Distal Radius Fracture (broken wrist)

On this page

• What has happened?
• What should I expect?
• What should I do?
• What should I not do?
• Will I be followed up?
• What if I have concerns/questions?

What has happened?

• You have broken a bone in your wrist
• This is a very common break, and nearly all heal without requiring an operation

What should I expect?

• You will have been placed in a cast by ED staff - this is to help keep the bone in the correct place during healing
• You will likely have a cast for approximately 6-8 weeks
• Your wrist will be swollen and sore, and you may develop bruising and swelling in the fingers - this is normal

What should I do?

• Take simple pain relief (e.g. paracetamol and ibuprofen) as needed
• Keep your fingers moving
• It may help with swelling and discomfort to elevate your wrist by resting it 1-2 pillows while sitting 

What should I not do?

• Try to reduce or stop smoking as this may delay bone healing
• Do not use your injured arm for heavy lifting
• You may be unable to drive while in your cast

Will I be followed up?

• Yes, a follow-up appointment in the Orthopaedic Clinic will be requested when you leave ED and you will be contacted regarding a date and time
• You will need multiple x-rays to monitor the healing

What if I have concerns/questions?

• If your injury is not settling or you are worried about how it is healing, please see your GP in the first instance  - take your ACC form/number with you
• Please seek medical attention if you experience the following
  • Increasing pain in your hand
  • Inability to move your fingers
  • Numbness or tingling in your hand
  • Your fingers go cold, or turn blue/white, in comparison to the other hand