?

Hand and wrist fractures often heal in 4-6 weeks whereas a tibia fracture may take 20 weeks or more. Healing time for fractures are divided into three phases: 1. Inflammatory Phase: starts at the time of injury and lasts 1-2 weeks.

Can I move my fingers with a broken wrist?

Some people can still move or use the hand or wrist even if there is a broken bone. Swelling or a bone out of place can make the wrist appear deformed. There is often pain right around the break and with finger movement. Sometimes the fingers tingle or feel numb at the tips.

How long is surgery for a broken wrist?

This typically takes between 12-36 hours. You will not feel pain and you will receive medicine that will make you forget the majority of the surgical procedure.

How long does it take to set a cast?

Be especially careful with a plaster cast for the first 1 to 2 days because it can easily crack or break while it is drying and hardening. It can take up to 24 to 48 hours for the cast to completely harden.

How do you sleep with a broken wrist?

Invest in a specialized pillow, like a body pillow, for elevation—keeping the broken bone above your heart prevents blood from pooling and causing swelling. Try sleeping on your back first while propped up on a few pillows. If that doesn’t work, slowly adjust yourself to a side position if possible.

How do you treat a broken wrist in a cast?

You may need to keep your wrist raised in the daytime and while sleeping.

  1. Apply Ice. Placing ice on your wrist can help stop swelling and relieve pain. However, it’s important to keep your cast dry.
  2. Apply Ice. Placing ice on your wrist can help stop swelling and relieve pain. However, it’s important to keep your cast dry.