This leaflet answers common questions about midshaft forearm fractures. If you would like further information, or have any worries, please do not hesitate to ask your nearest clinician.

What is a midshaft forearm fracture?

This is a break to a bone in your forearm.

Healing

This normally takes six to eight weeks for the fracture to heal. Smoking will slow down your healing. We would advise that you stop smoking while your fracture heals. Talk to your GP for more information.

Feeling and movement of your hand

It is important that you can always wiggle your fingers and that you have a full feeling in your hand. If you lose movement or feeling in your hand you should go back to the emergency department (A&E) immediately for your plaster to be checked.

Pain and swelling

You have been fitted with a plaster and given a sling. Keep your arm elevated in the sling or on a pillow. This will help to reduce your swelling and pain. Take pain medication as prescribed.

Exercise and activity

Start these exercises straight away. Bend and straighten your fingers and thumb 10-15 times. Do these movements regularly in the day. The cast may restrict your movement initially.

Follow-up

You will see an upper limb specialist 7-10 days (about one and a half weeks) after your injury. Your cast will be taken off and your arm will be examined. You might have another x-ray. You may be fitted with another cast. The specialist will explain the next stage of your recovery.

Concern about your symptoms

If you are concerned about your symptoms and/or am struggling to return to exercise, please contact the virtual fracture clinic.

Driving

You can return to driving when:

  • You are no longer using a sling
  • You can move comfortably and
  • You can control the vehicle safely

Always test your ability to drive in a safe environment first.

Fitness for work statement

You can get a fitness for work statement from your GP or the doctor at your fracture clinic appointment.