Cast Care

Following these precautions will help to assure that you get back to normal as quickly as possible.

• Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully regarding physical activity. Move fingers and toes frequently to reduce swelling and prevent joint stiffness.
• If your doctor fits you with a cast-walking shoe, wear it at all times except when sleeping or showering.
• Avoid bumping or knocking the cast against any hard surface.
• Do not use anything to scratch under the cast. Scratching may break the skin and cause an infection. If itching is a problem, tell your doctor.
• Do not put powder or perfume down your cast.
• Never stuff cotton or toilet tissue under the margins of the cast, since it may fall into the cast or decrease your circulation and cause serious medical problems.
• Never trim or cut down the length of your cast. Do not cut or remove cast padding.
• Contact your doctor if you have any problems with your cast and especially if you experience any of the following signs and symptoms:
  • Pain unrelieved by the medication your doctor has prescribed
  • Cast feels too tight
  • Cast becomes broken or cracked
  • Painful rubbing or pressure develops beneath the cast
  • You experience continued coldness or notice a whitish or bluish discoloration of your casted limb
  • Pain, numbness, or a continued tingling of the casted fingers or toes
  • Do not get the cast wet.

If you have any questions or concerns, please call (361) 576-0633.