Adult Skin Problems Slideshow Pictures Gallery of Skin Problems and Image Collection

Medical Author:

Andrew P Baniukiewicz, MD

Coauthor:

Daniel DiSandro, MD

Medical Editor:

Scott H Plantz, MD, FAAEM

Medical Editor:

Francisco Talavera, PharmD, PhD

Medical Editor:

Jerry R. Balentine, DO, FACEP

Jerry R. Balentine, DO, FACEP

Dr. Balentine received his undergraduate degree from McDaniel College in Westminster, Maryland. He attended medical school at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine graduating in1983. He completed his internship at St. Joseph's Hospital in Philadelphia and his Emergency Medicine residency at Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center in the Bronx, where he served as chief resident.

View Full Profile

Next Steps

Follow-up

Most broken arms will not require admission to the hospital. For all other fractures, the treating doctor will suggest you follow up with an orthopedic doctor (bone specialist). At that time, the orthopedist will determine what further care (continued splinting, casting, or surgery) is necessary based on the type of fracture.

Additional follow-up instructions for fractures include the following:

• Wear any support device (splint, sling, or brace, for example) until the doctor sees you for follow-up.
  
  
• Keep your splint or cast clean and dry.
  
  
• Apply ice to the injured area for 20-30 minutes 4-5 times a day.
  
  
• Keep your arm elevated above the heart as much as possible to decrease swelling. Use pillows to prop your arm while in bed or sitting in a chair.
  
  
• Take pain medicine as prescribed. Do not drink or drive if you are taking narcotic pain medication.
  
  
• Call your doctor for increased pain, loss of sensation, or if your fingers or hand turn cold or blue.