Broken wrist plaster: care, comfort and warning signs

The cast limits wrist movement so the fractured bone can remain in the position chosen by the treating team. Early swelling may change how the cast feels, so clinicians sometimes split, reinforce or replace it after reassessing the wrist. Follow-up imaging may be used to check alignment even when pain is settling.

A snug feeling can occur, but pressure should not cause worsening pain, numbness or colour change. The fingers normally remain uncovered so their warmth, movement and sensation can be monitored.

Keep the plaster dry and avoid pushing objects, creams or powders underneath it. Raise the hand above heart level when swelling is troublesome, and gently move the exposed fingers as instructed. Do not trim, reshape or remove the cast yourself.

Attend scheduled fracture reviews and follow the limits given for lifting, driving and work. If an edge rubs the skin, contact the cast service for adjustment rather than padding deep inside the plaster.

Seek urgent assessment if pain becomes severe or keeps increasing despite elevation and prescribed pain relief; the fingers become blue, pale, cold, very swollen or difficult to move; or numbness and tingling persist. These changes may signal pressure on circulation or nerves.

Arrange prompt advice if the cast becomes wet, cracked, loose, foul-smelling, stained by discharge or painfully tight. Fever, worsening skin pain or a new injury to the cast also warrants clinical review.

Ask whether the bone position remains satisfactory, when the cast may be changed or removed, which finger and elbow movements are suitable now, and when hand therapy may begin. Clarify whom to contact if swelling or cast damage develops outside clinic hours.