Home care for an arm injury includes:
- Perform wound care as directed by your doctor.
- Clean the skin gently:
- Use mild soap and water.
- Do not scrub the skin.
- Dry the skin.
- Apply an antibiotic ointment.
- Apply a cold compress:
- Wrap ice in a moist hand towel. Do not apply ice directly to the skin.
- Apply for 20-30 minutes, every 1-2 hours, for the first few days.
- With some arm injuries you may wish to wear a sling for comfort
- Shoulder injuries may require more aggressive immobilization.
- Do not use your arm until your doctor directs you to do so.
- Follow cast care instructions.
- Follow splint care instructions.
- Elevate your arm:
- Above your heart if possible.
- Acetaminophen for pain
- Ibuprofen for pain
For more information:
