What should you know about fiber cast for fracture?

A fibreglass cast is a hard outer shell placed over padding to limit movement around a fracture. It is commonly moulded after the bone has been positioned, sometimes following a closed reduction. The padding protects skin and leaves room for normal swelling. A cast may be used for an ankle fracture or a distal radius fracture, depending on alignment and stability. Fibre material is lighter and more resistant to everyday knocks than plaster, but the choice depends on the injury and the clinician's plan.

Keep the limb elevated when swelling is present, move free fingers or toes regularly, and follow weight-bearing instructions exactly. Never insert objects under the cast to scratch, trim its edges, or remove it yourself. Protect it during washing and check the skin around its edges. Keep follow-up appointments so alignment, swelling, and healing can be reviewed. Rehabilitation may be advised after removal to restore movement and strength.

Contact urgent care for increasing pain or tightness, numbness, new weakness, blue or unusually pale fingers or toes, severe swelling, a broken or wet cast, foul odour, drainage, or fever with worsening wound pain. Seek immediate help if the limb becomes cold or you cannot move the exposed digits.

Ask how much weight the cast can take, whether it may get wet, how long it is expected to stay on, which symptoms require an urgent review, and whether a reduction or fixation procedure is needed.