What should you know about fracture cast care?

A cast holds an injured bone or joint in a protected position while healing progresses. Plaster of Paris and fibreglass cast material behave differently while being fitted, but both need protection from moisture, impact, and pressure. Swelling can make a new cast feel tighter, particularly after an ankle fracture or distal radius fracture. Itching is common, but inserting objects underneath can injure skin and create infection risk.

Keep the cast dry during bathing and do not trim, crack, or pad it yourself. Elevate the limb when swollen, move the fingers or toes that remain free if instructed, and use crutches or a sling exactly as advised. Keep the cast clean and check exposed skin for rubbing. Attend scheduled reviews; the cast may need adjustment as swelling changes. Physiotherapy may begin after removal or earlier when the clinician permits movement.

Seek urgent care for increasing pain that does not settle with the prescribed plan, numbness, tingling, pale or blue fingers or toes, inability to move them, severe swelling, a wet or broken cast, foul odour, drainage, fever, or new calf pain and breathlessness. Do not wait for a routine appointment if the limb feels trapped or circulation seems reduced.

Ask how much weight or use is allowed, how to protect the cast while bathing, which joints to move, and which symptoms mean it needs urgent review. Ask when repeat imaging, cast removal, or rehabilitation is expected.