Your orthopedic doctor has assessed your injury and decided that a cast is the best treatment option…now what? Casts are used to protect and immobilize bones and joints in order to support injured limbs while they heal. Although casts can feel awkward at first, they play a big role in how fast your injury can heal. Here’s what to expect from your time spent in a cast.
BEFORE
If your injury is suspected to be a break or fracture, your doctor will usually order an x-ray to confirm the injury and determine the exact type and location of the injury. On some occasions, splints will be worn for a few days before the cast to reduce swelling, ensuring that your cast will provide the best fit. Splints are usually held in place by fabric fasteners, Velcro, or tape.
DURING
When it’s time to get your cast put on, you’ll be taken to our cast room where an orthopedic technician will put on the cast for you. Your cast will be made in four parts:
Stockinette – a soft sock will be placed on your limb first to help with itching and keep your cast smooth and edge-free.
Cotton Wrap – a cotton wrap will be placed over the sock to help with padding.
Casting Material – a casting material containing fiberglass is applied next. Once the material has been properly wrapped, the technician will need to mold the cast to your limb to ensure it has the best functionality and heals your limb correctly. You also get to choose a color for your cast.
AFTER
It’s extremely important to keep your cast in good shape so it can do its job and your bones can heal properly. The way you treat your cast can play a big role in how quickly you heal. By following the cast care tips below, you can make this phase a little more pleasant.
Keep your cast dry. All casts are made primarily of plaster or fiberglass. A wet cast will become soft, and may not hold your limb in place. It can also cause infections and/or rashes. Bathe as directed by your physician and keep your cast out of the water. Covering your cast with plastic can help. If your cast gets damp, pat it dry with a towel. A hairdryer on the cool setting can also do the trick!
Keep foreign objects out. Never slide anything inside the cast or put lotions/powders inside the cast. To relieve itching, try raising the cast or changing positions. Air from a blow dryer on the cool setting also works.
Don’t alter the cast. Keeping your cast in good shape will ensure your cast does the best job possible at healing your bones. Do not cut the cast or pull it apart. Allowing friends and family to sign or decorate is okay!
Elevate and wiggle. Elevate the cast above your heart whenever possible to reduce swelling and help your injury heal. Wiggle your fingers or toes as much as you can to help with circulation.
CAST CAUTION SIGNS
Be sure to see your doctor if you develop any of the following symptoms:
Pain or swelling, or inability to wiggle your fingers or toes.
Your fingers or toes change color or tingle.
The cast is too tight or loose, or has something stuck inside of it.
Your cast becomes wet, cracked, dented, or has soft spots.
You get a rash or chafing on the skin around the edge of your cast.
You get a bad odor or itching that will not go away.
