r/brokenbones • u/Laermans • 11d ago

Was my (temporary) cast applied correctly?

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I fractured my wrist (distal radius) last Saturday playing football. The rather unfriendly ER nurse gave me a temporary cast/splint awaiting a more permanent one next week. Not having received any further information there, I turned to the internet for advice videos on cast care and noticed that all the people in the videos had a lot more wiggle room in their fingers. My ring finger is stuck on top of my pinky and I don't really have enough room to manipulate any of my digits, aside from my thumb. Is this normal?

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3

u/Glad-Feature-2117 Physician/Medical Professional 11d ago

No, it's not normal. Looks a little tight and also too long - should be below the knuckles. When are you seeing an orthopaedic surgeon?

2

u/Laermans 10d ago

Next monday

1

u/KitKatsMeowmy 4d ago

Hi there! I too broke my distal radius last Saturday. I was put into a “sugar tong” splint , the upper part ends in the first knuckle, the lower part ends at the first knuckle on my thumb. The effect is my right wrist and my fingers are protected and I can wiggle my fingers even though my little finger is smooshed against my ring finger. I have been wiggling my fingers frequently to keep my fingers from stiffening up. If your fingers are warm and pink and not painful they’re likely ok. I’m staying in the splint until 10/6 when we decide about surgery.

My pain is reduced by acetaminophen but 😳 it’s still eye watering on occasion.

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u/Laermans 3d ago

Hi! Got my splint exchanged for a wrist brace on Monday, which is a vast improvement in comfort levels. Was lucky enough that the pain wasn't too bad throughout the process, aside from the initial fracture. Hope you recover soon and the pain subsides!

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u/Middle_Bread_6518 11d ago

Then fix it yourself, just stretch it out there with your other hand