After falling off a ladder at a construction site, your doctor confirmed you broke your arm. You want to get back to work ASAP, but you must recover first.
Mayo Clinic explains how medical professionals treat broken arm bones. Learn how to help yourself along the road to recovery to protect your rights and build your legal case.
Bone setting
Depending on the break, your doctor may need to reposition the bone into normal alignment. Before moving the fractured bone fragments, you may take a sedative, general anesthetic or muscle relaxant for your inflammation and swelling.
Medication
Even if you do not have a fractured bone, you may still experience pain and inflammation after injuring your arm. Your doctor may prescribe a narcotic medication if you experience unbearable pain. While you can take a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory, ask your doctor first because the medication could hinder healing. Doctors use antibiotics to treat open fractures and prevent infections that may endanger the bone.
Immobilization
You must keep your arm still with a sling, splint or brace to promote healing. It could take five to seven days after your fall before the swelling subsides enough for your physician to feel comfortable immobilizing the affected limb with a cast. While you wait for the inflammation to go down, expect to wear a splint.
Therapy
After you first receive treatment, your doctor may recommend you start rehabilitation sooner rather than later. Rehabilitation helps keep your shoulder, arm and hand from stiffening. Once you no longer need a sling or cast, you may advance to physical therapy or rehabilitation exercises.
You deserve to understand your options for healing after injuring your arm. Armed with facts, you could feel better about your recovery and getting back to work.
