How to Fight Arm Pain After a Break

Pain of a broken arm may depend on the type of break you have sustained. Certain breaks cause tissue damage due to penetration of the bone through the skin. These breaks are called compound fractures and may require more aggressive pain management. A comminuted fracture is a fracture where the broken has been broken into pieces and may also require aggressive pain management. There are steps you can take to fight arm pain after a break.

Things You'll Need

• Medical examination
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Prescription medication
• Physical therapy program

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Instructions

• 1

  See your doctor. Your doctor will need to evaluate your broken arm and take x-rays to determine the extent of your break and the type of pain management program that is appropriate for you.

• 2

  Take an anti-inflammatory medication. Ask your doctor if taking an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication is appropriate for your arm pain. This medication will reduce swelling from the break and relieve pain.

• 3

  Ask about prescription pain medication. You may need prescription pain relievers for a few days to fight your arm pain after a break. Ask your doctor to prescribe pain medication if your pain is severe. Only take them as ordered and only when your pain cannot be managed by other means. Narcotic pain medications have side effects such as drowsiness and confusion, so never drive when taking them.

• 4

  Inquire about physical therapy. Exercises provided by a physical therapist can strengthen surrounding arm structures and ease your pain. Alternating ice and heat treatments provided by the therapist may also minimize your pain.

• 5

  Get more rest. Breaking your arm is a traumatic event and you will need to rest. Resting your arm and limiting movement will relieve the pain and promote relaxation.