Wrist Fracture

[Karl]

Anyone had their wrist plated?

Whats the after care? After the op do they still put you in a cast or do you just get a wound dressing over the incision? Obviously no heavy work but would I still be able to drive a car?

[Haynesy]

I had my forearm plated 11 days ago. They said before the op I'd have it plastered, but all I've had on it is a padded bandage and that has been fine.

I was back at work, office based, 5 days after the op. The physio and aftercare advice in the hospital was to do as much as I could do, as long as it wasn't painful and no load bearing exercises until 5/6 weeks post opp. They showed me a few basic mobility exercises to do and said give a 2 weeks before you drive, but as long as you feel you've got enough movement and strength to drive then feel free to do so. And that was it.

I go to the fracture clinic, 2 weeks post op, where they'll take the stitches out, do an x-ray and I'm going to push for some physio as well. So I'm not going to drive until I've been for that appointment just to be on the safe side - however I feel strong enough to drive now. Just don't ask to juggle at the moment!

My collar bone was plated at the same time, and the aftercare instructions are the same.

Hope that helps!

[Karl]

Cheers Andrew, thanks for the feedback. I've got private medical cover through work, they've confirmed if there's a delay in surgery and consultant also does private then they will cover it. Also I can self authorise any physio I need.

[Kickaha]

Check with your insurance company about driving, over here sometimes you won't be covered if you're in a cast or don't have a medical clearance

I've had wrist fractures but without plating, 6 -8 weeks in plaster and the same again to get full strength and mobilitu

[Karl]

Had my Op on Friday. The wound was dressed but I've been put in a backslab for 2 weeks, and after review this might be extended to 4 weeks.