CYP Physiotherapy/ MSK/Advice following elbow/wrist cast/K-wire removal Version 4
(NTC code: 5.2.1.4.1.4)
Date of Issue: June 2014
Date of review: December 2024
Review Date: December 2026
If review date has passed, the content will apply until the next version is published
What should I expect after my cast/K-wire removal?
Your arm may be a bit stiff and sore for a few days after the cast comes off. This is normal. It is also normal to be nervous about using your arm.
Why is my arm stiff?
Your arm feels stiff because it has been in cast. The cast stops your arm moving and gives it time to heal.
Why is my arm sore?
Your arm is sore because it has not moved normally in a long time. Once you begin to use the arm normally again the pain will start to ease off. Simple analgesia (Pain Killers) and or ice can be helpful for the first few days.
What can I do to help make it better?
Try and use your arm as normally as possible. Try to move your shoulder, wrist and fingers regularly. You can also move your arm as shown in the pictures on the next page. Try to do them frequently every day.
When should I stop doing my exercises?
You should stop doing your exercises when you can easily use the arm normally.
When should I go back to my sport/PE at school?
You should avoid contact sports for 3 months or as advised at your clinic appointment.
Advice for parents-When should I be concerned?
If your child has any of the following you may wish to contact the physiotherapy department or GP
- Pins and needles or numbness
- Changes in skin colour
- Pain, poor movement or swelling that is not getting better after 8 weeks
Stand with your elbow bent and the palm of your hand
facing up. Turn your palm to face downwards and then turn it back upwards.
Repeat 10 times.
Bend your elbow and then straighten your elbow.
Repeat 10 times.
Place the palms of your hands together. Bend your wrists
by pressing your hands downwards, hold for 10 seconds,
and then relax.
Repeat 10 times
Place the backs of your hands together. Bend your wrists by bringing your elbows downwards, hold for 10 seconds, and then relax.
Repeat 10 times.
You can also hold putty / play dough/ stress ball in your hand. Squeeze all your fingers into the putty and work at strengthening your grip.
Further advice
If your symptoms are not improving, please attend your GP for further assessment or complete a Physiotherapy Request for Assistance form on our website on NHS Fife at www.nhsfife.org or email us on Fife.paedsphysioreferrals@nhs.scot
Accessible formats
If you require this information in a community language or alternative format such as Braille, audio, large print, BSL, or Easy Read, please contact the Equality and Human Rights Team at: email: fife.EqualityandHumanRights@nhs.scot or phone 01592 729130. For people with a hearing or verbal impairment you can also contact the team through the NHS Fife SMS text service number on 07805800005.
