Cast Care
Whether you just sustained a fracture, surgery, or severe sprain keeping good care of your cast is a priority. At Ashford Orthopedics Specialist, our skilled orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist William Ashford, MD crafted a guide for you to have at hand once your cast is set.
How Do I Take Care of My Cast?
- First of all, you should always keep your cast clean and dry.
- When you bathe, cover the cast with a plastic bag or wrap. Some drug stores or medical suppliers have cast covers-plastic bags with Velcro. Do not lower the cast into the water.
- If a fiberglass cast gets wet, dry it completely as fiberglass allows air through it. You can dry it with a hairdryer in a cool setting
- Do not trim the cast or break off any rough edges because this may weaken or break the cast. If a fiberglass cast has a rough edge, use a metal file to smooth it
- If the cast is on the foot or leg, do not walk on or put any weight on the injured leg, unless your doctor allows it.
- If the doctor allows walking on the cast, be sure to wear the cast boot if given one. The boot prevents the cast from wearing out on the bottom and helps people in casts not to fall
Should I Contact My Doctor About My Cast?
You must call your doctor if any of the following happens:
- If the cast becomes very loose as the swelling goes down, especially if the cast is rubbing against the skin.
- If you have trouble getting your cast dry.
- If the cast gets wet enough that the skin under the cast is wet too.
- If mold, mildew, or any other odor comes from the cast.
“Dr Ashford has been great to work with throughout my procedure. My experience has been better than I expected. I am very pleased with Ashford Orthopedics and have and will recommend Dr Ashford for any orthopedic needs.” —Charles R.
What Should I Avoid Doing?
- Do not put anything inside the cast.
- Do not try to scratch the skin under the cast with any sharp objects.
- Do not put any powders or lotions inside the cast.
- Do not lean on or push the cast because it may break.
Additional Advice on Proper Cast Care
If your cast is on the hand, wrist, arm, or elbow, you may need an arm sling for support. You may find it helpful to wrap a towel or cloth around the strap that goes behind the neck, so as to protect the skin on the neck from becoming sore and irritated.
If your cast is on the foot, ankle, or leg, you may need crutches. Make sure they have been adjusted properly before leaving the hospital or the doctor’s office.
Why Is Cast Care Important?
- It prevents skin irritation and infections: Keeping your cast dry and clean helps prevent your skin from getting irritated or even infected. Moisture can lead to skin breakdown and increase the risk of infection.
- It ensures proper healing: A well-maintained cast serves as a way to immobilize the injured area, which is key for proper healing. Any damage to the cast can compromise its ability to keep the bone or joint in the correct position.
- It avoids further complications: Improper cast care can lead to other complications such as pressure sores, swelling and decreased circulation. These issues may delay the healing process and may require medical intervention.
- It makes the experience a little bit more comfortable: Taking care of the cast means that you will be more comfortable on the long run. A damaged or dirty cast can make itch or make you uncomfortable and the recovery period more tedious.
- It prevents odor: Proper hygiene and cast care help to prevent unpleasant odors that would otherwise come from a dirty cast.
If you have any questions about cast care, call Ashford Orthopedic Specialists or book a personalized appointment online today.