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Dean Fochios, M.D., P.C.
CAST CARE INSTRUCTIONS

What is a cast?

A cast is a supportive structure that surrounds an injured body part to protect it, keep it from moving, and allow it to heal. Casts are made of fiberglass or plaster. They are most often used for broken bones. They are also used sometimes for torn ligaments or tendons and may be used after surgery.

How long will I need to wear my cast?

How long you wear your cast depends upon your injury. Some injuries heal within a few weeks and some take several months.

Can I get my cast wet?

Most casts should NOT get wet. A plaster cast will fall apart if it gets wet. A fiberglass cast will not fall apart, but the padding underneath may start to smell if it gets wet. Wet padding may also harm your skin.
When you shower or bathe, put your cast in a heavy plastic bag. Hold the bag in place with a rubber band. Even then, try not to get the bag wet. If your cast does get wet, you can dry it with a hair dryer, taking precautions not to burn the skin. Your doctor may give you a special cast and liner that allows you to get the cast wet and even swim.

After my cast is put on, what problems should I watch for?

Your injury may continue to swell. To limit swelling, elevate the injured area at a level above your heart. Signs of problem swelling include:

• Severe or persistent pain

• Pain, tingling or numbness or coldness in the fingers or toes

• Change in color in the fingers or toes, i.e. bluish, red or white

• Inability to move (paralysis) the fingers or toes

Sometimes the body part inside a cast becomes infected. Signs of infection include:

• Drainage from the skin under the cast

• Pain

• Fever

If you experience any of the above symptoms, please contact the office immediately.

How can I prevent swelling?

• Elevate the extremity

• Move the fingers or toes frequently.

How active can I be when I have my cast?

This depends on the type of injury or fracture. Be sure to ask your healthcare provider.  In general, leg casts should not be walked on unless instructed to do so by your physician and only if a walking heel or a cast boot has been applied. The cast does need 48 hours initially to dry sufficiently and should not be walked on during this time.
For arm casts, it is important to move the shoulder frequently to prevent stiffness.  Swelling may occur even after the cast dries, so it is important to hold arm casts above the waist while walking and avoid prolonged walking or standing in leg casts.

General Guidelines:

• The cast requires up to 48 hours to dry, do not bump, lean on or dent the cast during this time.

• DO NOT get the cast wet.

• DO NOT scratch under the cast, this could cause infection.

• DO NOT attempt to trim or remove the cast yourself.