Contents
How to Care for Your Cast: Tips for a Smooth Recovery
Published: Mar 17, 2024
Navigating life with a cast can be tricky, but with the right know-how, you can avoid common pitfalls. This guide will help you care for your cast properly.
Keeping Your Cast Dry
Moisture can weaken your cast, leading to discomfort and skin issues. Use two plastic bags to cover the cast while bathing, sealing them with duct tape to prevent leaks. Consider synthetic waterproof liners for added convenience.
Checking for Tightness or Looseness
A cast that's too tight can cause serious complications. Check for swelling, pain, or numbness and contact your doctor immediately if these occur. If the cast becomes loose, it might not provide adequate support, so have it checked by a medical professional.
Managing Itchiness
Itchy skin under a cast is common but avoid sticking objects inside. Instead, try blowing cool air from a hairdryer set on cool. If itching persists, consult your doctor for safe remedies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Use plastic bags and seal with duct tape.
Seek medical help immediately.
No, use a hairdryer on cool instead.
Get it checked by a doctor.
Cast Confidence
Could these simple tips make your cast experience more comfortable?
References
- McDowell M, Nguyen S, Schlechter J. A Comparison of Various Contemporary Methods to Prevent a Wet Cast. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2014; 96:e99.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Appointments available 24/7
Top licensed doctors
Available in all 50 states
Full service care
Prescriptions, referrals & treatment
No insurance needed
All notes available in Doctronic
15-min consultation. No hidden costs.
AI Doctor Visit Required
Please Chat With Our AI Doctor First
Our AI doctor assessment helps our human doctors prepare for your video visit and provide better care
For safety reasons we have been forced to end this consultation.
If you believe this is a medical emergency please call 911 or your local emergency services immediately.
If you are experiencing emotional distress, please call the the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or your local crisis services immediately.
Contact us
You can also email us at help@doctronic.ai
We aim to reply within 5-7 days
How likely are you to recommend Doctronic to friends or family?