Is Your Wrist Injury Getting Better?
Yes, your wrist injury is showing clear signs of improvement based on the clinical indicators you describe—resolution of edema and tenderness at the injury site, restoration of wrist extension strength to hold the middle finger extended, and absence of sensory loss all indicate healing is progressing appropriately at one week post-injury. 1
Key Signs of Improvement You're Demonstrating
Your injury is healing based on these positive indicators:
- Resolution of local inflammation: No more edema or tenderness at the injury site indicates the acute inflammatory phase is resolving 1
- Improved motor function: Your wrist can now hold the middle finger extended when the wrist is extended, whereas previously the middle finger would fall—this demonstrates recovering extensor tendon function 2
- Intact sensation: No sensory loss rules out significant nerve injury, which is a favorable prognostic sign 2
- Reduced need for support: While your forearm still feels heavy without the sling, this is expected at one week and will improve with continued healing 1
What the "Heavy Forearm" Feeling Means
The sensation that your forearm feels heavy without the sling is normal at one week post-injury and does not indicate lack of improvement:
- This represents muscle fatigue and weakness from disuse during immobilization, not ongoing structural damage 1
- The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons emphasizes that early controlled motion prevents stiffness and promotes healing, so gradual weaning from the sling with active exercises is appropriate 1
Critical Next Steps to Optimize Recovery
Begin active finger motion exercises immediately if you haven't already—the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons states that finger stiffness is one of the most functionally disabling complications following wrist injury and can be very difficult to treat after it develops 1. This should start from the first encounter and does not adversely affect an adequately stabilized injury 1.
Immobilization Strategy Going Forward
- Avoid prolonged immobilization beyond what's necessary for your specific injury 1
- The European League Against Rheumatism recommends considering activity modification including avoiding lifting, twisting motions, and forceful gripping until pain-free 1
- Gradually increase wrist use as tolerated while monitoring for return of pain, swelling, or loss of function 1
When to Seek Further Evaluation
If symptoms persist beyond 2 weeks or worsen, the American College of Radiology recommends MRI without IV contrast as the appropriate next imaging study to evaluate for occult fractures, ligament injuries, or soft tissue pathology that may not be visible on initial radiographs 2, 1, 3.
Red Flags Requiring Immediate Re-evaluation
- Return of significant swelling or tenderness 1
- New onset of pain with specific movements (especially ulnar-sided pain with lifting or twisting) 1
- Loss of previously regained function 1
- Development of persistent stiffness despite exercises 4
Common Pitfall to Avoid
Do not allow finger stiffness to develop—this is the single most important preventable complication at this stage 1. Perform full range of motion finger exercises regularly, as this is extremely cost-effective and critical for functional recovery 1.