If you’ve recently had a wrist fracture and your cast has just been removed—congratulations! You’ve taken a big step toward recovery. But while the cast coming off may feel like the end of the journey, it’s actually the beginning of a crucial healing phase.
At Merivale Hand Clinic, we understand the challenges of this transition and are here to guide you every step of the way.
What to Expect After Cast Removal
Not all wrist fractures are the same, so follow your healthcare provider’s specific advice. However, many people experience these common symptoms:
- Dry, flaky skin
- Stiffness and weakness in the wrist and hand
- Swelling
- Aching during wrist movement
These are normal and will improve with time, appropriate care, and gentle activity.
Recovery Timeline
Full recovery may take 4 months to a year. Patience and consistency with your rehabilitation exercises are key.
Simple Steps to Aid Recovery
1. Skin Care
Gently wash with warm soapy water and apply moisturiser regularly to restore skin health.
2. Reducing Swelling
- Use your hand for light daily tasks
- Keep your hand elevated above heart level when possible
- Use gentle massage toward the heart to assist drainage
📄 For more, view our Swelling Management Guide (PDF)
3. Supportive Bandaging
Use a crepe bandage during the first week only. Remove it during exercises. If continued support is needed, consult your GP or physiotherapist.
4. Resuming Daily Activities
Start slow. You may struggle with lifting and gripping initially, but strength and motion will return gradually with use.
🏋️ Essential Exercise
Perform 3–4 times daily unless advised otherwise:
- Wrist Flexion and Extension – Bend wrist forward and back
- Side-to-Side Wrist Movement – Palm down, move wrist left and right
- Forearm Rotation – Turn palm up and down, keeping elbow still
- Thumb Lifts – With palm up, lift thumb away from palm
- Thumb-to-Finger Touches – Touch thumb to each fingertip
- Grip Strengthening – Squeeze a rolled facecloth, hold 5 seconds
- Lift and Hold – Lift the cloth (while gripping) off the table
- Fist and Stretch – Raise arm, alternate between a fist and wide finger stretch 20 times
📘 Visual Guide:
For photos and more detailed instructions on these exercises, view our Wrist Fracture Recovery Exercise Guide (PDF)
🔔 If pain or swelling worsens after exercise, reduce how hard or often you’re doing them. Persistent pain beyond 48 hours? Seek professional advice.
When to Seek Help
If after two weeks post–cast removal you’re still struggling with:
- Significant pain or swelling
- Limited function or movement
- No noticeable improvement
📞 Contact GP or contact hand therapy clinic, you do not need a referral
✋ Why Early Hand Therapy Matters
Starting therapy within days of cast removal helps you:
- Prevent or reverse stiffness and swelling
- Rebuild strength and avoid muscle wasting
- Regain proper movement patterns
- Return to everyday activities sooner and safer
Your hand therapist will tailor a program to your needs and monitor your progress.
📞 Need More Help?
Merivale Hand Clinic
📍 208 Papanui Road, Christchurch
📞 Tel: 03 355 9775
📧 Email: office@merivalehandclinic.co.nz
🌐 Website: www.merivalehandclinic.co.nz
