How a broken wrist heals after you brace for a crash
A hand surgeon's take on a distal radius fracture
Bracing yourself during a collision can break the lower end of the radius. That’s the bone in your forearm on the thumb side. Some of these breaks reach into the wrist joint. [1]
Treatment may mean a splint or a cast. Some people need an operation that uses plates, pins or other supports. The goal is for the wrist to heal in a working position while your fingers and the nerves nearby stay healthy. [1]
Learn what your X rays show
Ask whether the break goes into the joint and whether the bone was set back in place. Find out if the bone is holding its position or needs another X ray soon. Your cast may be changed as the swelling goes down. [1]
If you’re offered surgery, ask what problem it would fix. Ask what movement you’ll be allowed afterward, too. Keep copies of your imaging and the operation report. [1]
Care for your hand while it heals
Keep the splint or cast dry the way you were told. Raise your hand when advised. If your team says it’s OK, move your fingers often. Tell them if a ring starts to feel tight. [1]
Ask when you can start moving your wrist and whether hand therapy would help. It’s common for the wrist to be stiff after being held still. Tell your team about stiff fingers or trouble making a fist. [1]
Numbness or pressure needs fast care
Get urgent care if your fingers turn pale or cold, swell a lot or go numb for the first time. Severe pain that keeps getting worse also needs to be checked right away. Be especially quick if moving your fingers makes it worse. A cast that is too tight or pressure on a nerve may need quick treatment. If these changes appear, don’t wait for your next regular appointment. [1]
Questions for your hand surgeon
- Does the break involve the joint surface, and is the alignment holding?
- Which finger and wrist movements are safe right now?
- When can I get back to gripping, driving and tasks at work?
Test your hand on a daily task
Pick one everyday task, such as getting dressed, and practice it using only the hand movements you’ve been cleared for. Let your therapist know what still gets in your way. [1]
Sources and further reading
This is general information from a hand surgeon’s point of view. Follow your own instructions for your cast, wound, movement and lifting. Get a prompt exam for new finger numbness or severe pain that keeps getting worse.
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