How long does a broken wrist take to stop hurting?

A cast might be needed for six to eight weeks, and sometimes even longer depending on the severity of the break. More severe breaks may take as long as six months to fully heal. Discomfort or pain may continue for months or even years after your injury.

Can you bend your wrist if it’s fractured?

Some people can still move or use the hand or wrist even if there is a broken bone. Swelling or a bone out of place can make the wrist appear deformed. There is often pain right around the break and with finger movement. Sometimes the fingers tingle or feel numb at the tips.

What is the most painful wrist fracture?

Scaphoid fractures usually cause pain and swelling in the anatomic snuffbox and on the thumb side of the wrist. The pain may be severe when you move your thumb or wrist, or when you try to pinch or grasp something. Unless your wrist is deformed, it might not be obvious that your scaphoid bone is broken.

How should I sleep with a broken wrist?

Invest in a specialized pillow, like a body pillow, for elevation—keeping the broken bone above your heart prevents blood from pooling and causing swelling. Try sleeping on your back first while propped up on a few pillows. If that doesn’t work, slowly adjust yourself to a side position if possible.

Can I drive with a broken wrist?

At this time, there are no distinct rules regarding exact timeframes or circumstances for clearing patients to return to driving after a wrist fracture. Many people will be advised not to drive until the cast is removed and until you are able to use your hand comfortably for other daily functional activities.

Can wrist fracture heal without cast?

Technically speaking, the answer to the question “can broken bones heal without a cast?” is yes. Assuming conditions are just right, a broken bone can heal without a cast. However, (and very importantly) it doesn’t work in all cases. Likewise, a broken bone left to heal without a cast may heal improperly.

Can you drive with a broken wrist?

Should I wear a sling with a broken wrist?

Pain and swelling are normal symptoms when you break a bone. To help manage this we recommend keeping your hand raised above heart level. You may use a sling during the day but it is important to remove this regularly and move your elbow and shoulder to stop them from stiffening.

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.

How long for a fracture on the wrist to heal?

The most common type of broken wrist is called a scaphoid fracture, which can take between 6 and 12 weeks to recover. Common treatment for this type of break is a cast, and surgery is not usually necessary. Another common type is a Colles’ Fracture.

How can I strengthen my wrist after a fracture?

After a Colles’ fracture, the muscles around your wrist and forearm may be weak due to the injury and the period of time your wrist was immobilized. Your physical therapist may prescribe wrist strengthening exercises with a dumbbell to help improve your strength. Remember to start slow with a light weight.

How does long left wrist fracture take to heal?

Part 1 of 4: Seeking Treatment Download Article PRO Go to the doctor. A broken wrist requires medical attention so it can heal properly. Understand the treatment procedures. Most broken wrists are treated first with a splint, which is a rigid piece of plastic, fiberglass or metal attached to the wrist with bandages Wait 6 to 8 weeks. See a physical therapist.