Cast Care the Right Way

Casts are individualized to adjust to each patient’s physiognomy and you can find two types:

• Plaster. Plaster casts are the choice sometimes because they are easier to mold and adapt.
• Fiberglass. Fiberglass casts are typically lighter and more durable than those made of plaster. What’s more, X-rays penetrate fiberglass casts better as well— making it therefore easier for your doctor to examine the bones while wearing the cast.

Your mobility will be restricted while you are wearing your cast and you might also feel swelling and itching. Your doctor will explain what to do to make sure your bones heal properly, which includes the information detailed below. Good cast care is essential for you to make the best possible recovery within the estimated timeframe. 

Step-by-step instructions

• Keep Moisture Away
• About Walking
• I Got Dirt / Sand in, What Do I Do?
• Padding
• Cast Care Don’t: Scratching
• Trimming
• Damage

Related content: Understanding Hardware Removal Recovery

#1 Keep Moisture Away

It is crucial that you keep your cast dry. Moisture debilitates plaster, and if there is damp padding next to the skin, it can cause irritation. Keeping your cast dry while showering or taking a bath can be tricky, which is why you should wrap the area with two layers of plastic or get waterproof shields to prevent water from coming in. It is important to note that while those measures can help keep water away, you shouldn’t submerge the cast or put it under running water. 

#2 About Walking

If you are wearing a cast on your legs, it is not until the cast is completely dry and hard that you should walk. For fiberglass casts, it usually takes about an hour, and it takes around 2 to 3 days for plaster to become hard enough to walk on. You will be provided with a cast shoe to wear over your walking cast, which will help protect its bottom.

#3 I Got Dirt / Sand in, What Do I Do?

Accidents happen, and sometimes dirt, sand, or other debris can find its way into your cast. While it may seem harmless at first, foreign particles can cause irritation, skin damage, or even infections if left unattended. Here’s what you should do:

• Avoid digging inside: Resist the urge to stick objects or fingers inside your cast to remove the debris. This can damage the cast or scratch your skin, increasing the risk of infection.
• Gently shake it out: If possible, carefully position your cast so the open ends face downward and gently shake it. This may help some of the debris work its way out naturally.
• Use cool air: A hairdryer set to the cool setting can help blow out any loose particles. Never use warm or hot air, as this can cause discomfort or soften certain types of casts.
• Contact your doctor: If the debris remains stuck or starts causing discomfort, redness, or swelling, call your doctor. They may need to assess the situation and possibly adjust or replace your cast.

#4 Padding

Both fiberglass and plaster splints and casts use padding, usually cotton, as a protective layer next to the skin. Pulling out the padding from your splint or cast is a definite no-no.

#5 Cast Care Don’t: Scratching

Itching is common when wearing a cast, and it may happen due to a number of reasons:

• When the cast hardens and starts to dry, the nerve endings in the skin can fire, sending signals to the brain that cause itching.
• Trapped moisture fosters the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive and multiply, which can cause skin irritation.
• The body may release histamines as a response to the cast being recognized as foreign invader, they can cause itching, redness, and swelling.
• While wearing the cast, dead skin cells shed and they can get trapped against the cast and cause itching.

However urgent the need to scratch may be, you should not stick sharp objects inside the cast, as it may badly irritate your skin. It is also advisable that you do not apply powders or deodorants to itching skin inside the splint or cast. 

#6 Trimming

It might be tempting to trim or alter your cast, especially if it’s causing discomfort or feels too tight. However, cutting, trimming, or modifying your cast without medical guidance can lead to serious problems, including compromising your healing process. When it comes to cast care, leave any modifications to the professionals. Your cast is a vital part of your recovery, and proper maintenance will ensure it does its job effectively.

#7 Inspect for Damage 

Inspect the cast regularly to make sure there are not any issues that need to be addressed.

• If the itching continues
• If anything gets stuck inside your cast
• If your skin becomes red or raw
• If there is a crack on the cast becomes or it develops soft spots

Injured your knee or your arm? At Ashford Orthopedic Specialists, Dr. Ashford and the team will assess your injury and recommend the best course of action based on your specific needs.