Post-Surgery Issues After Distal Radius Fracture: Recovery Insights

Postoperative Issues Following Distal Radius Surgery

Hello Dr.
Chen,
I suffered a distal radius fracture in my left wrist due to a fall on June 14.
I underwent surgery with a titanium alloy plate fixation and had a cast for six weeks.
I have been doing rehabilitation, but it has been nearly five months, and I still experience some swelling.
My hand is also weaker now, and I feel pain in my wrist joint when trying to support myself.
My fingers feel very tight and painful when making a fist, especially in the morning when I wake up; my finger joints are stiff and I cannot make a fist until I gradually move them.
I am unsure if my current condition is normal and how long it will take to fully recover.
Thank you, Dr.
Chen.

Wang Tai Tai, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/11/09

Dr. Chen Yongxue reply Orthopedics

Hello, distal radius fractures are very common, and the surgical methods are well-established.
Of course, the prognosis is significantly related to the degree of fracture comminution.
Generally speaking, if the fracture is not too comminuted, the cast can usually be removed after about ten days post-surgery, and rehabilitation can begin.
In approximately two months, you can expect to achieve a fairly good outcome.
I recommend that you consult your attending physician to inquire about the rehabilitation process.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2022/11/09

More Info

After a distal radius fracture, particularly one that has required surgical intervention with the placement of a titanium plate, it is not uncommon to experience a range of post-surgery issues during the recovery process. Your symptoms of swelling, pain, stiffness, and weakness in the wrist and fingers are frequently reported by patients in similar situations.
Firstly, the swelling you are experiencing can be attributed to several factors, including the healing process itself, inflammation, and possibly the immobilization period during which the wrist was in a cast. Swelling can persist for several months post-surgery, especially if the wrist is used frequently or if there is any overexertion during rehabilitation. It is essential to manage swelling through elevation, ice application, and gentle range-of-motion exercises as advised by your physical therapist.

The weakness in your hand is also a common occurrence following a distal radius fracture. After a prolonged period of immobilization, the muscles around the wrist and hand can weaken due to disuse. Rehabilitation exercises focusing on strengthening the wrist and hand muscles are crucial. These exercises should be introduced gradually and under the supervision of a qualified physical therapist to ensure that they are appropriate for your stage of recovery.

Pain during wrist movement, especially when attempting to support weight or perform gripping actions, is not unusual. This discomfort can stem from several sources, including irritation of the surrounding soft tissues, joint stiffness, or even the surgical hardware itself. It is vital to communicate this pain to your healthcare provider, as they may need to assess whether it is a normal part of the healing process or if further intervention is required.

The stiffness you describe, particularly in the morning, is often referred to as "morning stiffness" and can be a result of inactivity during the night. It is essential to incorporate a routine of gentle stretching and mobility exercises into your daily regimen to help alleviate this stiffness. Gradually increasing the range of motion in your fingers and wrist can significantly improve your overall function and comfort.

Regarding your question about how long it will take to recover fully, recovery timelines can vary significantly from person to person. Generally, after a distal radius fracture, patients can expect to see significant improvement within three to six months. However, complete recovery, including regaining full strength and range of motion, may take up to a year or longer, depending on various factors such as age, overall health, and adherence to rehabilitation protocols.

In summary, while your current symptoms may feel concerning, they are not uncommon following a distal radius fracture and subsequent surgery. It is crucial to continue your rehabilitation efforts, communicate openly with your healthcare team about your symptoms, and be patient with your recovery process. If you have not already, consider discussing your concerns with your orthopedic surgeon or physical therapist, as they can provide tailored advice and possibly adjust your rehabilitation program to better suit your needs.

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