When you leave the hospital you will be given specific wound-care and discharge instructions for driving, activity level, medication, and any further restrictions necessary. Your healthcare providers will go over any emergency symptoms that may require immediate medical attention.

After returning home, it is normal and expected to have mild to moderate pain in your wrist for several days. This pain can usually be controlled by elevating your wrist above the level of your heart and taking pain medicine.

Your first visit with your doctor will be 7 to 10 days after surgery. At this time, your wrist will be examined and any stitches may be removed.

Once the fracture has healed, your hand, wrist and elbow will likely feel stiff from being held in a secure position for so long. Because of this, physical therapy is often needed to regain your full wrist motion and strength. This therapy can continue for weeks or months depending on your needs.