Distal radius fracture ORIF
Realigns a broken wrist (distal radius) and holds it with a metal plate and screws. Common after a fall onto an outstretched hand when the bone is too displaced for a cast alone.
- Phases
4
- Red flagsEscalation
3
- Sources
1
Page reviewed — follow your clinical team for decisions.
Why it's done
- Displaced or unstable distal radius fractures
- Fractures into the wrist joint surface
Typical recovery phases
General patterns only — your protocol wins.
These phases describe common themes many teams use after this type of procedure. Your surgeon and hand therapist set the exact timeline, motion limits, and return-to-work or driving rules.
- Phase 1Weeks 0–2
Wound healing, finger motion, swelling control.
Elevate the hand; move every finger often; wear the splint as directed.
- Phase 2Weeks 2–6
Begin wrist motion as cleared.
Gentle wrist range of motion; no lifting or pushing.
- Phase 3Weeks 6–12
Add light strengthening.
Putty, light grip work; progress with therapist guidance.
- Phase 4Months 3–6
Return to demanding tasks.
Heavier lifting and impact return last.
Red flags — call your team
Contact your surgical team urgently for new or worsening symptoms like these. If you cannot reach them and the problem feels life-threatening, use local emergency services.
- Increasing pain, swelling, or color change
- New numbness or weakness
- Drainage, fever, or hardware-site pain
Splints you may wear
Names and designs vary by hospital. These splint education pages match common post-operative supports for this procedure — confirm what you were given before changing anything.
Related motions in the movement library
Canonical hand-therapy movements linked to this condition for education — not a substitute for your own program or clearance.
Sources
Independent references we used to shape this overview. They do not replace your clinician's instructions or your local emergency pathways.
- Distal Radius Fractures (Broken Wrist) — AAOS OrthoInfo(accessed 2026-04-22)