How long does it take for the swelling to go down after a broken wrist

  Wrist fractures usually reduce swelling in about a week.  After a wrist fracture there is significant displacement of the fracture site, which irritates the surrounding soft tissues and causes bleeding and exudation from the soft tissues, which is why swelling occurs. If the patient’s injury is not severe, the swelling is mild and may be accompanied by a slight restriction of movement. If the injury is more severe, the swelling will be more pronounced and the wrist joint will be significantly deformed. In this case, the first step is to immediately consult an orthopedic surgeon for a radiograph to clarify the fracture injury. The patient will need to have the fracture repositioned manually and then immobilized in a cast for one month. In the early stage of the injury, ice packs can be applied to reduce local swelling and exudation and help reduce swelling; after 48 hours, hot packs can be applied to improve local blood circulation, and oral medication to promote fracture healing can be taken as prescribed by the doctor, which usually reduces swelling in about a week.  In addition, the patient should elevate the affected wrist within a week after the wrist fracture is repositioned in order to facilitate the local swelling, and avoid eating spicy and irritating food.