Treatment will vary depending on multiple factors – how the fracture occurred, characteristics of the fracture and also patient factors.
Fractures often need to be immobilised while the bones heal to ensure they are correctly aligned. You may need to wear a cast or splint on your hand or wrist for a time to relieve pain and keep the bones in the correct alignment. The time in cast depends on the type of fracture – some fractures don’t need any immobilisation.
The speed at which the bone heals will be affected by a number of different factors including your age and general state of health. You may need to take pain relieving medication and/or anti-inflammatories to manage the pain, particularly in the early stages.
Hand Therapy is frequently recommended to support rehabilitation, with exercises to improve strength and flexibility in the affected area once the bones have healed.
Certain fracture types or open fractures may require surgery. Bones are held in place with metal plates, pins or screws while they heal. If there is a gap in the bone when it has been realigned, you may need a bone graft to help the bones to heal.
Severe fractures that go into the joint can lead to arthritis of the joint and you may need additional treatment or surgery at a later date.