Cast care for a radial fracture

The choice depends on where the radius is broken, whether fragments are displaced, joint involvement, skin condition and circulation. A clinician may first realign the bone, use a temporary splint while swelling settles, or recommend fixation when a cast cannot maintain a suitable position.

A forearm or wrist cast limits rotation and bending that could disturb the fracture. Depending on the fracture level, it may extend below or above the elbow. The fingers are usually left free so their colour, warmth, sensation and movement can be monitored.

Swelling changes after injury, so the cast can become tight early or loose later. Follow-up imaging may be used to confirm that alignment remains acceptable as swelling falls and healing progresses.

Keep the cast dry, do not trim it, and never push objects inside to scratch. Elevate the arm as instructed during the swollen phase. Gently move the uncovered fingers and elbow if your clinician permits, and remove rings before swelling makes them difficult to take off.

Do not lift, drive or return to sport until the treating team confirms what is safe. Attend every fracture-clinic appointment, because comfort alone does not show whether the bone position has changed.

Seek urgent assessment for worsening pain despite the advised medicine and elevation, fingers that become blue, pale or cold, new numbness, increasing pins and needles, or inability to move the fingers. These can signal pressure on circulation or nerves.

Contact the treating service promptly if the cast cracks, becomes soaked, feels increasingly tight or loose, develops a foul smell, or rubs the skin. Emergency care is needed if bone is visible, bleeding continues, or the arm has been injured again.

Ask whether the fracture reaches the wrist joint, whether alignment is satisfactory, and when another examination or image is planned. Clarify which joints to exercise, whether a sling is needed, how to bathe safely, and when work, driving and sport may resume.

Also ask what recovery should feel like after cast removal. Stiffness and weakness may need gradual movement or physiotherapy rather than forceful stretching.