What to expect from fracture casting for a distal radius fracture

A distal radius fracture is a break near the wrist end of the forearm bone. The clinician may first use a temporary splint if swelling is expected, then fit a full cast when the wrist is ready. The cast holds the wrist and forearm in the prescribed position; it does not make the injury heal immediately.

During follow-up, the team may examine finger movement, sensation, swelling and circulation, and use imaging to check alignment. Stiffness in the wrist and fingers can occur after immobilisation, so recovery commonly includes gradual movement when the clinician allows it.

Keep the cast dry and avoid inserting objects inside it to scratch. Elevate the hand above heart level during the early period if swelling is present, and move the free fingers gently as instructed. Do not lift, push or return to sport until your care team has set safe limits.

Protect the cast from knocks and check the skin at its edges. Attend scheduled reviews even if discomfort is improving, because alignment and fit can change as swelling settles.

Contact your fracture team promptly for increasing tightness, worsening pain, new numbness or tingling, pale or blue fingers, inability to move the fingers, a wet or cracked cast, or swelling that does not improve with elevation. Seek urgent help for severe pain with marked finger colour or sensation changes.

Ask when the cast will be reviewed, which finger exercises are appropriate, how much you may use the hand, and what symptoms should trigger an earlier appointment.