Will my bone fracture stabilize with the splint or do I need bone casting?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have a fracture of the ulna bone and visited an orthopedician today. Because of the wounds on my knuckles, as you can see in the picture, the doctor could not cast it. Instead, a splint is put on it that I shall remove only for shower. Shall I take a shower with the splint? Will the fracture settle with the splint, or casting has to be done after five days?

Kindly help.

Thanks.

Answered by Dr. Atul Prakash

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

You shall keep the splint on while you shower as reapplication is always a little tricky, and though you may succeed most of the time, it will be impractical if you are in a hurry. So cover it with a readymade waterproof cover with an elasticated mouth. After five weeks, there will be no need for a cast, so most likely, you will lose the splint then.

All the best.

Regards.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thanks for responding.

Is it advisable to make a fist and move my fingers? When can I do pushups and lift weights?

Give your opinion.

Answered by Dr. Atul Prakash

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

It is mandatory to keep using the hand to do activities of daily living like buttoning, putting clothes on, carry a cuppa, or something light. In addition, do fist often to drain the blood from the fingers. Weight lifting and push-up can be done only when the splint comes off. It takes two to three weeks after the splint is off to return to complete-fledged activities.

Take care.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thanks for responding.

As I am advised not to grip the handlebars, shall I use a stationary bike? What intensity is advisable? My orthopedician was unclear in his answer.

Kindly help.

Answered by Dr. Atul Prakash

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

You can use a stationary bike as long as you do not lean on the handlebars as it would not have a power grip. However, if you feel pain discontinue it. As it is a sign that you are doing things too soon in the process of recovery.

I hope this would help.

Regards.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thanks for your reply.

How do I keep my splint dry from sweat as I sweat with increased intensity?

Kindly help.

Answered by Dr. Atul Prakash

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Sweat is challenging to counter, really not much to add except to exercise in a cool environment. Also, you can wear an easy dry stockinette under the splint.

Regards.

Was this conversation helpful?

Answered by Dr. Atul Prakash

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team

July 29, 2021

January 22, 2024

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Atul Prakash

Orthopedician and Traumatology

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