How should I care for my plaster cast?
A plaster cast is made of a bandage and a hard covering (usually plaster of paris). It helps broken bones in the arm or leg heal by holding them in place. You will need to keep the cast on for 4 to 12 weeks, depending on your injury.
Taking good care of your cast is important for a smooth recovery.
Tips for cast care
- Keep your limb elevated (raised up): for the first few days, rest your arm or leg on a pillow. This helps reduce swelling and allows the cast to dry properly.
- Avoid getting your cast wet: wetting your cast can weaken it and stop it from properly supporting your bone.
- Waterproof protectors: talk to your healthcare provider about using waterproof covers if needed.
- Itchy skin: if your skin gets itchy under the cast, do not try to scratch it with objects, as this can cause sores. The itchiness should go away after a few days.
- Exercise your joints: move any joints not covered by the cast (like your elbow, knee, fingers, or toes) to help improve circulation.
- Avoid irritants: keep small objects, powders, and sprays away from your cast to prevent skin irritation.
- Do not adjust the cast: never try to change the length or position of your cast.
- Limit activities: do not lift heavy objects or drive until the cast is removed.
- Use crutches or a sling: if advised by your healthcare provider, use crutches or a sling.
- Manage pain: consider using painkillers if you experience discomfort.
When to seek help
Go to your local A&E if you notice any of these problems:
- The cast still feels too tight after you have kept it elevated for 24 hours.
- Your fingers or toes on the affected limb are swollen, tingly, painful (even after taking painkillers), or numb.
- Your fingers or toes turn blue or white.
- Your cast feels loose.
- Your cast is broken or cracked.
- The skin under or around the edge of the cast feels sore.
- There is an unpleasant smell or discharge from the cast.
Be aware
Because you are keeping your leg immobile (still), you are at risk of a blood clot (DVT). To reduce this risk, elevate (raise) your leg and do any recommended exercises.
If your injury puts you at a higher risk for a blood clot (DVT), your healthcare provider will discuss this with you and explain the steps to manage it.
General support
For general medical advice please use the NHS website, the NHS 111 service, walk-in-centres, or your GP.
NHS website provides online health information and guidance
There are walk-in and urgent treatment services at Brighton Station, Crawley Urgent Treatment Centre, Lewes Victoria Hospital, Horsham Minor Injuries Unit and Bognor Regis War Memorial Hospital.
The information in this leaflet is for guidance purposes only and is in no way
intended to replace professional clinical advice by a qualified practitioner.
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