So, have your arm in a cast for the next 1-2 months and you already feel trapped at home. Although negative thoughts are easy to distract, the most important thing is to think positively. Even if you can no longer do everything you used to do, that doesn't mean you can't have fun! Eventually you will get used to the cast and time will pass unnoticed.
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Method 1 of 3: Entertaining Yourself while Broken Arm
Step 1. Watch television shows and movies
If you're trying to rest and raise your arms, try watching 1-2 seasons of a television show or feature-length film to pass the time. These activities not only help you relax, they are also great for distracting and entertaining yourself.
You can also use sites like Netflix and Hulu as well as various streaming sites to easily watch television shows and movies. Just make sure you get up every now and then to stretch
Step 2. Purchase a Kindle or e-reader
If you don't want to waste time watching television, try reading an e-book. Owning a Kindle or iPad is much easier than holding a real book. You'll be able to access more novels without ever leaving your house.
If you're not sure where to start, try a site like eBooks or Audible. You can also get books directly from Amazon
Step 3. Learn the language and take online courses
If you spend most of your time sitting on the couch, we recommend trying to learn something new! There are many online sites and mobile apps created specifically for learning. For example, Duolingo and Memrise for learning languages, and Khan Academy or Great Courses for general subjects like math, history, or fine arts.
You can also find lectures or TED Talks on YouTube
Step 4. Painting or drawing
This activity can be great and relaxing for all ages. You also don't have to spend money as long as you have a blank sheet of paper and pencil idle. However, if you want to change things up, buy an adult color book.
Some of these books may include markers or paint so you don't have to buy them
Step 5. Write down your experience
Sometimes, expressing feelings, frustrations, and fears can provide a sense of fulfillment. Writing can also distract from the pain in the arm. If you can't write by hand, try typing. You can even write an online journal about your experiences.
For example, you could write an article on how to deal with boredom for another person who has also suffered a broken arm or turn your entire experience into a fictional story
Step 6. Draw on your cast
When you see the cast on someone and the various autographs on it, of course you feel like signing autographs too, right? Luckily, the cast is now on your arm. You can have people sign your cast or draw your own there. You can also write a list of activities and things to remember.
If you're drawing on a cast, get a silver or gold marker because if the color of the cast is dark, you can use a more vivid color
Step 7. Make a list of activities when the cast is removed
This activity is great when you are very sad because of a broken arm. Try to plan what you want to do after the cast comes off. You can even write it down in a small notepad so you can add it if you remember something.
- For example, you can list simple things like clapping your hands or cutting food. You can also write down major activities such as rock climbing, swimming, or handstand.
- Let frustration be your motivation to try new things when your arm heals.
Method 2 of 3: Familiarizing yourself with the cast
Step 1. Play a board game
Urge your family or friends for a game night. There are many board games in various genres. You can play short games like snakes and ladders, or longer games like Monopoly. You can also play cards like Rummy or Uno.
If you don't have a board game, try playing a game for groups from Jackbox like Drawful. You only need a computer or laptop, a television and a smartphone
Step 2. Go watch a movie
If you've been stuck at home for a long time, try going outside and watching a movie. You can do it alone or with friends. This is a great way to feel productive without feeling tired. Try looking for discounted times or movies that are in theaters.
Step 3. Watch a play or musical
Try to find a local theater that has shows. These shows are also usually cheaper than going to a bigger, well-known theater in your city. Try searching the internet for show schedules and selecting what you want to watch.
Step 4. Go to a museum, aquarium, or library
This is a great way to move your body without using your hands too much. You can even enter this public facility for free, depending on the time of day, such as during the day or weekdays. Students are usually also given discounted ticket prices.
For museums and aquariums, there are usually new and special exhibits worth checking out
Step 5. Spend time with friends
If you feel very bored and lonely, ask a friend to accompany you. Even just spending time together can distract you. You can take her out if you feel bored at home. Since your friend has come to help you, he or she will want to go anywhere.
- Try going to your favorite restaurant for dinner. A familiar place will help you feel comfortable even if you're in a cast. Eating out with friends is also great for killing time and not wasting money.
- If the weather permits, also try going for a walk with a friend. You can walk around the neighborhood or to a local park. Friends not only make this activity more fun, but it's also safer in case you need help because of a cast arm.
Method 3 of 3: Recover Smoothly
Step 1. Get a waterproof cast
This type of cast is becoming increasingly popular. Now you can shower as usual, wash your hands, and even swim. This cast gives you more freedom so you don't have to be stuck at home all summer long while suffering from a broken arm.
Step 2. Keep it clean
While it may seem impossible because you're in a cast, you can buy a few things to keep yourself clean. That way, you don't just “bathe the ducks” or annoy family members and friends. So try looking for things like:
- An electric toothbrush, or an “end tuft” brush, makes brushing easier. You can also buy an access flosser so you can floss with one hand.
- Spray deodorant. If you can't fully use your hands, spray deodorants are easier to apply than the swab model. Just make sure you wear it when you're shirtless so you don't get your clothes dirty.
- Dry shampoo. This shampoo is great if you can't fully lift your hand or the cast shouldn't get wet. Just spray and massage into hair roots. Here's a quick way to make your hair look freshly washed, and won't stain your clothes.
- If you can afford it, you can even go to the salon to wash your hair. Some salons offer a discount if you only come to wash your hair.
Step 3. Reset your sleeping habits
One of the most annoying things about wearing a cast is getting into bed. For example, you may find it difficult to turn when you can only use one arm. Keeping the broken arm in one position all night can also be painful.
Try to support your arms with pillows. You can even build a pillow fort to make sure you don't roll over into your arms while sleeping
Step 4. Try a new way of eating
If you don't have someone to help cut the food, you can have a hard time preparing food. So, if you're on your own, you should choose foods that only require a spoon or fork, or are soft enough for both tools to cut.
- You can also use food delivery services such as Go-Food or GrabFood so you only need to wait for the food to come to your house. Most of these foods are already portioned so you don't have to worry about preparing meals.
- If you're in a pinch, try using a pizza cutter instead of a knife.
Step 5. Wear clothes that are easy to wear
It is difficult to attach buttons and zippers with just one hand. While this can be done with time and practice, it's best not to make the injured arm worse in the process.
- Try wearing elasticated pants. You should also wear clothes that the cast can pass through.
- You should also prioritize the arm in the cast so that you don't have to bother taking off the clothes you've already worn if the clothes don't pass through the cast.
Tips
- Enjoy the sympathy that everyone pours out. This luxury is only temporary.
- Take a pain reliever, but make sure you consult a doctor!
- relax; don't stress too much.
- Get plenty of rest.
- You can get plastic tongs to pick up hard-to-reach items.
- You can even use a thin ruler or clothes hanger to scratch the itchy inside of the cast.
Warning
- Don't do anything risky while wearing a cast.
- Before you draw a cast, remember that the image cannot be erased and remains on the cast until it is time to remove it.
