Finger plaster cast: what to know

Casting can limit movement after a fracture, dislocation or significant soft-tissue injury. A clinician may first realign the bone with a closed reduction, then apply fracture casting. Plaster of Paris moulds around the shape as it sets; fibreglass cast material is another option. The cast may include a neighbouring finger or extend toward the hand so the injured area is supported. The fit should be snug, never constricting.

Keep the cast dry and do not insert objects underneath it to scratch. Elevate the hand during the early period if swelling is present, and move joints that the clinician has left free. Do not trim, loosen or repair the cast yourself. Check the exposed fingertip for colour, warmth, sensation and movement. Attend the scheduled review so alignment and healing can be assessed; physiotherapy may help restore movement after immobilisation. Some injuries need fracture fixation surgery instead of, or after, casting.

Contact the treating service promptly for increasing pain, numbness, pins and needles, marked swelling, a cold or pale/blue fingertip, foul odour, wet or cracked plaster, or inability to move an exposed joint. Seek urgent help after a new impact that changes the cast or makes the finger look crooked.

Ask how long the cast is expected to stay, which joints you may move, how to protect it when washing, when imaging or review is due, and what symptoms mean it is too tight.