If the fracture is identified immediately and is in good alignment, the chances are good the bone will heal. Patients generally wear a cast that covers the forearm, wrist, and thumb for up to twelve weeks. The doctor takes X-rays at least once a month to check the progress of the healing. Once your doctor is sure the fracture has healed, the cast will be removed. Even with this type of treatment, however, there is still a risk that the fracture may not heal well and will become a nonunion.