My 14 yo son just fractured his wrist. it's a closed fracture of the distal radius. will the cast be a short cast? or cover the whole arm?

Wrist fracture: This depends on the severity and stability of the fracture. If it is a displaced, unstable type fracture that requires a reduction (manipulation to straighten the bone), a long arm cast (above elbow to knuckles) is typically used for immobilization. If the fracture is non-displaced and stable, a short arm cast (below elbow to knuckles) is often acceptable.