Arm Fractures: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Arm Fractures?
An orthopedic surgeon, a doctor who treats bone and joint problems, usually provides care for a broken arm. An emergency room doctor may give the first care, such as a splint. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
A fracture is a broken bone, the same as a crack or a break. The forearm is made up of two bones, the radius and the ulna. In most adult forearm fractures, both bones are broken. The care described here covers broken forearm bones in adults and general broken-bone care. It does not cover breaks of the upper arm bone.
Why a doctor might recommend it
If the bones heal out of line, you may have trouble moving the wrist and elbow or turning the forearm. Most adult forearm fractures need surgery to keep the bones steady and lined up.
How to prepare
Common first aid and preparation steps include the following.
- Use a splint or sling to hold the broken bone still.
- Use ice packs and raise the limb to reduce pain and swelling.
- Do not try to straighten the bone or change its position, unless blood flow seems blocked and no trained medical help is nearby.
- Tell the doctor about any other medical problems, such as diabetes or heart disease.
- Ask your surgeon before taking NSAIDs, a group of pain medicines, because they may reduce the body's ability to heal a fracture.
What happens during it
In the emergency room, the doctor may try to line the bones up for a short time, depending on how far out of place the pieces are. Then the doctor will apply a splint and will often give you a sling.
If only one bone is broken and it is not out of place, a cast or brace may be enough.
When both forearm bones are broken, or a bone has gone through the skin, surgery is often required. The most common surgery uses plates and screws. The doctor first puts the bone pieces back in their normal position. Special screws and metal plates on the outside of the bone then hold the pieces together.
Recovery
Forearm bones typically take 3 to 6 months to fully heal. A more severe injury may take longer. Opioids, strong pain medicines, can be addictive and dangerous, so use them only as your doctor directs. Without surgery, rehabilitation typically begins after a few weeks of keeping the arm still in a cast or brace.
Risks and side effects
There are risks with all surgery, and some risks come from the break itself.
- Infection. Open fractures expose the bone to the outside, and the bone can become infected even with appropriate treatment.
- Compartment syndrome. Swelling can cut off blood supply to the hand and forearm, and it causes severe pain when moving the fingers.
- Stiffness in the elbow or wrist is possible, and some people cannot fully turn the palm up and down.
Compartment syndrome needs emergency surgery once it is diagnosed. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if any of these happen.
- A bone is sticking out through the skin.
- There is severe bleeding.
- The area below the injury is pale, cold, clammy, or blue.
Who performs it
An orthopedic surgeon repairs the bones with surgery when it is needed, and an emergency room doctor may put on the first splint. A physical or occupational therapist may also help you recover.
Common questions
Does a broken forearm always need surgery?
No. If only one forearm bone is broken and it is not out of place, a cast or brace may be possible. Still, most adult forearm fractures do need surgery.
What is an open fracture?
An open fracture is a break where bone pieces stick out through the skin or a wound reaches the broken bone. It needs immediate medical attention because of the risk of infection.
Will my arm be stiff after it heals?
Some stiffness after healing is common, but this does not usually affect how well your arm works overall.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance.
Sources
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons - OrthoInfo - Adult Forearm Fractures
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons - OrthoInfo - Fractures (Broken Bones)
- MedlinePlus - Broken bone
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
