What to Expect from Hand Therapy for a Distal Radius Fracture

The therapist checks the wrist, forearm, fingers, thumb, scar if present, swelling, sensation, movement, and grip. The starting exercises depend on how the fracture was managed and whether your clinician has cleared movement or loading. Stiffness after a period in a cast or splint is common, so progress is usually built in stages rather than through forceful stretching.

Your programme may include finger and thumb movements, wrist and forearm mobility, scar care, swelling strategies, and later strengthening. Use the hand for light tasks within the limits given to you, and increase demands only when advised. Keep follow-up appointments so healing and movement can be reviewed. See [Distal Radius Fracture](/conditions/distal-radius-fracture/) and [Hand Therapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/hand-therapy/) for related information.

Seek prompt medical advice for increasing pain or swelling, new numbness, fingers that become pale or blue, inability to move the fingers, fever, wound discharge, or a splint that feels dangerously tight. Tell the therapist if an exercise causes sharp pain or symptoms that do not settle as expected.

Ask when lifting is allowed, which movements are restricted, how to manage swelling, how often to practise, and what signs suggest the fracture or surgical site needs review.