Forearm fracture

Your child has a broken or fractured forearm. The forearm is the part of the arm between the elbow and the wrist.

Your child may or may not have the bone reduced (realigned, or put back, in the proper position) in the Emergency Department.

Fractured forearm

Your child will need a cast

For the bone to heal, your child will need a cast and may also need a sling. How long your child needs the cast depends on your child's age and rate of healing. Many children wear the cast for four to eight weeks.

The cast should remain dry. Additional care instruction may be given by the hospital staff who examined the arm and put on the cast. Hospital staff will also tell you when to worry and what to look for that might indicate a problem with the cast or arm.

Follow-up appointments at the fracture clinic

Your child should go to the fracture clinic for a follow-up appointment seven to 10 days after the injury. At this appointment, your child will have X-rays to make sure the position of the bones has not changed.

Two weeks after the injury, bring your child back for another X-ray.

Your child's cast will not be changed unless it is absolutely necessary.

Removing the cast at the fracture clinic

Your child will need another appointment after three to four weeks, meaning six to eight weeks after the original injury. At this appointment, your child's cast will be removed and another X-ray will be taken.

At home after the cast is removed

After the cast comes off, your child's skin may be dry and itchy and may look dirty. Use warm water and soap to gently wash the skin and cream to moisturize it.

Exercise makes the arm stronger

When the cast is off, your child can start moving the forearm. At first, the wrist and elbow may be stiff, but movement will get better with time and activity.

Your child's arm may be smaller and feel weaker than the other arm. While the arm is in a cast, the muscles get thin from not being used. The muscles will get bigger and stronger as your child goes back to normal activities.

Avoid contact sports

Your child should avoid high-risk and high-impact activities, such as contact sports, for up to six months after their injury. Talk with your child's health-care team for specific recommendations for your child. Your child will gradually gain confidence in the arm and will return to regular activities.

If you have any concerns, contact your child's health-care provider or the advanced practice nurse (APN) at the fracture clinic.