How long does fracture fixation surgery take to work for a distal radius fracture?

A plate, screws, or other fixation helps hold the broken end of the radius in position. It does not make the wrist ready for normal gripping immediately. Pain and swelling may settle before wrist motion and grip strength return. Examination and imaging guide when a splint can change, when wrist movement can progress, and when loading is safe.

Keep the hand elevated when swollen, protect the dressing and incision, and use the splint as directed. Move the fingers, elbow, and shoulder if instructed, but avoid gripping, lifting, pushing, or using the hand to rise from a chair until cleared. Follow the hand-therapy plan rather than testing strength independently, and attend reviews.

Seek prompt advice for increasing wound redness, drainage, fever, severe pressure from the splint, or pain that is worsening. Urgent assessment is needed for fingers that become blue, cold, numb, very swollen, or difficult to move, or for sudden pain after a fall.

Ask when the splint can change, which finger and wrist exercises are safe, when gripping and lifting may begin, how healing will be checked, and when work, driving, or sport can be reconsidered.