wrist in plaster, exercise advice

[lindak]

Hi
I broke my right wrist just over 2 weeks ago (Colles fracture). It was manipulated into place, and I shall be in plaster for another 4 weeks. There's a lot of advice about what exercises to do when the plaster is off, but I want to know what I should(n't) be doing now, especially as I'm a pianist. I've been moving my fingers, but I'm not sure how much it's OK to move my elbow, and in what direction, especially as I assume I should keep my sling on for as much of the time as possible.
I'd really appreciate some advice about this. Thankyou.

[Canuck Physio]

Originally Posted by lindak

Hi
I broke my right wrist just over 2 weeks ago (Colles fracture). It was manipulated into place, and I shall be in plaster for another 4 weeks. There's a lot of advice about what exercises to do when the plaster is off, but I want to know what I should(n't) be doing now, especially as I'm a pianist. I've been moving my fingers, but I'm not sure how much it's OK to move my elbow, and in what direction, especially as I assume I should keep my sling on for as much of the time as possible.
I'd really appreciate some advice about this. Thankyou.

Generally it is advisable to stretch the fingers, and to maintain as much Active movement as possible. However, passive movement by self is probably not advisable unless under direct supervision. As well, it is difficult to say without extra information from the consultant notes to guide treatment. You should also take into consideration the following:
- altered sensation (hot/cold)
- numbness
- Capillary refill (colour of the hand & fingers)
- pins & needles
- anaesthesia (lack of sensation)

You can watch out for that so as to be able to address it immediately if necessary.
As well without seeing the situation first hand, appropriate upper limb movements and exercises hsould be completed to avoid compensatory movements and muscle weakness.

The key is to remain in pain free available range of movement

Do you have access to follow up physio?
regards

[morwenna]

The sling is only to elevate the arm to alleviate swelling. By two weeks you can probably discard the sling (or just apply it to rest the arm intermittently for comfort).

You should be doing active range of movement exercises for the fingers, and also bending and straightening your elbow to the full range if possible. Twisting the wrist/forearm will not be possible in the cast, and this movement will be stiff when you get the cast off naturally.

You should also put your shoulder through a full range of movement a couple of times a day or that can seize up too!

There is nothing sadder than seeing somebody who's been in a cast for a fractured wrist and ends up with immobile fingers, elbow and/or shoulder just becasue they've worn a sling for 6 weeks!

Get rid of the sling and use the arm for light duties as much as possible, is my advice.