Cast Care
Casting is an important part of medical care for many patients, as it can help to immobilize injured or broken bones and ensure proper healing. Proper cast care is essential for a successful recovery.
Following these instructions will help to assure that you heal and recover 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
- • The cast feels too tight
- • The 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.