Duration
With conservative therapy, the cast should be worn for 4-6 weeks. During this time it is important to move thumb and fingers so that the musculature is not completely broken down despite the immobilization, but also to promote the blood circulation. In addition, regular checks must be made to ensure that sensitivity as well as blood circulation and motor skills are maintained.
A faulty plaster cast can have a negative influence on one of these factors, which requires an immediate change and reapplication of the plaster. After removal of the plaster, mobility is usually possible again and sufficient stability is available. Stronger strain should only be started after 8-12 weeks; this also includes any sports activities.
After surgery, the healing process or aftercare varies slightly. As already mentioned, Kirschner wire treatment always involves wearing a plaster cast. The wires can then be removed after the bone has healed, i.e. after about 4-6 weeks.
However, a volar, angle-stable plate can remain in the body for life, as long as it does not cause any discomfort. The earliest time for removal should be after 12 months, as there is no sufficient and best possible stability that can be achieved before that. The post-treatment of a Herbert screw fitting does not differ much from the others: the plaster is removed after 4-6 weeks and the load should be increased slowly with supporting physiotherapy if necessary.
In summary, in addition to the various osteosynthesis variants, the healing process depends greatly on how cooperative the patient himself is.Especially in conservative therapy, it is essential to maintain immobilization and freedom from stress. Otherwise, the risk of renewed displacement, persistent instability, or faulty fusion of bones is very high. After surgery, it is important to discuss with the physician in charge about follow-up care and possible physiotherapeutic treatment to guarantee the best possible healing. Uncomplicated fractures of the wrist usually heal after 4-6 weeks; complicated fractures can take six months to heal. You can find a topic that might also be of interest to you under Spoke fracture duration
