Casts and splints support broken bones or injured extremities. These devices hold the extremity in place while the bone or tissue heals. They are applied after injury or after surgery.

Materials

Usually these devices are made out of fiberglass or plaster that form the hard, supportive outer layer of the device. Fiberglass is usually lighter and stronger than plaster. Plaster is cheaper and molds better to hold the bone in place.

Application

When casts and splints are placed, padding is used to protect the skin. Multiple layers are used to prevent pressure spots or ulcers from developing. These layers are usually made of cotton or other soft material.

Swelling

After and injury or surgery the extremity swells and increases in size. If you have a cast or splint on, it will cause pressure and discomfort. Decreasing the swelling will assist with pain and discomfort. The following can be down to assist with reducing swelling:

• Elevation: It is important to elevate the injured arm or leg above your heart to decrease the amount of swelling in the injured area. This is very important for the first 48-72 hours.

• Movement: Moving of the toes and fingers will assist with pushing the swelling back towards the heart. It will also prevent your fingers and toes from getting too stiff.

• Ice: Placing ice over the injured area will decrease inflammation and assist with swelling. Make sure that the ice does not contact the skin directly. You should ice on and off every 20-30 minutes.

Warning Signs

Swelling can create pressure under your cast. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor's office immediately for advice.

• Increased pain and the feeling that the splint or cast is too tight. This may be caused by swelling.

• Numbness and tingling in your hand or foot. This may be caused by too much pressure on the nerves.

• Burning and stinging. This may be caused by too much pressure on the skin.

• Excessive swelling below the cast. This may mean the cast is slowing your blood circulation.

• Loss of active movement of toes or fingers. This requires an urgent evaluation by your doctor.

Cast Care

You must keep your cast or splint in good condition as this will help your healing and recovery.

• Keep your cast dry. Do NOT get it wet. This can weaken the cast and cause severe skin irritation and breakdown. You should cover the cast with plastic to shower. Cast covers can be purchased online to protect the cast during a shower or bath.

• Keep your cast clean. Stay away from dirt, dust, sand, and any other small loose objects as these may get in the cast and cause skin irritation and breakdown.

• Do NOT stick items down the cast to scratch your skin. Items can break or get lost and cause irritation and possible infection.