Full arm cast for a broken wrist: what to know

A distal radius fracture is a break near the wrist end of the forearm bone. A cast that extends higher up the arm can limit wrist and forearm rotation, helping protect alignment while the bone heals. The exact cast design depends on the fracture pattern, swelling, stability and whether the bone was realigned with a closed reduction or treated with fixation surgery.

A cast feels firm, but it should not create worsening pressure, severe rubbing or loss of circulation. Some swelling, wrist pain and hand swelling can occur after injury. Keep the fingers visible when possible so their colour, warmth and movement can be checked.

Keep the cast dry and never put objects inside it to scratch. Rest the arm raised above heart level during periods of swelling, move the free fingers regularly and follow the restrictions on lifting or using the arm. Check the skin at the edges and protect the cast from knocks. Do not trim, loosen or remove it yourself.

Attend planned reviews even if pain improves, because swelling can change the fit and an X-ray may be needed to confirm alignment. Once the cast is removed, stiffness and weakness are common; hand therapy can help restore movement and practical use. Follow the clinician’s timing before driving, work or sport.

Contact the fracture team urgently if fingers become blue, pale, cold, increasingly numb or difficult to move, or if swelling and pain keep rising despite elevation. Seek urgent care for a wet, cracked or displaced cast, foul odour, drainage, severe skin irritation, fever or pain that suddenly changes. A new injury to the casted arm also needs assessment.

Ask how high the cast should extend, how to check circulation, when it will be reviewed and what activities are allowed. Clarify whether you need a reduction, repeat imaging, surgery or hand therapy, and what symptoms mean the cast needs adjustment.