Dorsal angulation, radial angulation and axial compression were measured digitally on all radiographs (Fig. 2a–c). For this purpose, a digital radiographic system (AGFA Web 1000) was used with software that calculated angulations and distances after defining joint lines and long bone axes. All radiographs at 10 days were taken with the plaster cast still on, whereas all radiographs at 1 month were taken without the plaster cast. The radiographs were therefore blinded for treatment.