Caring for a Cast or Splint

After you have adjusted to your splint or cast for a few days, it is important to keep it in good condition. This will help your recovery.

• Keep your splint or cast dry. Moisture weakens plaster and damp padding next to the skin can cause irritation. Use two layers of plastic or purchase waterproof shields to keep your splint or cast dry while you shower or bathe.
• Do not walk on a "walking cast" until it is completely dry and hard. It takes about one hour for fiberglass, and two to three days for plaster to become hard enough to walk on.
• Keep dirt, sand, and powder away from the inside of your splint or cast.
• Do not pull out the padding from your splint or cast.
• Do not stick objects such as coat hangers inside the splint or cast to scratch itching skin. Do not apply powders or deodorants to itching skin.
• If itching persists, contact your doctor.
• Do not break off rough edges of the cast or trim the cast before asking your doctor.
• Inspect the skin around the cast. If your skin becomes red or raw around the cast, contact your doctor.
• Inspect the cast regularly. If it becomes cracked or develops soft spots, contact your doctor's office.

Proper cast removal

Never remove the cast yourself. You may cut your skin or prevent proper healing of your injury. Your doctor will use a cast saw to remove your cast. The saw vibrates, but does not rotate. If the blade of the saw touches the padding inside the hard shell of the cast, the padding will vibrate with the blade and will protect your skin. Cast saws make noise and may feel "hot" from friction, but will not harm you-their "bark is worse than their bite."

Use common sense. You have a serious injury and you must protect your cast from damage so it can protect your injury while it heals. After initial swelling has subsided, proper splint or cast support will usually allow you to continue your daily activities with a minimum of inconvenience.

Take care of your cast and it will take care of you.