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Surgery & recovery

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.

Why it's done

  • Displaced or unstable distal radius fractures
  • Fractures into the wrist joint surface

Typical recovery phases

Timelines are general patterns. Your surgeon's protocol always wins.

  1. 1Weeks 0–2

    Wound healing, finger motion, swelling control.

    Elevate the hand; move every finger often; wear the splint as directed.

  2. 2Weeks 2–6

    Begin wrist motion as cleared.

    Gentle wrist range of motion; no lifting or pushing.

  3. 3Weeks 6–12

    Add light strengthening.

    Putty, light grip work; progress with therapist guidance.

  4. 4Months 3–6

    Return to demanding tasks.

    Heavier lifting and impact return last.

Red flags — call your team

  • Increasing pain, swelling, or color change
  • New numbness or weakness
  • Drainage, fever, or hardware-site pain

Splints you may wear

Sources