Caring for your cast
Your doctor has provided you with a cast to treat your injury. Here is some information about how to care for your cast.
What to expect
Fractures can be painful. The pain can be extreme at the beginning but it will ease once the plaster is on and the fractured limb is supported and rested. The pain will settle even further over the next few weeks.
Simple painkillers, such as paracetamol, are often needed.
After the plaster is removed, there may be some stiffness and weakness in the limb. This should improve as you go about your normal activities. The bone will continue to recover, even after the plaster is removed. You need to take extra care and precautions to not reinjure the recovering bone, especially for the next month.
You may feel a lump at the site of the fracture. This is the new bone, which will eventually take on the shape of your original bone.
Caring for the fracture
Frequently move or wiggle the fingers (in the case of an upper limb plaster) or toes (for lower limb plaster). This helps to prevent stiffness and promote circulation.
Keep the plaster raised to prevent swelling, especially for the first 48 hours (eg. use a sling to keep an arm raised or place pillows under your leg).
Caring for the plaster
It is important that you look after your plaster cast.
- Rest for a couple of days after the plaster is applied to allow it to set completely.
- Keep the plaster dry. When having a shower or bath, put a plastic bag over the plaster and seal it with a rubber band. Keep the limb away from water and the rain.
- Do not stick objects down the plaster. This may damage the skin.
- Do not cut or interfere with the cast.
- Do not lift anything or drive until the fracture is healed.
You should see your doctor or go to the nearest hospital emergency department straight away if you have:
- Severe pain despite taking painkillers
- Fingers or toes of the affected limb that go white or blue
- Fingers or toes that won’t move
- Pain on moving your fingers or toes
- Numbness or pins and needles
Follow up
- Your doctor will usually arrange a review appointment to make sure the plaster is fitted correctly.
- If there are any problems with the fracture or the way it is healing, you may be referred to an orthopaedic surgeon (specialist bone doctor). It is important that you keep this appointment and take your X-rays with you.
- On average, a plaster stays on for 6 weeks. This may be longer or shorter, depending on your age, general health and the type of fracture. You may need to see a physiotherapist for exercises to help with muscle strength, joint mobility and balance. These exercises will help you return safely to normal activities.