Post-Surgery Concerns for Wrist Fracture Recovery: What to Expect - Orthopedics

More Info

---

After a wrist fracture surgery, it is natural to have concerns about recovery and the ability to return to daily activities. Your mother’s situation, having undergone surgery to insert a plate for her wrist fracture, requires careful consideration of her rehabilitation process and the activities she wishes to resume.


What to Expect Post-Surgery
1. Initial Recovery Phase: In the first few weeks post-surgery, the focus will be on healing and minimizing pain. During this time, it is crucial for your mother to follow her doctor's recommendations regarding immobilization and rest. Typically, a cast or splint is used to protect the wrist and allow the bones to heal properly.

2. Physical Therapy: After the initial healing phase, which usually lasts about 6-8 weeks, physical therapy often begins. This is essential for regaining strength, flexibility, and function in the wrist. The therapist will guide her through exercises tailored to her recovery stage, gradually increasing the intensity as healing progresses.

3. Returning to Daily Activities:
- After Six Months: By this time, many patients can return to light daily activities such as hanging laundry or cooking. However, it is important to listen to her body and avoid any movements that cause pain or discomfort.
- Lifting and Carrying: Activities that involve lifting heavy objects or putting significant strain on the wrist, such as carrying a child or heavy pots, should be approached with caution. While the bone may have healed sufficiently, the surrounding soft tissues (muscles, tendons, ligaments) may still be recovering. It is advisable to consult with her doctor or physical therapist before resuming these activities.

4. Risk of Re-Injury:
- Re-Fracture Concerns: The risk of re-fracturing the wrist after surgery depends on several factors, including the quality of the bone healing, her overall health, and the activities she engages in. Generally, if she follows rehabilitation guidelines and avoids high-risk activities too soon, the likelihood of re-injury decreases significantly.

- Strengthening Exercises: Engaging in strengthening exercises as recommended by her therapist can help fortify the wrist and reduce the risk of future fractures.

5. Returning to Work: If her job involves physical activity, it is crucial to assess her readiness to return. She may need to gradually ease back into her work routine, starting with lighter tasks and progressively taking on more demanding activities as her strength and confidence improve.


Additional Considerations
- Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-ups with her orthopedic surgeon are essential to monitor the healing process and make any necessary adjustments to her rehabilitation plan.

- Signs of Complications: Be vigilant for any signs of complications, such as increased pain, swelling, or changes in mobility. If any of these occur, she should contact her healthcare provider immediately.

- Long-Term Care: Even after six months, it is important for her to continue with exercises that promote wrist strength and flexibility to ensure long-term recovery and functionality.

In summary, while your mother can expect to gradually return to her daily activities six months post-surgery, it is essential to approach this process with caution and under the guidance of her healthcare team. By following a structured rehabilitation plan and listening to her body, she can minimize the risk of re-injury and achieve a successful recovery.