When people break bones, often surgery isn’t needed to repair them. Instead, the doctor can realign the bones and set them in place with a cast to heal correctly. 

This procedure is called closed reduction and casting, and it’s one of the most common treatment methods for broken bones. 

Closed Reduction

Closed reduction is the procedure in which the doctor realigns broken bones without the use of surgery. Usually, this means applying force to the bone in the opposite way in which you broke it. Because this is a painful procedure, the patient is often given painkillers or even local anesthesia. The reduction will provide relief from soft tissue damage and reduce the inflammatory response, making it easier for the injury to heal. It should eventually reduce the pain, as well. 

Casting

After the bone is realigned, it must be made immobile to heal correctly. If possible, the limb or injured area is put into a cast, splint, or brace to keep the bone in place. This allows the bone to heal together correctly. 

The length of time in a cast can vary depending on the severity of the injury, but the average time in a cast is 4-6 weeks. You may need physical therapy once the cast is off to rebuild the muscle, reduce stiffness and return full mobility to the injured area.