What can I expect after the plaster is removed?
Pain, stiffness, swelling, dry skin and weakness are frequent symptoms experienced after your plaster is removed.
Pain can be eased with painkillers, you can get advice from your pharmacist, GP or consultant regarding this. The pain that you experience once the plaster is removed may last for at least 6 weeks initially, but improvements are made for up to 2 years after your fracture.
Ice or heat may also help reduce your pain. Heat can be applied simply in a sink/bath of warm water, a hot water bottle (not boiling water) or a wheat pack wrapped in a towel. Ice may be applied by placing a bag of frozen peas in a damp towel. Either can be applied for 15-20 minutes up to 4 times a day.
You may notice that you have swelling once the plaster is removed. Elevating the arm above your heart level can help reduce swelling.
It is normal for you to experience stiffness after your plaster is removed, again this can persist for several weeks/months. Following the appropriate exercise programme from the physiotherapist can ease this.
You may notice that you feel weak after your plaster is removed, with appropriate exercises and general use of your hand this will improve with time. You may also feel vulnerable without your plaster. Sometimes a wrist splint can help support the wrist and also remind people that you have had an injury. You can start to gradually increase activity from 6 weeks after your fracture unless you have been advised otherwise. Please avoid heavy lifting or contact sports for 3 months following your fracture.
Often people find that their skin is dry and scaly once the plaster is removed. By massaging a simple moisturiser or baby oil frequently to the skin will help it improve.
You may notice a lump or bump at your wrist. This is part of the healing process as extra bone is laid down to heal the fracture. With time this is often re-absorbed although it may always be evident.
It is important to remember that all these things are normal after your plaster has been removed.
It is also important to remember that you have had a fracture and that your arm will not return to normal, straight after the plaster is removed.
Exercises
The following exercises may help to restore the function to your hand, wrist and fingers. It is important that you perform the exercises regularly to achieve this. Guidance will be provided by your clinician. Also try to keep your elbow and shoulder moving.
The Following exercises should be repeated 3 times 3-6 times daily as pain allows.
