Skip to main contentSkip to main content

Broken arm or wrist

Overview

Open all pages about Broken arm or wrist

Symptoms of a broken arm or wrist include pain, swelling, bruising and loss of movement. It may also change colour or feel numb.

Get medical help if you think you've broken your arm or wrist. While waiting for help, put the arm or wrist in a sling and try not to move it.

You'll need an X-ray to check if you have a broken arm or wrist. If it is broken, you may need a plaster cast or sling to support it.

A broken arm or wrist usually takes 6 to 8 weeks to heal. You'll need to wear a plaster cast and do simple arm and wrist exercises until it heals.

Get medical advice as soon as possible if you think you have broken your arm or wrist. Any possible breaks need to be treated as soon as possible.

Page last reviewed: 26/05/2023
Next review due: 26/05/2026