Thank you for posting this video. I broke my wrist 3weeks ago and needed the surgery and plate to repair my injury. This really helps in forming my expectations going forward. ( boy, this injury is miserable☹️) wishing everyone here going through it a speedy recovery. Grateful for everyone’s comments they really help.
I’m 9weeks post surgery. My hand has some mobility now. Not a lot but I can touch my thumb to each finger tip. It hurts if I move it wrong( meaning unintentionally -watch your reflexes ) I keep my wrist brace on in public and for sleep because it feels safer. Take this Drs advice seriously when he talks about stiff fingers....mine are so tight it’s crazy but I force a closed fist pretty much all day long....it really helps. I find when I wake up in the morning it’s like starting over again.. bummer. I can’t close my fist on my own (yet ) i have to force it. When I try on my own power to close my fist I get a sickening sensation or tugging pain over the area where the plate is and it stops me immediately. I keep trying just very slow. Does anybody else have the burning nerve pain? I am so sensitive to touch at the base of my thumb area. If my sleeve touches it I’m so miserable. I wear an elastic wrap on my hand and then my brace for protection from the brace contacting my skin.☹️ well it’s teaching me patience and while the world is in lockdown I can work on my mobility. I wish you all good luck.
Bobbie Quilty Kahn wow! Yes keep making a fist as much as possible train your fingers how to regain that motion. For some reason I haven’t had any issues with mobility in my fingers, I got surgery on 2/29 after a distal radius and distal ulna fracture in a car wreck and wore a splint for 12 days and I’m on my 2nd week of occupational therapy now. I do have stiffness and mobility problems but my hands aren’t giving me any issues, it’s when I turn my arm from palm down to palm up, my bones pop and it’s a little painful. Now I’m wearing an ulnar strap and a wrist brace at night. I am going to see my doctor soon about the popping because I cannot live like this 😓 good luck to everyone
I need to hear a Doc like him all the discomfort I feel after the surgery and feel the doc same me home with little bit of med . I'm in my own thinking what kind of doc do that 🤔
I don’t understand how to use the glove. Surgeon said to take it when I shower. I’m 70 years old and had a plate and screws but I don’t understand what to do as far as taking the glove on or off?
@@precisionbrown6829 pop it on to protect cast if you have one water wont get through then gently take off after if it was like mine it was great. Good luck.
Love to watch this guy. I too had a distal radius wrist fracture and surgery. I am out of my cast after a very short time! 3 weeks and I am 72. I do wear my cast outside my home around lots of people but gif the most part I am out of it. I do my exercises religiously everyday! They want me doing them 3-5 times a day! I do wake up stiff some mornings so I get busy with exercises right away!
Thank you so much! I’m 62 and broke my wrist when I fell on ice. First broken bone and I want to make sure I heal properly. Your information is so valuable. ❤
I'm 11/12 weeks into this and had/have the stiff fingers. Been a massive struggle - Takes ages to get them bent, then next morning they're back - I know it's a long had struggle but keep the frustration at bay 👍 2 plates fitted. This Doc's advice is gold! Who'd have thought this injury was so disabling. Keep your chin up Suzi.
Incredibly uplifting and helpful video. It's been 13 hours since my surgery and I've already made a somewhat fist since watching this video. Thank you so much.
This was extremely informative. I am recovering from a radius and ulna fracture in my left forarm. Its been 3 weeks since my surgery. My doctor did not provide as much information as you did in this video. I really appreciate it.
I fell off a toilet. Well it was a toilet trailer, reached for the handrail, but it was too far away. Threw my hand out in front of me to keep from landing on my head. Broke ulna and radius distal side. Also messed up my shoulder. A day before my 61st birthday.
I REALLY wish my surgeon had spent these 8 minutes with me!! Just had the plate and screws put in last week. Will get cast in 3 days. I think I need the cast for 8 weeks but al least I know what to expect!! Thank you for this video!!!
@@precisionbrown6829 hang tough!! There was less pain than I expected after the surgery! Do your PT like it was your job and you will recover quickly! It’s been well over a year now and it feels great!!
He/She probably would have loved to but the hospitals don't give the doctors that kind of time. Blame the accounts. Not the guy who fixes people all day.
I’m really sad that I can’t strength train right now, but knowing how to strength train using my hands in certain angles & motions (grips) helps me to rehab at home - using really light dumbbells and resistance bands. It totally sucks to fracture your dominant wrist at 40. Grateful for videos like this.
and as much at 29. non- dominant elbow hairline fracture by falling hand-outstretched. How soon can I be lifting again any thoughts? The muscle loss is killing me
35 year old Mama here! Fractured my distal radius in a rollerblading accident. This video was very informative, Thank You! I got excited when you addressed the 35 year old!!!
My 70 yro dad did this today, surgery tomorrow. It was heartbreaking to watch 6 nurses put it back in place, pain relief was morphine and a vape thing but I could feel his pain. Wish us luck, good luck everyone.
This is a really great video from a guy who knows his stuff, and can communicate it, to those of us who don't. Thanks for posting this no nonsense and matter-of-fact lesson. I appreciate your efforts!
Dr. Richards, THANK YOU for taking time to create and share this video. i fell ice skating and have Colles fracture on both wrists was cast yesterday It is enormously helpful to log on and hear you explain whats going on and what to expect. Most of all it is greatly encouraging to know that in time normal use will return. Thanks again.
Linda J. Rice I broke my left wrist from a fall skating as well. I’m so sorry, you have both broken, it was very challenging with just one hand. I’m 4 months out, and still have challenging tasks, I Aldo tore ligaments. Be patient, you have to really work with your PT.
I slipped on the ice in February of 2023 and came down really hard on my right fist. Went to the ED and was immediately diagnosed with a intra radial fracture that was jamming into the joint of my wrist. the surgery was not recommended it was imperative. three days later after visiting the Orthopedics I was in the OR and the plate was surgically installed. like the doctor said here, an incision my forearm. I went back for my 10-day appointment, unfortunately in a tremendous amount of pain and discomfort. After x-rays were taken it showed that the plate had failed and that the bone had gone back to its original broken location, if I remember correctly, I think it was 48 degrees off. Another surgery was done a few days after that. My surgeon described it like wearing pants with a belt and suspenders. He has faith that this will keep it inline, and we've got hope that it wasn't going to go offline again. It's a 7 inch Rod that is screwed into some bones in my hand as well as my arm. It's now day 15 since the second surgery with the suspender and belt surgery with a rod in my arm and my hand and everyday I experience the most severe amount of pain. It says if my arm and my hand and fingers are on fire or there's a vice grip around parts of my hand and arm it's excruciating. I am due to have the rod taken out after my appointment tomorrow. Assuming the bone is still healing and place. I will say this anybody who has experienced this type of fracture I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy I have had 20 Orthopedic surgeries from my athletic career, and this by far has been the most painful, by far the most painful event that I've undergone. I just hope that it stays in place. And because I cannot type I'm using talk to text so it's this is not grammatically sound I do apologize I cannot use my right hand for much. Best wishes for anybody out there with this specific fracture, and thank you Doc for your video.
Sorry for what you being through , I think the same way , don't wish nobody this torture I'm living now ! I Fracture my wrist left hand . Surgery 3 weeks ago after cast for 10 days . Now I'm home dealing with the frustrated 😠 pain 😢 God help us 🙏 for a speedy recovery 😒❤️
Praying 1 year later you are doing much better and finding peace through the pain. I’m 7 weeks post surgery of my distal radius after a bike fall 7 ft up coming down a ramp. My left hand arches forward still and I’m very active on my PT trying to self correct it. The doctor I saw before I saw my surgeon told me my hand was f**ked and he didn’t know how it would heal. I am determined to prove him wrong and regain full mobility. To all of you, I hope you choose strength in your body and your soul. You deserve to overcome this!
I am furious that no one told me to constantly make a fist!!! As a result I am going to therapy because I can't use my fingers. I wish I had watched you earlier. I am a very active 73-year-old and am miserable at five weeks after my fracture. Watching you has given me hope, though.
Debbie I hope you are doing better today! I share the same frustration - I was barely told anything before and after my surgery. I'm almost 2 weeks out and no-one mentioned anything about a fist or moving fingers. I wasn't informed about the surgery risks either (though I assumed some of it).
@@princess-pumpkin In a few days it will be seven months since my break. I am almost back to normal as far as what I can do. I will never have full range of motion, but I couldn't do a push-up before either! Five months ago I never thought I would advance to this point. When I came out of the brace I couldn't even pick up a piece pf paper, and now I can carry heavy groceries Pay attention to the videos and good luck with your recovery!
Yes! I even told my sister not to get surgery she had a cast broke wrist wasn't even in cast 3wks they did surgery I watched several videos that said u are still suppose to do exercises in a cast move fingers daily
Thank you for taking time to explain these things. I had a wrist fracture 9 days ago. I have learned so much from your video. I was just rolled out to my car with a pleasant goodbye. I didn't even know what procedure I had until I looked up my online chart. Thank you again.
Your video was informative and filled with details as to what to expect after Distal Radius surgery. My wife is the 61y/o patient that underwent ORIF surgery on Left Wrist to insert a Distal Radius Plate. We are thus far completely satisfied with the results of the surgery, but your video has provided much information that we lacked. It's just about 6 weeks since surgery and the cast was removed about 2 weeks ago. She is flexing all 5 fingers as much as she can and she exhibits pain, but after watching your video it encourages her to remain active with her hand exercises and movement. Your video has provided data that we didn't know regarding what to expect after the surgical procedure. Thank you!
This is really awesome, cause my surgeon didn't tell me all these after radius fracture. I was kind of feared because I hardly did my supination after 1 week of surgery but understood in here that the therapies need to be commenced after 6 weeks minimum. Thank you very much!
I wish my dochad told me that.All he said to do was move the fingers. Also cast was too high to bend fingers very far, which I did not realize. Please do your exercises as soon s possible.Would have really helped me.
I'm 67 and glad I had the ORIF for distal radius fracture, comminuted. 9 months post now with no pain and most function restored. Do see an OT ASAP. The rest is up to you.
After a complete radial fracture involving the joint, I had surgery in August. During my (one) visit with the doctor before surgery, I was told that I could do yoga right away. I’ve been depressed for the past 4 months, trying my hardest to do yoga, but eventually giving up from pain and immobility. I had a longer than average recovery due to extensive ulnar pain (from sprain) and was unable to move my wrist and fingers for 2 months. Hearing that 2 months is normal before wanting to exercise and 9-12 is normal for push ups brought tears to my eyes. I thought I was way behind schedule and was really hard on myself. Thank you for making this video and for all the info on recovery, including the importance of moving fingers. Unfortunately my doctor was not as involved in patient care as you are. How wonderful to have specialists like you.
I can totally relate to what you're saying I broke mine back in August & still struggling on the road to recovery after having a plate put in. I was not prepared & was never told how tough recovery was going to be without ballet sending hugs 🤗
I sure appreciate this video. A month ago I fell and broke my wrist in two places. Now that I’m calm I know what my doctor was saying. Thank you with all my ♥️
Wow…very good info! I am 62 and I guess my bones are still very strong because my distal radius fractured wrist was not severe at all. I just have a removable brace. I climbed on a chair to put something into the closet and fell when getting down from the chair landing on my palm. I heard the crack and saw stars so I knew something was wrong. No swelling and just a small bruise on my inner wrist. I am so glad you mentioned that exercise at the end of the video…I was not told to do any exercises. It’s been a week since my fracture so I will start doing that today. But I have been using my hand as much as possible because I am not the type to just sit around. Thank you so much for this video 👍😀
@@ptulip I was doing great until my tendon snapped. Probably happened from being too aggressive with physical therapy. My dr said he could operate to repair the tendon but then I would of had to be in a cast for 8 weeks with no hand movement at all for the 8 weeks. So I didn’t have it repaired. I have 90% movement of my thumb, which is fine…I am already used to it. But my wrist is much better. Only slight pain during certain movements.
@@Lilliancooks I am so sorry. I just had surgery Friday. Trying to get all the info I can on recovery and such. Every day is so different. I need a support chat group. Do they have those? haha
@@ptulip I know how you feel…it’s great to be able to chat with others in the same situation. Just be very careful with OT. I think if they wouldn’t have pushed me to do so much movement I would not have snapped the tendon.
Going into surgery tomorrow morning, very worried so binging surgery vids to calm myzelf. Honestly it seems quite an easy surgery so thnk you for posting this
Thank u so much. You gave me lots of good info. I'm 68 and very active and hoping after my surgery for distal radial fx will be able to do yoga again. I wish my surgeon could have explained all that u did to me.
Looky here, all the info I needed and didn't get from my surgeon. And I specifically wanted to know about the yoga and push-ups (and chin-ups). Thank you for your eloquent explanation.
Yeah Anita I love Yoga and is very discouraging that I won't be able to go through all the flows , and sequences for a while , oh well good luck to you!
Anita Maes I also have left hand distal radius fracture and 4 months put still not able to type or put any weight for a yoga pose. Very frustrating but this video definitely gives me hope. My ortho doc and hand surgeon never told me what to expect.
@@cathytussing4718 I broke my wrist 5 days ago. I have practiced yoga daily for several years. How are you doing now? Looking for feedback on length of time to return to all basic yoga poses.
@@christinekincaiddewey4791 not gonna lie, it’s was a struggle. But, I also found out I had torn ligaments. It took about 8 or 9 months before I had the pronation to lay the hand flat to do yoga or a push up. To this day, I can’t type, without my elbow in the air, and it’s been 3 years now.So, do the therapy as long as your insurance will allow! Good luck to you.
I had wrist surgery plate and screws. I’ve done beautifully. I’m six weeks out and my cast is off. No problems, minimal pain actually just a little stiffness. Please do your exercises. It helps so much. Three times a day I never miss. Good lunch
It has been 3 months for me and I have a ton of stiffness and lots of trouble rotating my hand and fist it seems to be getting harder even though I am doing a lot of therapy.
@@banjobenson9348 I don’t know what exercises you are doing. I followed Bob and Brad wrist exercises. I also did some of them while I was in my cast per my Drs. Instructions. I would google exercises for the specific problems you are having. Sorry you are having difficulty. I’m 8 months out of surgery with no problems. It’s like it never happened. Mine was a severe double break and I gave soft bones. Good luck.
Thank you for your sharing. I had a total broken ulna and distal radius in my right arm for 6 weeks after surgery done next day. I am in pain and recovering through exercises and massage from these similar communities that I am learning.
Very informative! I fractured my wrist while in the garden. I am over 55 and the pain was horrific! I find out tomorrow as to whether or not surgery is to be done. Your video put my mind at ease as to what to expect. Thank you.
Thank you for explaining this to me. I’m 68 y/o female who was in my sister backyard when I saw 2 dogs cross the street and come in the front yard, then I didn’t see them anymore until I got up to leave, and both dogs was within arms length barking and growling at me. I started backing away from the dogs and after taking a few steps backwards, I fell on the ground. The dogs were still coming towards me, a neighbor ran into his house and came back out with a golf club waving it at the dogs. I tried getting up, but I couldn’t because my right wrist was hurting, eventually I got up, the dogs were still coming after the man with the club and me also. They followed us all the way to his back porch. After a while they left. I immediately noticed my wrist was swollen and hurting. After the neighbor drive me home I put an ice pack on my wrist (7Pm) and went to the ER around 5:45 that Tuesday morning and was told that I had cracked my wrist and that surgery was not needed. Tomorrow is Friday and I have an 8:30 appointment with the orthopedic doctor. ER Dr. put a split from the last two joints of my finger all the way above my elbow. I have been keeping it elevated on pillows in bed and in a sling out of bed. I’m able to wiggle and make a fist and I have been moving my fingers and making a fist often even though it hurts some. I’ll know more tomorrow and thank you for your educational video. New subscriber ✝️🙏🏾✝️
Thank you so much, i’m 18 and broke and dislocated my arm from falling off my off my bike a week ago and had surgery done two days ago with these plates and screws, and the information provided was very helpful and reassuring because I enjoy assembling builds together and playing video games. As of right now i can hold my arm without a sling and have it hold by itself, and i’ve been moving my fingers in my palm constantly and it did feel a little bad at first but it got easier the more i did it. Good luck to everyone else in their surgery and recovery and hopes to never breaking a bone again 😌😌
Hi it's 2 months since you posted this. How are you? Did you start training yet? Hope everything is going well! I got a surgery 1 week ago and I am worried about the time line
@@marcnd3482 don’t worry I broke my 2 hands and my shoulder they put the same metal plate on my wrist my 2 week the pain is going to almost go away it will still hurt but not to bad there not going to put you in a cast it’s just going to be a thing that protects your wrist but you can take it off don’t be scared to move your wrist it’s going to help if you move it hope I help 👍🏼
Thank you so, so much for this video, Just broke my hand a few weeks ago, very complex, operation 17 days ago and nobody told me about the last thing you said in your video about bending my fingers all the time. I really hope my fingers will be better now. They hurt so much whwn I am bending them. So, thanks from Norway! Wish you all the best. Vigdis.
I cracked my left radius , distal , I declined the cast /plaster at the hospital. No deformities, limited ROM , 2/10. I just bought a brace/splint for a lot cheaper. Thank you for sharing this video! It does help , very informative too!
My surgeon told me the same thing about bending the fingers to the palm and holding to work on the stiffness. I like this surgeon's manner and explanation of things used in the plate screw procedure.
Thanks doc I just had ORIF of distal radius 6 weeks post op now. I’m a clinical coder so I didn’t ask my Internist or Ortho for all the details, got my facility bill it was 3 or more fragments. Had removable cast (fast form). Have started PT but, feel a bit better about my status have watched. Don’t think my surgeon will be disappointed. 😀
@@brodysmith8749 Hi mate, I was in a cast for 2 weeks as the metal plate provides the wrist the support it needs. After, you will be given a wrist strap to wear which you can take off. You will need to rest and not apply any pressure for at least 10 weeks. Physiotherapy is very key to recovery as your wrist will become extremely stiff. Don't be disheartened by the lack of mobility as the more physio you do the better you wrist will get. I watched several TH-cam videos that helped with my physio. After 3 months I was able to go back to the gym and do light weights. I am currently on week 18 and feel much better! Feel free to ask me any other questions as I know exactly what you are going through!
@Diana Flores Best to let it heal and not apply any pressure on it for 10 weeks. I found that doing consistent physiotherapy everyday helped me with my recovery. After you get the cast off you will have minimal mobility in the wrist. I watched many youtube videos on different physio exercises I could do for my wrist
Thank you so much that was very helpful. I broke my wrist a week ago and had surgery five days ago. I have been exercising my fingers ever since the nerve block wore off. So I’m on the road to recovery…!!
Great info about moving the fingers. Mine are stiff and can’t start therapy till next month- insurance! So glad I watched this- and YES IT HURTS but I’ll do it anyway.
Thank you so much. For sharing with us I've been up against that decision to get a plate or not I'm not getting the right care from the doctors up here in Pennsylvania and so I'm left to try to decide on my own you really shared information with me that helps me to feel a little more comfortable with my choices it's people like you that make us trust doctors once again
This was very informative. Im an optometrist technician and got a distal radius fracture two weeks ago. Currently working at front desk splinted so lots of finger movement. Get a cast tomorrow hopefully and so far not in the clear to not get surgery. Wish me luck 🙏🏻
I just had a distial radius fracture that was Gonna take 6-8 weeks in a cast and need re alignment surgery it went amazing and I’m getting my cast off 3 weeks in surgery is something not be scared of as it’s only gonna help you in the long run 😁
I had a complete distal end radius fracture, on an 1.75" angle which the doc just placed a fiberglass split where I had to make a fist, and the cast went down 1" above my elbow, wrapping around the sides of my arm with an ace bandage for 2 weeks till the swollen hand went down then a soft cast for 8 weeks. Turned out great, but still working on exercises to lose it up. :)
Thank you for making this video. I broke mine last week. A cast was fitted but the bone is not in the correct position. i am now waiting for surgery to fit the plate.
I had an intraarticular fracture of the distal radius. I wish my doctor had been able to explain my injury like Dr. Richards. I was initially told by a Harvard Trained orthopedist that I didn’t need surgery. Good thing I listened to Dr. Richards, and went to a hand surgeon who correctly diagnosed me with a displaced Barton fracture. I had a volar plating and am now, at 3 weeks typing this comment. It seems to me that after volar plating, early motion is critical. For one thing you are not dependent for an extra 4-6 weeks. It’s easier to get the motion early, than work for weeks after you’ve been immobilized for 6 weeks Thank you Dr. Richards for the explanation and caring in posting this video. Wish I’d had you as my surgeon.
Hey i have an intra articular fracture too. Did you wait to have surgery in yours? Was there an osteoarthritis risks or development? Im on week if with a cast
I just had this surgery done three days ago. This has been the most comprehensive informative video I have seen since then.Thank you so much! You answered so many of the questions that I am having! Everything you stated was exactly like my case, even down to my age. My only question is regarding trying to straighten my arm. It has been bent in an L for 2 weeks and when I try to straighten it. It burns, stings and is painful so not sure it I should be doing that or not. Thank you again!
2024 and this video still applies. I just had surgery 6 days ago and was looking for some detailed insight and hope for recovery and what to expect. This video was fantastic! Can't wait to be at 6-9 months later and back to normal! Getting married in a month, which will be 5 weeks after surgery. 😮 I'll be limited.
yes... must do finger/hand/wrist exercises at least 2 times per day ... and more would be better. i have been procrastinating since the pt was stopped 2-1/2 weeks ago - and that is not good for me to do. i think dr. richards' video has jumpstarted me out of my procrastination. i do actually know that if i don't do my exercises daily it's only me that i am hurting - my pain is not felt by the pt folks or the ortho doc. so ... exercise! if i could exercise after my right knee was replaced, i can do this wrist exercise. so can you!
Just came back from Urgent care with this but it is just a crack. Im 65 so just rest and no lifting pushing or pulling. I will do the finger exercises like you said. No brace was offered.
Thank you thank you!!! I am 6 weeks plus out from breaking both bones and dislocating all 8 of the wrist bones... I would rather have another 4 babies than this pain. My Dr. told me nothing about any of this. I too, wish they had spent this 8 min. with me, but then again, don't know if I would have heard with the pain and meds. I did start moving my fingers and can make a fist... Now looking for exercises for my wrist. I don't have insurance and so therapy is not an option. Thank you so much for the info.
Super advice, thank you Dr. My cast is removed now so your advice on making a fist regularly will help my stuff fingers. I've been using stress balls but not a lot of improvement. Great video Dr.
Thank you for this. Had a minor non displaced fracture about 11 weeks ago and was really starting to worry about why pushups hurt but everything else is fine. Wish my doc explained any of that.
@@whatsyoursguy Mine was just a velcro brace from Medical Specialties. I used it for around 6 weeks. I can do pushups now. That wrist still feels a little tighter when bent back but not painful anymore. Its been about 8 months.
Glad you've healed! May I ask about the pain you had after the injury? I haven't seen a doctor (no insurance), no pain at all when I'm stationary, only pain doing certain movements like using a can opener and no way push ups. I somehow injured my wrist 3 1/2 months ago, through deduction believe this is what I have. I keep it taped or wrapped most of the time, once in a while appears swollen but not 'displaced' when comparing to my left wrist. Was your pain ever bad, like did you know immediately you fractured it?
Pain was bad for me right away. It was a bike crash. Landed right on my outstretched palm. I couldn't do much of anything with that hand. Sorry I have absolutely no qualifications to give medical advice. Just sharing my one unique experience. Good luck to you.
I just had a double break cast removed. My wrist is so swollen and hot, like its burning and its painful and stiff. The day I broke my wrist the emergency dept in our small town hospital was almost empty. I had to sleep on it and drive myself to a large hospital the next day.
7 weeks out from surgery right now, intra articular and displaced, broken in two places. I just started playing guitar again and it seems to get better everyday
That slight discomfort he was talking about I’ve been getting with my titanium plates in, funny thing is I’ve felt fine and recovered and broke many radius and ulna back in 2008 and healed fully. This past year I’ve been having discomfort in that one area he was talking about and it hasn’t gone away so I’m thinking about getting it removed
Your video is still being watched! I’m 53. I fell backwards two weeks ago and have twin distal radius fractures. R is worse than L & had to be reset in the ER and is now in a cast. L is in a stiff brace. Hoping for no surgery but already preparing myself that it may be necessary. Thank you for this informative video!
Daily yoga and playing piano are my life, but black ice wanted to take me down! I fractured right wrist and surgery is scheduled in a few days. Hope I get back to yoga and piano eventually cause I miss them!
Yeah I got unlucky broke both my wrists and needed surgery on both but it’s been two months now and I’m starting to be a little more normal definitely still hurts to bend but at least a little better know just hope eventually it returns to somewhat normal again with no pain or limitations
I broke my radius (distal and palm side up) in two places 4 months ago. Didn’t have surgery, as it was put into a cast 6 hours after breaking it and I was abroad at the time. Still cannot bend my wrist fully back and forth. To get my fingers moving after the cast was removed, I bought these silicon eggs, graded on resistance. Squeezing these into my hand to encourage my fingers to grip them, helped enormously and now I have full use of my fingers. My fingers sometimes feel stiff upon waking, but after wiggling them around and using them, it’s business as usual. This video was very informative, so thank you.
My distal radius fractured 2 days ago. It was 20 degrees backwards. Had surgery today and Luckily didn’t need pins and it was put back in place. Now I have a cast. I’m glad you discussed about weight lifting because I was working out everyday now I’m stuck like this😔 thanks for the info
@@jkittle05 I had to go into a 6 week cast. Yesterday I was just cleared and now have to do physical therapy. It can move it but it’s not as flexible and strong as it was before. It hurts rarely. Hopefully pt will help with it thi
@@cadenw3944 sure hope I don’t have this for four weeks it makes sleeping a real pain oh well ig I’ll be all healed eventually thanks for the information have a good rest of your day
From Tallahassee, FL: Thanks for all of your great info! I broke my arm/wrist/hand right after my hubby retired. Getting our HMO ins continued has been a nightmare! 6+ weeks post frx I'm wondering when I can expect surgery. BTW I was an RN for over 4 decades. I put in my time.
Jan, I was a Respiratory Therapist for 40 Years Im retire now , I recently fracture my wrist , I have Kaiser protection so far so good Im hoping to have a 100% recovering I love Yoga and it bothers me to know that I won't be able to practice it , but you know time solves every thing , good luck to you !
I sustained this exact fracture on my left wrist on 10/30/23...the ER doctor reset my wrist and i was in a cast for 2 weeks...i had surgery on 11/13/23 and a plate was inserted but on the back side. The surgeon gave me exercises to do to reduce swelling and regain flexibility....the plate is scheduled to be removed on 1/30/24...i cannot move my wrist-hand back and forth due to the plate but it seems to be healing right on schedule...
I just had ORIF surgery on my Right wrist d/t MVA. Pain was really bad day of surgery and for the next day and a half (taking pain meds round the clock). After that, it was like a switch was flipped. Pain went away, just taking OTC meds. Pain medication at night only.I can't wait to get the splint off and the stitches out Because it sure is itchy.
i just broke my wrist in a bike fall. my wrist looks like an S. at the ER took XRAYS, showed i had a Distal End Radial fracture. And going to an ORTHO on ASAP. i`m thinking a year for a full recovery. Thank you for posting...
I have the ulna hert 4 weeks they said your healed,not true my hand was swollen and I’m 65! My fingers are stiff and I worke on them every Day by my self first! It took one Month to find a therapist 😲😳🤷♀️🤷♀️😢😢They very Bussi Corona Made a Lot seek People they don’t walke and are I’ll from Fear!No one tells me if I can use the hand again and I do Qigong moving Energy I use to do Joga,can’t anymore,missing the exercise and missing my Mussels,the 60% gone in hand and Arm and Schoulders 😢😢☝️I’m not giving in,I’m loving my body more now being thankful for every little thing!DOCTOR You are wonderful a 💎 🙏💜🙏 🌹🌹🌹🌹😍😍
@@santiagoeguez1848 same here ,can't twist my wrist without pain and 80% range of motion also can't do push-ups ,it's been 6 months since my distal radius surgery
Great video!! I experienced a displaced, extra-articular, radius fracture from a mountain bike crash 2.5 weeks ago. I had surgery ORIF with plate 9 days later. No one educated me on the need to get the fingers moving. I have significant ulnar pain with it which makes it a challenge, but have kept at it every waking hour the past 2 days. Thank you for the excellent information!
8 weeks after surgery from an MTB, OTB crash on a jump line, so I feel your pain. Luckily for me my doc was a sports surgeon and got me moving immediately after surgery. Have about 70% of my movement back but have to start strength training soon. Still a ways to go before I am back on the bike but looking forward to it. Wish you the best man, hope you make a full recovery and get back out there. Just keep positive man
Thank you so much for this video! Really appreciate your time and detailed explanation! I am only 34 yo and broke my ulnar and radius 3 weeks ago and had surgery 2 weeks ago. Feeling alot more informed watching this video!
Guys look I had the worst type of fracture that could possibly be imagined in any bone I broke my arm 3 months ago and got surgery to stick all 2 bones back in and here’s my advice play any CONSOLE and only CONSOLE to get blood moving through your arm and this makes it helpful when cast gets off
I highly recommend to get those fingers moving this way blood flows through but DO NOT DO IT straight away you need be at 2 weeks post surgery and if you didn’t have surgery contact a GP
@@mujtam i was playing xbox the day after i broke it. i broke the left wrist so i was using my index finger on the left stick and the middle finger on the left trigger. my kd in cold war actually went up lol. i’m two days post surgery, and i can move my fingers a decent bit
After my cast was removed, the pain I experienced was excruciating. Perhaps the hospital should have been warned me this might happen so that I could get the appropriate medication in place.
My dr failed to tell me they were putting in a kwire....i felt this weird metal...had my daughter look down my soft cast...yep, there it was, sticking out from my wrist. Lucky for me I had the Dr's notes because of the insurance drama...there is was in plain writing but not a mention of it being there or what it entailed😡
@@precisionbrown6829 Ugh, those tingles/"sparkles! My pt told me those will go away about an inch a month. Im older so it took a while, but I have all the feeling back and no sparkles. Wish I could post a picture here of the kwire😬
@@precisionbrown6829 yes, I had two of these, they are removed when the final cast comes off. I was ten weeks out after a complicated fracture. They pull them out with pliers. No pain.
Thank you for posting this video. I broke my wrist 3weeks ago and needed the surgery and plate to repair my injury. This really helps in forming my expectations going forward. ( boy, this injury is miserable☹️) wishing everyone here going through it a speedy recovery.
Grateful for everyone’s comments they really help.
Lol just had the same injury was hit by a mini suv and had to be sedated and pushed back into place. Currently have cast on right arm
Christian Raines I’m in the same boat as y’all! Miserableee
2.5 weeks exactly for me. Displaced Radius and ulna. 11 screws 2 plates. I want my hand back haha
I’m 9weeks post surgery. My hand has some mobility now. Not a lot but I can touch my thumb to each finger tip. It hurts if I move it wrong( meaning unintentionally -watch your reflexes ) I keep my wrist brace on in public and for sleep because it feels safer. Take this Drs advice seriously when he talks about stiff fingers....mine are so tight it’s crazy but I force a closed fist pretty much all day long....it really helps. I find when I wake up in the morning it’s like starting over again.. bummer. I can’t close my fist on my own (yet ) i have to force it. When I try on my own power to close my fist I get a sickening sensation or tugging pain over the area where the plate is and it stops me immediately. I keep trying just very slow. Does anybody else have the burning nerve pain? I am so sensitive to touch at the base of my thumb area. If my sleeve touches it I’m so miserable. I wear an elastic wrap on my hand and then my brace for protection from the brace contacting my skin.☹️ well it’s teaching me patience and while the world is in lockdown I can work on my mobility. I wish you all good luck.
Bobbie Quilty Kahn wow! Yes keep making a fist as much as possible train your fingers how to regain that motion. For some reason I haven’t had any issues with mobility in my fingers, I got surgery on 2/29 after a distal radius and distal ulna fracture in a car wreck and wore a splint for 12 days and I’m on my 2nd week of occupational therapy now. I do have stiffness and mobility problems but my hands aren’t giving me any issues, it’s when I turn my arm from palm down to palm up, my bones pop and it’s a little painful. Now I’m wearing an ulnar strap and a wrist brace at night. I am going to see my doctor soon about the popping because I cannot live like this 😓 good luck to everyone
So very helpful, clear, thorough and reassuring! Nice voice and delivery..a natural teacher! Gratitude...
I need to hear a Doc like him
all the discomfort I feel after the surgery and feel the doc same me home with little bit of med . I'm in my own thinking what kind of doc do that 🤔
I learned a lot about results of an old wrist fracture. Thank you.
Learnt more from you than my own doctor
IKR
Yeah, specialists either can’t be bothered explaining assuming no one can understand what they do or just want to see the next patient for $
My surgeon wasn’t very good as far as instructions
I don’t understand how to use the glove. Surgeon said to take it when I shower. I’m 70 years old and had a plate and screws but I don’t understand what to do as far as taking the glove on or off?
@@precisionbrown6829 pop it on to protect cast if you have one water wont get through then gently take off after if it was like mine it was great. Good luck.
Hi from Ireland, Dr. Richards.
I broke my wrist last Thursday, and learnt a lot from your truly international video.
Cheers, Tom
Cheers ✋️
Love to watch this guy. I too had a distal radius wrist fracture and surgery. I am out of my cast after a very short time! 3 weeks and I am 72. I do wear my cast outside my home around lots of people but gif the most part I am out of it. I do my exercises religiously everyday! They want me doing them 3-5 times a day! I do wake up stiff some mornings so I get busy with exercises right away!
Thank you so much! I’m 62 and broke my wrist when I fell on ice. First broken bone and I want to make sure I heal properly. Your information is so valuable. ❤
I broke my wrist just before I my 63 birthday 5 weeks ago. I feel your pain.
I'm 11/12 weeks into this and had/have the stiff fingers. Been a massive struggle - Takes ages to get them bent, then next morning they're back - I know it's a long had struggle but keep the frustration at bay 👍 2 plates fitted. This Doc's advice is gold! Who'd have thought this injury was so disabling. Keep your chin up Suzi.
EXCELLENT VIDEO...EXCELLENT DOCTOR!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH!!!
@@MonicasHopeMinistryme too. 3 weeks ago 😫
@@nancymandegari4067Iwish I live close to this Doctor 🤔
Incredibly uplifting and helpful video. It's been 13 hours since my surgery and I've already made a somewhat fist since watching this video. Thank you so much.
This was extremely informative. I am recovering from a radius and ulna fracture in my left forarm. Its been 3 weeks since my surgery. My doctor did not provide as much information as you did in this video. I really appreciate it.
How did you break your arm?? Like what happened?
@@Velez. would you like to hear how I broke mine? I also fractured my radius and ulna
Can you twist your forearm
@@Velez. I did not like breaking my wrist.
I fell off a toilet.
Well it was a toilet trailer, reached for the handrail, but it was too far away. Threw my hand out in front of me to keep from landing on my head. Broke ulna and radius distal side. Also messed up my shoulder. A day before my 61st birthday.
I REALLY wish my surgeon had spent these 8 minutes with me!! Just had the plate and screws put in last week. Will get cast in 3 days. I think I need the cast for 8 weeks but al least I know what to expect!! Thank you for this video!!!
Wow I’m going for surgery tomorrow and I’m scared 😱
@@precisionbrown6829 hang tough!! There was less pain than I expected after the surgery! Do your PT like it was your job and you will recover quickly! It’s been well over a year now and it feels great!!
My surgeon spent such a little amount of time speaking to my, I don’t think I’d recognize him on the street! 😆
@@philborchelt5396 thanks Phil
I’m a guitar player for many years so it’s killing me financially! Not to mention the pain! Thanks
He/She probably would have loved to but the hospitals don't give the doctors that kind of time.
Blame the accounts. Not the guy who fixes people all day.
I’m really sad that I can’t strength train right now, but knowing how to strength train using my hands in certain angles & motions (grips) helps me to rehab at home - using really light dumbbells and resistance bands. It totally sucks to fracture your dominant wrist at 40. Grateful for videos like this.
it sucks at 25 too... :(
and as much at 29. non- dominant elbow hairline fracture by falling hand-outstretched. How soon can I be lifting again any thoughts? The muscle loss is killing me
i’m 23 and just had this happen, can you help me with any tips
@@NathanRhwmfI just had this happen to me can you help me please how are you
@@DARKW1ZARD616 yes i can, what is your ig or twitter?
35 year old Mama here! Fractured my distal radius in a rollerblading accident. This video was very informative, Thank You! I got excited when you addressed the 35 year old!!!
My 70 yro dad did this today, surgery tomorrow. It was heartbreaking to watch 6 nurses put it back in place, pain relief was morphine and a vape thing but I could feel his pain. Wish us luck, good luck everyone.
Thank you so much . Ours Best regards to you Father 🙏❤️
This is a really great video from a guy who knows his stuff, and can communicate it, to those of us who don't. Thanks for posting this no nonsense and matter-of-fact lesson.
I appreciate your efforts!
Dr. Richards, THANK YOU for taking time to create and share this video. i fell ice skating and have Colles fracture on both wrists was cast yesterday It is enormously helpful to log on and hear you explain whats going on and what to expect. Most of all it is greatly encouraging to know that in time normal use will return. Thanks again.
Linda J. Rice I broke my left wrist from a fall skating as well. I’m so sorry, you have both broken, it was very challenging with just one hand. I’m 4 months out, and still have challenging tasks, I Aldo tore ligaments. Be patient, you have to really work with your PT.
I slipped on the ice in February of 2023 and came down really hard on my right fist. Went to the ED and was immediately diagnosed with a intra radial fracture that was jamming into the joint of my wrist. the surgery was not recommended it was imperative. three days later after visiting the Orthopedics I was in the OR and the plate was surgically installed. like the doctor said here, an incision my forearm. I went back for my 10-day appointment, unfortunately in a tremendous amount of pain and discomfort. After x-rays were taken it showed that the plate had failed and that the bone had gone back to its original broken location, if I remember correctly, I think it was 48 degrees off. Another surgery was done a few days after that. My surgeon described it like wearing pants with a belt and suspenders. He has faith that this will keep it inline, and we've got hope that it wasn't going to go offline again. It's a 7 inch Rod that is screwed into some bones in my hand as well as my arm. It's now day 15 since the second surgery with the suspender and belt surgery with a rod in my arm and my hand and everyday I experience the most severe amount of pain. It says if my arm and my hand and fingers are on fire or there's a vice grip around parts of my hand and arm it's excruciating. I am due to have the rod taken out after my appointment tomorrow. Assuming the bone is still healing and place.
I will say this anybody who has experienced this type of fracture I wouldn't wish it on my worst enemy I have had 20 Orthopedic surgeries from my athletic career, and this by far has been the most painful, by far the most painful event that I've undergone. I just hope that it stays in place.
And because I cannot type I'm using talk to text so it's this is not grammatically sound I do apologize I cannot use my right hand for much. Best wishes for anybody out there with this specific fracture, and thank you Doc for your video.
Sorry for what you being through , I think the same way , don't wish nobody this torture I'm living now ! I Fracture my wrist left hand . Surgery 3 weeks ago after cast for 10 days . Now I'm home dealing with the frustrated 😠 pain 😢 God help us 🙏 for a speedy recovery 😒❤️
Praying 1 year later you are doing much better and finding peace through the pain. I’m 7 weeks post surgery of my distal radius after a bike fall 7 ft up coming down a ramp. My left hand arches forward still and I’m very active on my PT trying to self correct it. The doctor I saw before I saw my surgeon told me my hand was f**ked and he didn’t know how it would heal. I am determined to prove him wrong and regain full mobility.
To all of you, I hope you choose strength in your body and your soul. You deserve to overcome this!
I’m glad I found your video. I got more out of your vid than I’ve gotten in 3 months from my ortho office.
I am furious that no one told me to constantly make a fist!!! As a result I am going to therapy because I can't use my fingers. I wish I had watched you earlier. I am a very active 73-year-old and am miserable at five weeks after my fracture. Watching you has given me hope, though.
Debbie I hope you are doing better today!
I share the same frustration - I was barely told anything before and after my surgery. I'm almost 2 weeks out and no-one mentioned anything about a fist or moving fingers. I wasn't informed about the surgery risks either (though I assumed some of it).
@@princess-pumpkin In a few days it will be seven months since my break. I am almost back to normal as far as what I can do. I will never have full range of motion, but I couldn't do a push-up before either! Five months ago I never thought I would advance to this point. When I came out of the brace I couldn't even pick up a piece pf paper, and now I can carry heavy groceries Pay attention to the videos and good luck with your recovery!
@@debbiegibson3604 I am so glad to hear things have improved so much for you! :)
Thank you so much - I will do! x
Yes! I even told my sister not to get surgery she had a cast broke wrist wasn't even in cast 3wks they did surgery I watched several videos that said u are still suppose to do exercises in a cast move fingers daily
Oh I completely agree!!!! I'm having a hell of a time trying to work my fingers at all now. I broke mine two months ago and just got to get to ortho..
Thank you for taking time to explain these things. I had a wrist fracture 9 days ago. I have learned so much from your video. I was just rolled out to my car with a pleasant goodbye. I didn't even know what procedure I had until I looked up my online chart. Thank you again.
My husband just fractured his distal radius and ulna.. I found this video very helpful.
I did the same thing. had pins inserted and carpal release. I was in cast for 10 weeks!
Your video was informative and filled with details as to what to expect after Distal Radius surgery. My wife is the 61y/o patient that underwent ORIF surgery on Left Wrist to insert a Distal Radius Plate. We are thus far completely satisfied with the results of the surgery, but your video has provided much information that we lacked. It's just about 6 weeks since surgery and the cast was removed about 2 weeks ago. She is flexing all 5 fingers as much as she can and she exhibits pain, but after watching your video it encourages her to remain active with her hand exercises and movement. Your video has provided data that we didn't know regarding what to expect after the surgical procedure. Thank you!
Very educational. So glad you made this video. It's put me at ease for my upcoming surgery. Thank you for the tips as well. ❤
This is really awesome, cause my surgeon didn't tell me all these after radius fracture. I was kind of feared because I hardly did my supination after 1 week of surgery but understood in here that the therapies need to be commenced after 6 weeks minimum. Thank you very much!
Thanks for this video. Haven't started therapy yet but reminded me of the importance of crunching the fingers every hour. That sounds good.
I wish my dochad told me that.All he said to do was move the fingers. Also cast was too high to bend fingers very far, which I did not realize. Please do your exercises as soon s possible.Would have really helped me.
I'm 67 and glad I had the ORIF for distal radius fracture, comminuted. 9 months post now with no pain and most function restored. Do see an OT ASAP. The rest is up to you.
After a complete radial fracture involving the joint, I had surgery in August. During my (one) visit with the doctor before surgery, I was told that I could do yoga right away.
I’ve been depressed for the past 4 months, trying my hardest to do yoga, but eventually giving up from pain and immobility. I had a longer than average recovery due to extensive ulnar pain (from sprain) and was unable to move my wrist and fingers for 2 months. Hearing that 2 months is normal before wanting to exercise and 9-12 is normal for push ups brought tears to my eyes. I thought I was way behind schedule and was really hard on myself.
Thank you for making this video and for all the info on recovery, including the importance of moving fingers. Unfortunately my doctor was not as involved in patient care as you are. How wonderful to have specialists like you.
I can totally relate to what you're saying I broke mine back in August & still struggling on the road to recovery after having a plate put in. I was not prepared & was never told how tough recovery was going to be without ballet sending hugs 🤗
Thank you for your clear & concise info on wrist fractures. Def a lot of ppl viewed this Dr!👍
I sure appreciate this video. A month ago I fell and broke my wrist in two places. Now that I’m calm I know what my doctor was saying. Thank you with all my ♥️
Greatb info I have never experienced such pain in the ER, having surgery and PT. It has been HELL every day.
Wow…very good info! I am 62 and I guess my bones are still very strong because my distal radius fractured wrist was not severe at all. I just have a removable brace. I climbed on a chair to put something into the closet and fell when getting down from the chair landing on my palm. I heard the crack and saw stars so I knew something was wrong. No swelling and just a small bruise on my inner wrist. I am so glad you mentioned that exercise at the end of the video…I was not told to do any exercises. It’s been a week since my fracture so I will start doing that today. But I have been using my hand as much as possible because I am not the type to just sit around. Thank you so much for this video 👍😀
How are you doing now??
@@ptulip I was doing great until my tendon snapped. Probably happened from being too aggressive with physical therapy. My dr said he could operate to repair the tendon but then I would of had to be in a cast for 8 weeks with no hand movement at all for the 8 weeks. So I didn’t have it repaired. I have 90% movement of my thumb, which is fine…I am already used to it. But my wrist is much better. Only slight pain during certain movements.
@@Lilliancooks I am so sorry. I just had surgery Friday. Trying to get all the info I can on recovery and such. Every day is so different. I need a support chat group. Do they have those? haha
@@ptulip I know how you feel…it’s great to be able to chat with others in the same situation. Just be very careful with OT. I think if they wouldn’t have pushed me to do so much movement I would not have snapped the tendon.
@@Lilliancooks thanks for the advice, were you trying to lift objects? stretch?
Going into surgery tomorrow morning, very worried so binging surgery vids to calm myzelf. Honestly it seems quite an easy surgery so thnk you for posting this
Thank u so much. You gave me lots of good info. I'm 68 and very active and hoping after my surgery for distal radial fx will be able to do yoga again. I wish my surgeon could have explained all that u did to me.
Are you able to do yoga now?
Looky here, all the info I needed and didn't get from my surgeon. And I specifically wanted to know about the yoga and push-ups (and chin-ups). Thank you for your eloquent explanation.
Yeah Anita I love Yoga and is very discouraging that I won't be able to go through all the flows , and sequences for a while , oh well good luck to you!
Anita Maes I also have left hand distal radius fracture and 4 months put still not able to type or put any weight for a yoga pose. Very frustrating but this video definitely gives me hope. My ortho doc and hand surgeon never told me what to expect.
@@cathytussing4718 I broke my wrist 5 days ago. I have practiced yoga daily for several years. How are you doing now? Looking for feedback on length of time to return to all basic yoga poses.
@@christinekincaiddewey4791 not gonna lie, it’s was a struggle. But, I also found out I had torn ligaments. It took about 8 or 9 months before I had the pronation to lay the hand flat to do yoga or a push up. To this day, I can’t type, without my elbow in the air, and it’s been 3 years now.So, do the therapy as long as your insurance will allow! Good luck to you.
@@cathytussing4718 Thank you for the feedback. I’ll definitely follow up with PT. So sorry you’re still struggling. 🙏
I had wrist surgery plate and screws. I’ve done beautifully. I’m six weeks out and my cast is off. No problems, minimal pain actually just a little stiffness. Please do your exercises. It helps so much. Three times a day I never miss. Good lunch
That is reassuring thanks and good for you
It has been 3 months for me and I have a ton of stiffness and lots of trouble rotating my hand and fist it seems to be getting harder even though I am doing a lot of therapy.
@@banjobenson9348 I don’t know what exercises you are doing. I followed Bob and Brad wrist exercises. I also did some of them while I was in my cast per my Drs. Instructions. I would google exercises for the specific problems you are having. Sorry you are having difficulty. I’m 8 months out of surgery with no problems. It’s like it never happened. Mine was a severe double break and I gave soft bones. Good luck.
@@nonenone6899 upon follow up I had mine set at the wrong angle and have to go back in and do it with a pro, I got an ambulance chaser,.
@@nonenone6899 Hey, how is it now? Do you have full motion? Is it like your other wrist?
Thank you for your sharing. I had a total broken ulna and distal radius in my right arm for 6 weeks after surgery done next day. I am in pain and recovering through exercises and massage from these similar communities that I am learning.
Thank you so much . Amazing simple hourly exercise at end really helps. What a wonderful explanation of what to expect after my distal radius break.
Just the reality check I needed 8 weeks after injury, 7 weeks after surgery. Getting the fingers moving. Keyboard on iPad helps. Thank you
Thank you so much for this informative video. I just had surgery and this info was very helpful!
Thank you I broke my wrist yesterday- cycle accident , Smith fracture surgery in four days. I appreciate your video.
Hope your surgery went well. I fractured mine, waiting for Ortho in two days for assessing treatment.
Very informative! I fractured my wrist while in the garden. I am over 55 and the pain was horrific! I find out tomorrow as to whether or not surgery is to be done. Your video put my mind at ease as to what to expect. Thank you.
Hi... How are you now? Have you undergone through surgery? If yes, how long u felt the pain?
Thank you for explaining this to me. I’m 68 y/o female who was in my sister backyard when I saw 2 dogs cross the street and come in the front yard, then I didn’t see them anymore until I got up to leave, and both dogs was within arms length barking and growling at me. I started backing away from the dogs and after taking a few steps backwards, I fell on the ground. The dogs were still coming towards me, a neighbor ran into his house and came back out with a golf club waving it at the dogs. I tried getting up, but I couldn’t because my right wrist was hurting, eventually I got up, the dogs were still coming after the man with the club and me also. They followed us all the way to his back porch. After a while they left. I immediately noticed my wrist was swollen and hurting. After the neighbor drive me home I put an ice pack on my wrist (7Pm) and went to the ER around 5:45 that Tuesday morning and was told that I had cracked my wrist and that surgery was not needed. Tomorrow is Friday and I have an 8:30 appointment with the orthopedic doctor. ER Dr. put a split from the last two joints of my finger all the way above my elbow. I have been keeping it elevated on pillows in bed and in a sling out of bed. I’m able to wiggle and make a fist and I have been moving my fingers and making a fist often even though it hurts some. I’ll know more tomorrow and thank you for your educational video. New subscriber ✝️🙏🏾✝️
Thank you so much, i’m 18 and broke and dislocated my arm from falling off my off my bike a week ago and had surgery done two days ago with these plates and screws, and the information provided was very helpful and reassuring because I enjoy assembling builds together and playing video games. As of right now i can hold my arm without a sling and have it hold by itself, and i’ve been moving my fingers in my palm constantly and it did feel a little bad at first but it got easier the more i did it. Good luck to everyone else in their surgery and recovery and hopes to never breaking a bone again 😌😌
Hi it's 2 months since you posted this. How are you? Did you start training yet?
Hope everything is going well!
I got a surgery 1 week ago and I am worried about the time line
@@marcnd3482 don’t worry I broke my 2 hands and my shoulder they put the same metal plate on my wrist my 2 week the pain is going to almost go away it will still hurt but not to bad there not going to put you in a cast it’s just going to be a thing that protects your wrist but you can take it off don’t be scared to move your wrist it’s going to help if you move it hope I help 👍🏼
Thank you so, so much for this video, Just broke my hand a few weeks ago, very complex, operation 17 days ago and nobody told me about the last thing you said in your video about bending my fingers all the time. I really hope my fingers will be better now. They hurt so much whwn I am bending them. So, thanks from Norway! Wish you all the best. Vigdis.
Don’t you go to therapy? That’s a must! Omg…you absolutely need some therapy. How old are you?
I cracked my left radius , distal , I declined the cast /plaster at the hospital. No deformities, limited ROM , 2/10. I just bought a brace/splint for a lot cheaper. Thank you for sharing this video! It does help , very informative too!
How old are you? Omg did you even go to a specialist?
Thank you - had a bad compound distal radius fracture & this explains very well, yes - learnt more from you than my own doctor!
My surgeon told me the same thing about bending the fingers to the palm and holding to work on the stiffness. I like this surgeon's manner and explanation of things used in the plate screw procedure.
But I’m thankful for the information because I had surgery on distal radius so i now understand what really happened to me . Thank you
Thank you so much for this video. I feel better and more informed about my upcoming wrist surgery. I’m going to put more focus on moving my fingers!
Thanks doc I just had ORIF of distal radius 6 weeks post op now. I’m a clinical coder so I didn’t ask my Internist or Ortho for all the details, got my facility bill it was 3 or more fragments. Had removable cast (fast form). Have started PT but, feel a bit better about my status have watched. Don’t think my surgeon will be disappointed. 😀
Did you get your range of motion back already?
Thanks for this great video. I recently broke my wrist and had a metal plate inserted. Some great advice for me to take on. Much appreciated
i broke my wrist 2 days ago. i’m getting surgery next friday to get a plate and some screws out in. i’m a little nervous. how was it for you?
@@brodysmith8749 Hi mate,
I was in a cast for 2 weeks as the metal plate provides the wrist the support it needs.
After, you will be given a wrist strap to wear which you can take off.
You will need to rest and not apply any pressure for at least 10 weeks.
Physiotherapy is very key to recovery as your wrist will become extremely stiff. Don't be disheartened by the lack of mobility as the more physio you do the better you wrist will get. I watched several TH-cam videos that helped with my physio.
After 3 months I was able to go back to the gym and do light weights.
I am currently on week 18 and feel much better!
Feel free to ask me any other questions as I know exactly what you are going through!
@Diana Flores Best to let it heal and not apply any pressure on it for 10 weeks. I found that doing consistent physiotherapy everyday helped me with my recovery. After you get the cast off you will have minimal mobility in the wrist. I watched many youtube videos on different physio exercises I could do for my wrist
@@MegaReveiws thanks mate. i’ll let you know how it goes my man.
@@brodysmith8749 just broke mine palm down fall. Going for surgery Tuesday and I’m a guitar player 😬
Thank you so much that was very helpful. I broke my wrist a week ago and had surgery five days ago. I have been exercising my fingers ever since the nerve block wore off. So I’m on the road to recovery…!!
How are you now? I just fractured mine too. Just getting back from the ER
Great info about moving the fingers. Mine are stiff and can’t start therapy till next month- insurance! So glad I watched this- and YES IT HURTS but I’ll do it anyway.
Thank you so much. For sharing with us I've been up against that decision to get a plate or not I'm not getting the right care from the doctors up here in Pennsylvania and so I'm left to try to decide on my own you really shared information with me that helps me to feel a little more comfortable with my choices it's people like you that make us trust doctors once again
This was very informative. Im an optometrist technician and got a distal radius fracture two weeks ago. Currently working at front desk splinted so lots of finger movement. Get a cast tomorrow hopefully and so far not in the clear to not get surgery. Wish me luck 🙏🏻
Excellent! Any updates? I’m in a splint for 3days now. Will see orthopedic in 2 days to about a cast. Hopefully no surgery
@@princehakim4905 why you dont want surgery may i ask? The healing wiil be quiker right
Thank you thank you. I have a displaced radius and ulna fracture, awaiting surgery from falling in Colorado.
I just had a distial radius fracture that was Gonna take 6-8 weeks in a cast and need re alignment surgery it went amazing and I’m getting my cast off 3 weeks in surgery is something not be scared of as it’s only gonna help you in the long run 😁
I had the same surgery, how is your arm now a year on? 😊
I had a complete distal end radius fracture, on an 1.75" angle which the doc just placed a fiberglass split where I had to make a fist, and the cast went down 1" above my elbow, wrapping around the sides of my arm with an ace bandage for 2 weeks till the swollen hand went down then a soft cast for 8 weeks. Turned out great, but still working on exercises to lose it up. :)
Was it intra articular?
Thank you for making this video. I broke mine last week. A cast was fitted but the bone is not in the correct position. i am now waiting for surgery to fit the plate.
I had an intraarticular fracture of the distal radius. I wish my doctor had been able to explain my injury like Dr. Richards. I was initially told by a Harvard
Trained orthopedist that I didn’t need surgery. Good thing I listened to Dr. Richards, and went to a hand surgeon who correctly diagnosed me with a displaced Barton fracture. I had a volar plating and am now, at 3 weeks typing this comment. It seems to me that after volar plating, early motion is critical.
For one thing you are not dependent for an extra 4-6 weeks. It’s easier to get the motion early, than work for weeks after you’ve been immobilized for 6 weeks Thank you Dr. Richards for the explanation and caring in posting this video. Wish I’d had you as my surgeon.
Hey i have an intra articular fracture too. Did you wait to have surgery in yours? Was there an osteoarthritis risks or development? Im on week if with a cast
I just had this surgery done three days ago. This has been the most comprehensive informative video I have seen since then.Thank you so much! You answered so many of the questions that I am having!
Everything you stated was exactly like my case, even down to my age.
My only question is regarding trying to straighten my arm. It has been bent in an L for 2 weeks and when I try to straighten it. It burns, stings and is painful so not sure it I should be doing that or not. Thank you again!
2024 and this video still applies. I just had surgery 6 days ago and was looking for some detailed insight and hope for recovery and what to expect. This video was fantastic! Can't wait to be at 6-9 months later and back to normal! Getting married in a month, which will be 5 weeks after surgery. 😮 I'll be limited.
Super helpful! Thank you! My husband just had the plate put in and now I know to tell him to keep making a fist!
OMG I wished I’d seen this video earlier. Thank you Dr. learned more here than from mine
yes... must do finger/hand/wrist exercises at least 2 times per day ... and more would be better. i have been procrastinating since the pt was stopped 2-1/2 weeks ago - and that is not good for me to do. i think dr. richards' video has jumpstarted me out of my procrastination. i do actually know that if i don't do my exercises daily it's only me that i am hurting - my pain is not felt by the pt folks or the ortho doc. so ... exercise! if i could exercise after my right knee was replaced, i can do this wrist exercise. so can you!
Just came back from Urgent care with this but it is just a crack. Im 65 so just rest and no lifting pushing or pulling. I will do the finger exercises like you said. No brace was offered.
Thank you! Just fell and fractured distal, not displaced. Six weeks....
Thank you thank you!!! I am 6 weeks plus out from breaking both bones and dislocating all 8 of the wrist bones... I would rather have another 4 babies than this pain. My Dr. told me nothing about any of this. I too, wish they had spent this 8 min. with me, but then again, don't know if I would have heard with the pain and meds. I did start moving my fingers and can make a fist... Now looking for exercises for my wrist. I don't have insurance and so therapy is not an option. Thank you so much for the info.
How do you feel today?
Super advice, thank you Dr. My cast is removed now so your advice on making a fist regularly will help my stuff fingers. I've been using stress balls but not a lot of improvement. Great video Dr.
Thank you for this. Had a minor non displaced fracture about 11 weeks ago and was really starting to worry about why pushups hurt but everything else is fine. Wish my doc explained any of that.
did they put on a hard cast, or brace? can you recommend a brace? same as you but they just put on a hard cast and no way jose! thank you either way!
@@whatsyoursguy Mine was just a velcro brace from Medical Specialties. I used it for around 6 weeks. I can do pushups now. That wrist still feels a little tighter when bent back but not painful anymore. Its been about 8 months.
@@dansacco1964 thank Amigo, i really appreciate it! Glad the push up made a comeback
Glad you've healed! May I ask about the pain you had after the injury? I haven't seen a doctor (no insurance), no pain at all when I'm stationary, only pain doing certain movements like using a can opener and no way push ups. I somehow injured my wrist 3 1/2 months ago, through deduction believe this is what I have. I keep it taped or wrapped most of the time, once in a while appears swollen but not 'displaced' when comparing to my left wrist. Was your pain ever bad, like did you know immediately you fractured it?
Pain was bad for me right away. It was a bike crash. Landed right on my outstretched palm. I couldn't do much of anything with that hand. Sorry I have absolutely no qualifications to give medical advice. Just sharing my one unique experience. Good luck to you.
I just had a double break cast removed. My wrist is so swollen and hot, like its burning and its painful and stiff. The day
I broke my wrist the emergency dept in our small town hospital was almost empty. I had to sleep on it and drive myself to a large hospital the next day.
Can you rotate your forearm?
@@juanrodriguez5244 Yes but it it has been 5 months now and my fingers are still quite stiff ands I cant tilt my wrist up very far.
@@ratcat7668 how long did it take you to twist your forearm?
@@juanrodriguez5244 It took at least four months - you have to exercise it all the time. The more you push the faster it will heal.
Great video doctor. Thank you for all that information, I am going through the healing process information.
Thank you Joshua, we are watching and listening, i value your knowledge and desire to inform
I had this surgery but I also had a bone graft taken from my hip and placed in my wrist
7 weeks out from surgery right now, intra articular and displaced, broken in two places. I just started playing guitar again and it seems to get better everyday
That slight discomfort he was talking about I’ve been getting with my titanium plates in, funny thing is I’ve felt fine and recovered and broke many radius and ulna back in 2008 and healed fully. This past year I’ve been having discomfort in that one area he was talking about and it hasn’t gone away so I’m thinking about getting it removed
Your video is still being watched! I’m 53. I fell backwards two weeks ago and have twin distal radius fractures. R is worse than L & had to be reset in the ER and is now in a cast. L is in a stiff brace. Hoping for no surgery but already preparing myself that it may be necessary. Thank you for this informative video!
I know what you are going thru. I broke both of mine at the same time as well.Please be patient with your healing. It will get better very soon.
you are so kind! thank you. It's already feeling better and I'm in the PT phase now :-) Take good care @@judithdean7127
Thank you Dr, that helped me alot, I appreciate it. (as i sit here with my finger tips in my palm)
Daily yoga and playing piano are my life, but black ice wanted to take me down! I fractured right wrist and surgery is scheduled in a few days. Hope I get back to yoga and piano eventually cause I miss them!
Distal radius impaction happened June 1. Due for surgery June 8. Am 69. Really nervous until watching video. Thank you so much!
Very helpful 😊I fractured my wrist in November so hoping I can get back to tennis by February March.
Just had this surgery a week ago had nerve block when the block wore off ong talk about severe pain… I’m a little better long road to recovery
Broo i had the same! Than pain was awfull! How are you now? Im 1 week post surgery
Thank you for this video! It’s great see see a doctor from the Bay!❤️
Yeah I got unlucky broke both my wrists and needed surgery on both but it’s been two months now and I’m starting to be a little more normal definitely still hurts to bend but at least a little better know just hope eventually it returns to somewhat normal again with no pain or limitations
I just had wrist radius surgery yesterday and everything went well
Same here. did u need pins?
Landyn Paradis I have a plate and screws
My shit hurt like a Mika bruhh 🤣🤣 I got 3 bones broke in my wrist
@@katiegottfried1132 hey how are you now?
@@gianni3774 I’m good
I broke my radius (distal and palm side up) in two places 4 months ago. Didn’t have surgery, as it was put into a cast 6 hours after breaking it and I was abroad at the time. Still cannot bend my wrist fully back and forth. To get my fingers moving after the cast was removed, I bought these silicon eggs, graded on resistance. Squeezing these into my hand to encourage my fingers to grip them, helped enormously and now I have full use of my fingers. My fingers sometimes feel stiff upon waking, but after wiggling them around and using them, it’s business as usual.
This video was very informative, so thank you.
Ah, thankfully a full timeline from beginning to real activity. Thank you!
My distal radius fractured 2 days ago. It was 20 degrees backwards. Had surgery today and Luckily didn’t need pins and it was put back in place. Now I have a cast. I’m glad you discussed about weight lifting because I was working out everyday now I’m stuck like this😔 thanks for the info
Are you all healed up now I broke mine a week ago and was wondering how long it took to hesl
@@jkittle05 I had to go into a 6 week cast. Yesterday I was just cleared and now have to do physical therapy. It can move it but it’s not as flexible and strong as it was before. It hurts rarely. Hopefully pt will help with it thi
@@cadenw3944 thanks what kinda cast where you in I’m in a full arm rn and they said they will make it smaller in a week
@@jkittle05 yup that’s what they did to me. Long arm for 4 weeks and short for 2 weeks
@@cadenw3944 sure hope I don’t have this for four weeks it makes sleeping a real pain oh well ig I’ll be all healed eventually thanks for the information have a good rest of your day
Thank you. This video very helpful after my distal radius fracture.
From Tallahassee, FL: Thanks for all of your great info! I broke my arm/wrist/hand right after my hubby retired. Getting our HMO ins continued has been a nightmare! 6+ weeks post frx I'm wondering when I can expect surgery. BTW I was an RN for over 4 decades. I put in my time.
Jan, I was a Respiratory Therapist for 40 Years Im retire now , I recently fracture my wrist , I have Kaiser protection so far so good Im hoping to have a 100% recovering I love Yoga and it bothers me to know that I won't be able to practice it , but you know time solves every thing , good luck to you !
Thank you Dr. Richards!
I sustained this exact fracture on my left wrist on 10/30/23...the ER doctor reset my wrist and i was in a cast for 2 weeks...i had surgery on 11/13/23 and a plate was inserted but on the back side. The surgeon gave me exercises to do to reduce swelling and regain flexibility....the plate is scheduled to be removed on 1/30/24...i cannot move my wrist-hand back and forth due to the plate but it seems to be healing right on schedule...
How is your wrist now?
I just had ORIF surgery on my Right wrist d/t MVA. Pain was really bad day of surgery and for the next day and a half (taking pain meds round the clock). After that, it was like a switch was flipped. Pain went away, just taking OTC meds. Pain medication at night only.I can't wait to get the splint off and the stitches out Because it sure is itchy.
i just broke my wrist in a bike fall. my wrist looks like an S. at the ER took XRAYS, showed i had a Distal End Radial fracture. And going to an ORTHO on ASAP. i`m thinking a year for a full recovery. Thank you for posting...
I have the ulna hert 4 weeks they said your healed,not true my hand was swollen and I’m 65! My fingers are stiff and I worke on them every Day by my self first! It took one Month to find a therapist 😲😳🤷♀️🤷♀️😢😢They very Bussi Corona Made a Lot seek People they don’t walke and are I’ll from Fear!No one tells me if I can use the hand again and I do Qigong moving Energy I use to do Joga,can’t anymore,missing the exercise and missing my Mussels,the 60% gone in hand and Arm and Schoulders 😢😢☝️I’m not giving in,I’m loving my body more now being thankful for every little thing!DOCTOR You are wonderful a 💎 🙏💜🙏 🌹🌹🌹🌹😍😍
It's been 5 months since my wrist surgery and the range of motion on my wrist is 80% twist plus the pain
Himanshu saxena it's been 8 months since mine and I still cant do push ups because of pain , how's yours
@@santiagoeguez1848 same here ,can't twist my wrist without pain and 80% range of motion also can't do push-ups ,it's been 6 months since my distal radius surgery
It's been a month since i have this kind of fracture but i still did not go for a surgery ☹️
can you do push-ups yet
Great video!! I experienced a displaced, extra-articular, radius fracture from a mountain bike crash 2.5 weeks ago. I had surgery ORIF with plate 9 days later. No one educated me on the need to get the fingers moving. I have significant ulnar pain with it which makes it a challenge, but have kept at it every waking hour the past 2 days. Thank you for the excellent information!
Same was not told about moving fingers...having to go to hand therapy now it has been 4 months and not quite able to make a full fist yet.
8 weeks after surgery from an MTB, OTB crash on a jump line, so I feel your pain. Luckily for me my doc was a sports surgeon and got me moving immediately after surgery. Have about 70% of my movement back but have to start strength training soon. Still a ways to go before I am back on the bike but looking forward to it. Wish you the best man, hope you make a full recovery and get back out there. Just keep positive man
I just had a displaced Colles fx 2 weeks ago & am an avid road cyclist. How long before you felt comfortable back on the bike?
Thank you for this information. This was really helpful. I’m 5 weeks post-op.
What did your surgeons do ? How are you now ?
Cuz itz been 5 weeks of my surgery too
@@CAT-ly2wo how are you doing now? Im now 1 week post surgery
Thank you so much for this video! Really appreciate your time and detailed explanation! I am only 34 yo and broke my ulnar and radius 3 weeks ago and had surgery 2 weeks ago. Feeling alot more informed watching this video!
how's it been since?
Are You ok Now?
@@tropicaljuice2725 2 years post surgery, my wrist is all good! No pain or soreness
@@beanbagbetty1214 great, hey...Do you have the x-rays?
Guys look I had the worst type of fracture that could possibly be imagined in any bone I broke my arm 3 months ago and got surgery to stick all 2 bones back in and here’s my advice play any CONSOLE and only CONSOLE to get blood moving through your arm and this makes it helpful when cast gets off
like xbox and shit?
I highly recommend to get those fingers moving this way blood flows through but DO NOT DO IT straight away you need be at 2 weeks post surgery and if you didn’t have surgery contact a GP
@@mujtam i was playing xbox the day after i broke it. i broke the left wrist so i was using my index finger on the left stick and the middle finger on the left trigger. my kd in cold war actually went up lol. i’m two days post surgery, and i can move my fingers a decent bit
No it will slowly increase the movement in you fingers
But that doesn’t mean it wouldn’t heal it the fact that’s still broken is still their so be carefull
Hoping for no surgery, but nice to know what I am facing
After my cast was removed, the pain I experienced was excruciating. Perhaps the hospital should have been warned me this might happen so that I could get the appropriate medication in place.
My dr failed to tell me they were putting in a kwire....i felt this weird metal...had my daughter look down my soft cast...yep, there it was, sticking out from my wrist. Lucky for me I had the Dr's notes because of the insurance drama...there is was in plain writing but not a mention of it being there or what it entailed😡
@@andrearoose5919 a wire sticking out?
Absolutely and it’s been exactly a month after my surgery and it still hurts and feels exactly like when your hand falls asleep but pain is included
@@precisionbrown6829 Ugh, those tingles/"sparkles! My pt told me those will go away about an inch a month. Im older so it took a while, but I have all the feeling back and no sparkles. Wish I could post a picture here of the kwire😬
@@precisionbrown6829 yes, I had two of these, they are removed when the final cast comes off. I was ten weeks out after a complicated fracture. They pull them out with pliers. No pain.