Do you need a cast for a hairline fracture in your arm?
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Do you need a cast for a hairline fracture in your arm?
Usually, the fracture will be set and then the arm put into a cast for several months to ensure clean healing and then physical therapy will bring you as close as possible to full use of the affected limb.
Can a hairline fracture heal without a cast?
The quick answer is hairline fractures usually heal by themselves but usually require immobilization. Continued exposure to weight bearing or force can slow the healing process.
How do you treat a hairline fracture in your arm?
If you suspect a hairline fracture, the following are first aid treatments that can be performed prior to seeing a doctor:
- Follow the RICE method: Rest. Ice. Compression. Elevation.
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as acetaminophen can also help with pain.
Can you have a fracture without a cast?
Technically speaking, the answer to the question “can broken bones heal without a cast?” is yes. Assuming conditions are just right, a broken bone can heal without a cast. However, (and very importantly) it doesn’t work in all cases. Likewise, a broken bone left to heal without a cast may heal improperly.
What happens if you don’t cast a fracture?
The broken bone must be properly aligned and held in place, often with a plaster cast, so it heals in the correct position. If you do not receive the correct treatment, you could develop a serious infection or a permanent deformity. You may also have long-term problems with your joints.
Can a brace heal a fracture?
A cast brace, also known as a fracture brace, is used to further the healing process after the initial molded cast is removed. Cast braces can also be utilized when a fracture is slow to heal.
Can a hairline fracture heal in 2 weeks?
Because it usually takes up to six to eight weeks to completely heal from a hairline fracture, it’s important to modify your activities during that time.
Can I get a brace instead of a cast?
Braces come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. They can be used immediately following an injury or toward the end of healing, normally following removal of another type of cast.
Are hairline fractures serious?
A hairline fracture might seem like a mild problem, but ignoring the issue and putting further pressure on the bone can lead to a more serious breakage. It’s best to visit a doctor and take it easy, especially if you’re an athlete. If left untreated, a hairline fracture can quickly become a more debilitating injury.
