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    After wrist cast

    3 exercises

    Before You Start

    Who is this guide for?

    Children who had wrist/hand cast removed. Recovery of mobility and strength is progressive.

    What you need

    Clear floor space, mat or soft surface, comfortable clothing. Some exercises may require resistance bands or supports.

    Suggested frequency

    Multiple times daily (4-6 times), few minutes per session. Frequency more important than duration.

    Common mistakes to avoid

    • Performing exercises too quickly without control
    • Pushing beyond the pain threshold
    • Skipping days or doing occasional very long sessions
    • Not warming up before strengthening exercises

    ⚠️ Red flags — when to stop and contact the doctor immediately

    Stop exercises immediately and contact the specialist if any of the following occur:

    • Acute or sudden pain during exercise
    • Significant swelling after exercises
    • Pain that progressively worsens over days
    • Fever or general malaise
    • Difficulty walking or using the limb after exercises
    • Any neurological symptoms (tingling, numbness, sudden weakness)
    In case of doubt, always prefer a check-up over continuing exercises.

    Detailed Exercises

    • 1

      Wrist and finger mobility recovery

      After immobilization, wrist and fingers are stiff

      Illustration: Wrist and finger mobility recovery

      Perform all movements SLOWLY and PAIN-FREE. WRIST: flexion (bend forward), extension (bend back), radial/ulnar deviation (bend sideways), full circles. FINGERS: completely open and close hand, touch thumb to each finger. Start with small movements and gradually increase.

      10 reps per movement, 3-4 times daily
    • 2

      Forearm stretch (flexors/extensors)

      Forearm muscles shorten during immobilization

      Illustration: Forearm stretch (flexors/extensors)

      FLEXORS (inner forearm): arm straight forward, palm up. With other hand, gently pull fingers downward. EXTENSORS (outer forearm): arm straight, palm down. Gently pull fingers toward body. Both stretches should be gentle, pain-free.

      3 × 20-30 seconds each direction, twice daily
    • 3

      Progressive strengthening

      Gradually recover hand and forearm strength

      Illustration: Progressive strengthening

      STRESS BALL: squeeze 5 seconds, relax. Start with soft ball, progress to harder. BAND: wrist movements (up/down, lateral) against light resistance. Progress increasing resistance ONLY when movement is complete and pain-free.

      3 × 15 reps per exercise, 1-2 times daily