Is it normal for your wrist to hurt after cast removal?
Is it normal for your wrist to hurt after cast removal?
It is normal for your wrist to feel vulnerable once out of plaster because it hasn’t been moved for a long time. It is important that swelling, pain, strength and stiffness are addressed following the removal of the plaster. It is normal to have some pain once your cast comes off.
How long will my wrist hurt after cast removal?
The cast also reduces pain. It usually takes four to six weeks for new bone to form to heal your fracture. When the cast is removed most people find that their wrist is stiff, weak and uncomfortable to start with. It may also be prone to swelling and the skin dry or flaky, this is quite normal.
Should I wear a wrist brace after cast removal?
You should have been given a removable splint when your cast was removed. Continue to wear this at night and for protection in busy environments, such as on public transport. It is important to start wrist exercises as soon as the cast is removed.
How do I get my wrist strength back after a cast?
Wrist extensor stretch
- Extend the arm with the affected wrist in front of you and point your fingers toward the floor.
- With your other hand, gently bend your wrist farther until you feel a mild to moderate stretch in your forearm.
- Hold the stretch for at least 15 to 30 seconds.
- Repeat 2 to 4 times.
What causes stiffness after cast removal?
There are two reasons why stiffness seems to last a long time after casting a joint for a fracture. First there’s the joint itself. After injury, the repair processes can be damaged and slow to return to normal. At the same time, animal studies have shown us that muscles shorten up when joints are immobilized.
What to expect after removing a cast?
What to expect
- Immediately after cast removal. Dizziness and/or nausea can happen after cast removal.
- Joint stiffness. It is not unusual for joints to be a bit stiff immediately after plaster removal.
- Swelling.
- Physiotherapy.
- Don’t scratch.
- Moisturise often.
- Keep it clean.
What to do after cast comes off wrist?
After your cast comes off, soak your arm in soap and water to remove dry skin. Place your arm in warm water for about 5-10 minutes. The dry skin should then easily rub off with a towel. This can then be followed by using a moisturizing lotion to help soften the skin.
Why do my fingers hurt after wrist fracture?
In parallel to the swelling, patients tend to suffer from tingling in the fingers, caused by immobilizations in forced positions, not physiological, which compress the middle nerve provoking the set of symptoms to which we alluded: pain, swelling, tingling, etc.
How long does the stiffness last after cast removal?
After having a cast removed, it is normal to experience pain, stiffness and decreased range of motion in the area(s) that were immobilized. Symptoms can last up to twice the amount of immobilization time. For Example, if the patient was in a cast for 3-4 weeks, symptoms may last up to 6-8 weeks.
Why are fingers stiff after cast removal?
Although they are left free in many casts the movement pattern changes. We normally initiate bending into a fist at the tips of our fingers. However after being casted many people change this pattern due to swelling, pain, or stiffness, they initiate the motion in the large joints at the base of the fingers.
How long will my fingers be stiff after a broken wrist?
A bad injury or major surgery will make your hand stiff. It usually takes about 6 months to really loosen up scar tissue.
Why are my fingers stiff after cast removal?
After the cast has been removed, your limb will still require some time to complete the healing process and return to normal function. It is not unusual for joints to feel stiff and swollen immediately after plaster removal. Fortunately, physical or occupational therapy can help you regain muscle strength!