Do’s of Cast Care: Essential Cast Care Tips
#1 Elevate Your Limb to Reduce Swelling
Especially during the first days of having your cast, it’s very important to keep your limb elevated, as it will improve blood circulation and prevent fluid buildup in the injured area during a period in which swelling is very common.
If your limb is raised above the level of your heart, gravity assists in moving those excess fluids away, therefore alleviating discomfort and reducing pressure inside the cast.
Depending on the affected limb, you can use pillows, cushions, or other pieces of furniture to prop up your limb while resting.
#2 Keep Your Cast Dry
One of the first and main recommendations your doctor will give you for your cast is about keeping the moisture away, as it can weaken the material and lead to skin irritation. You can do so by using waterproof covers when showering, and try alternating with other methods such as sponge baths.
#3 Move Your Fingers or Toes
If your fingers and/or toes are not immobilized, make sure you move them regularly to prevent stiffness and improve circulation. Of course, if they were injured, make sure to talk beforehand with your doctor about the best strategies to restore movement.
#4 Keep the Area Clean
Make sure to regularly clean the exposed skin around the cast, as it can tend to get irritated or affected by debris buildup. You can use a damp cloth and mild soap, but be careful not to get water inside the cast.
#5 Monitor for Possible Complications
Last but definitely not least, be aware of your recovery process and check for any warning signs, such as:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Numbness
- Unusual pain
- Weird odors
- Hot or soft spots on the cast
- Excessive and persistent itching
If any of these become present and maintained over the course of a few days, contact your doctor.
Don’ts of Cast Care: Common Mistakes to Avoid
#1 Don’t Stick Objects Inside
Either because of curiosity or intense itching, you might be tempted to stick some kind of long object in your cast. The truth is that pencils, rulers, coat hangers, and similar elements can cause injuries, irritation, and lead to infections.
If you’re suffering from extreme itching, you can contact your medical provider and/or use cool air from a hairdryer or gently tap on the cast.
#2 Don’t Put Weight on It Without Medical Approval
Depending on the type of injury you got, the recovery timeline and guidelines will differ. If you have a cast on your leg and try walking on a non-weight-bearing type, you could actually cause significant damage to your limb.
Wait for your doctor’s instructions and ask about the use of wheel chairs, crutches, and other mobility solutions.
#3 Don’t Expose Your Cast to Extreme Temperatures
Avoid placing your cast near heaters, fireplaces, or even direct sunlight for extended time periods, as high temperatures can weaken it or cause discomfort.
On the other hand, cold weather could make your cast more prone to cracking. Make sure the temperature is stable to ensure its integrity and your comfort.
#4 Don’t Try to Remove or Modify Your Cast
While cutting, trimming, or adjusting your cast at home to improve your comfort might be seen as a good solution, reality is that doing so without medical supervision could lead to complications and delays in your healing process.
If you feel you need an adjustment, make sure to leave it to your specialist.
#5 Don’t Ignore Your Overall Health During Recovery
Cast care sometimes also means general care. Poor nutrition and dehydration can slow your healing process, and, in some cases, staying active within safe limits with gentle exercises or stretches can prevent stiffness and muscle loss.
Make sure to follow your doctor’s guidelines, get enough rest, and get in the way for a healthier recovery.
Cast Care in Georgia
If you have suffered from an accident that resulted in a broken bone and a cast, proper care will be key for a quick and definite recovery.
At Arch Orthopedic & Spine, we are committed to giving you comprehensive treatment that delivers positive results. We will make sure not only to address pain and immobilize the damaged area, but also give you the best tips for healing and taking care of your cast. Call any of our Georgia locations or use our online scheduling tool.
Welcome to Arch Orthopedic & Spine, where we are devoted to keeping you strong, one step at a time.
