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Wrist Fracture Recovery: How to Heal Faster & Stronger

Checkmark Medically reviewed and edited by: Chris Porter, OTR/L, CHT

A wrist fracture, particularly a distal radius fracture, is a common injury that can significantly impact daily life. Whether from a fall, sports injury, or accident, recovering properly is essential to restore mobility, strength, and function. While time plays a crucial role in healing, occupational therapy can accelerate recovery, ensuring the wrist regains full strength and flexibility. In this guide, we will explore the healing process and benefits of occupational therapy.


Understanding the Wrist Fracture Healing Process

Healing from a broken wrist follows a structured process involving three major phases. The first stage, known as the inflammation phase, lasts from 0-7 days. During this time, the body works to form a blood clot around the fractured bone, and soft tissues begin repairing the injury. Patients typically experience swelling and pain as the body initiates its natural healing process.

As healing progresses into the repair phase (1-6 weeks), bone fragments are gradually replaced with new bone tissue. This phase is critical in ensuring proper alignment of the wrist bone and surrounding carpal bones. 
Finally, during the remodeling phase (6+ weeks), the bone strengthens and reshapes, restoring its pre-injury structure. The entire recovery time varies depending on factors such as bone density, type and location of fracture, and method of treatment.

Why Occupational Therapy is Essential for Wrist Fracture Recovery

A fractured wrist may heal while immobilized in a plaster cast, but this can often lead to stiffness, muscle loss, and limited mobility. Engaging in occupational therapy is crucial to ensure a full recovery by:
  • Maintaining joint flexibility to prevent restricted movement.
  • Enhancing blood flow to facilitate bone healing.
  • Strengthening the surrounding muscles and ligaments to support structural stability.
  • Reducing the risk of long-term complications such as stiffness and weakness in the wrist.

Chris-Porter-98x120jpg“Seeing an Occupational Therapist who can tailor and individualize a treatment plan based on your needs is essential to achieving optimal results.”
— Chris Porter, OTR, CHT

Lifestyle & Nutrition Tips for Optimal Recovery

A balanced approach of nutrition, rest, and exercise can significantly impact recovery. Consuming dairy products, leafy greens, and protein-rich foods can enhance bone repair. Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol is crucial, as these can interfere with bone regeneration. Staying hydrated and engaging in safe rehabilitation exercises can further promote a successful recovery process. Supplements such as calcium, vitamin D and magnesium can also assist in bone growth; however, consulting your doctor beforehand is always a good idea. 

Post-Surgical Rehabilitation: Occupational Therapy after Surgery

For patients requiring surgical treatment, procedures such as internal fixation with screws or plates, percutaneous fixation or external fixation may be used to stabilize unstable fractures. Following surgery, occupational therapy helps manage pain, swelling, and stiffness, and promotes ROM and strength to regain functional use of your wrist and hand. 


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Get Expert Occupational Therapy for Faster Recovery

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Occupational therapy is a proven method to aid in the wrist fracture recovery process. By incorporating a treatment plan emphasizing reduction of swelling, range of motion, stretching, and strengthening exercises, patients can accelerate healing and regain wrist function efficiently.


Schedule an Appointment Today:

For your convenience San Antonio Regional Hospital has three physical therapy locations that are ready to help you.   
Click here to print a flyer of all three of our locations.    Click here to view a map of our locations.

Sierra San Antonio Medical Plaza
16465 Sierra Lakes Parkway, Suite 105
Fontana, CA 92336
Monday through Thursday 7:30 am to 6 pm
Call to schedule an appointment: 909.434.1130


Rancho San Antonio Medical Plaza
7777 Milliken Avenue, Suite G-30
(south building entrance)
Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
Monday through Friday, 7 am to 6 pm
Call to schedule an appointment: 909.948.8080
San Antonio Regional Hospital
999 San Bernardino Road
Upland, CA 91786
Monday through Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm
Call to schedule an appointment: 909.920.4920


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