Do you need physical therapy after a fractured wrist?
Do you need physical therapy after a fractured wrist?
Distal radius fractures—as these injuries are called—are often serious and may require surgery, but regardless of what treatment is needed, physical therapy will be essential to ensure that you have a complete recovery.
How long is therapy for a broken wrist?
The amount of healing time varies, depending on the individual and the type of fracture, and can be anywhere from 4 to 10 weeks. If the fracture is severe, surgery will be required.
Can a fractured wrist heal in 4 weeks?
Hand and wrist fractures often heal in 4-6 weeks whereas a tibia fracture may take 20 weeks or more. Healing time for fractures are divided into three phases: 1. Inflammatory Phase: starts at the time of injury and lasts 1-2 weeks.
Should you wear a wrist for support after a broken wrist?
Patients may still be advised to wear a soft wrist splint at night for 1 to 2 weeks after the cast is removed to stabilize the wrist and help patients sleep better. Regardless of the approach used to treat a distal radius fracture, physical therapy is essential to the recovery process.
How long will my broken wrist be stiff?
After the cast is removed, it’s normal for the wrist to be stiff for 1 to 2 months. For some patients—such as those who are older, have osteoarthritis, or were victims of a high energy break such as from a car accident— this stiffness may last up to 2 years.
What happens if a broken wrist doesn’t heal properly?
After a bone is broken (fractured), the body will start the healing process. If the two ends of the broken bone are not lined up properly, the bone can heal with a deformity called a malunion. A malunion fracture occurs when a large space between the displaced ends of the bone have been filled in by new bone.
How long does it take to recover from a fractured wrist?
According to The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, wrist fractures can take anywhere from six to eight weeks to heal. However, long-term recovery can take up to a year. The most common type of wrist fracture is the Colles’ Fracture, according to WebMD.
What to do after a wrist fracture?
After the cast or splint is removed, you may occasionally use a wrist support or splint to support and protect the joint. Sometimes, the wrist may not look exactly the same as it did before the fracture, but with proper physical therapy, little function will be lost. Initially, you will need assistance with your daily routine.
How can physical therapy help a wrist fracture?
Physical therapy will be able to help a wrist fracture during several different stages, including when it is in a cast or sling and in the months following. In addition to helping improve the strength, motion, and function of the wrist, a physical therapist will also provide you with tips on how to prevent fractures down the line .
What are the treatments for a hairline fracture in the wrist?
Ice fomentation is useful for reducing swelling and alleviating pain.
