About the exercises
The exercises will maintain the muscular function and mobility when you have a broken forearm or elbow in a cast.
When you get home
Use the sling correctly
Your hand should be elevated above your elbow when wearing the sling. Use the sling on the first day, except at night. If your entire arm is in a cast, use the sling if you are in pain.
Do not wear jewellery on the injured hand
Avoid wearing rings on the injured hand as your fingers may swell.
Use your arm while it is in a cast
Move your arm and fingers as much as possible every day, even while wearing a cast. This will help you maintain mobility and avoid swelling. Use your arm as you normally would when dressing, cleaning and eating. Do not lift heavy objects, for example grocery bags, for six to eight weeks.
Exercises
Begin rehabilitation immediately
Start doing the exercises while you are wearing the cast. These exercises will help you regain mobility faster. We will guide you through the exercises.
Complete the exercises four to five times a day and repeat each exercise at least 15 times. Relax your shoulders and keep an easy pace.
If you begin to feel pain while doing the exercises, take a 30-minute break and then continue doing the exercises. Remove your sling when you are doing the exercises.
Exercise 1
- Stretch your fingers.
- Slowly make a fist by first bending the joints closest to the fingertip, then the middle joints and finally the joints at the base of your fingers.
- Release the fist and stretch out your fingers.
Exercise 8
Straighten your back, lower your shoulders and keep your arms by your side.
- Push your chest forward and pull your shoulders back.
- Let your chest and shoulders relax.
Worth knowing
We will assess whether you need to be examined for osteoporosis (brittle bones)
If the fracture could be due to osteoporosis, you should contact your general practitioner for an examination. Osteoporosis is easy to treat, and treatment will reduce the risk of more fractures.