GIB plaster of Paris: what to know

Plaster of Paris is applied as wet bandage layers around padding and a limb position chosen by the treating team. It hardens into a firm shell that helps hold bones or joints in a safer alignment. The cast may feel warm while it sets and can feel heavier than some alternatives. It must not be cut, loosened, or reshaped at home. Fracture Casting uses this principle for many injuries, while Clubfoot Casting uses carefully planned serial casts to guide foot position.

Keep the cast dry and do not insert objects to scratch the skin. Follow instructions about weight-bearing, elevation, and exercises for the fingers or toes. Keep the limb raised when swelling is present, particularly soon after application. Check the exposed skin for rubbing, and keep the cast clean without soaking it. Never trim rough edges yourself. A cast can become less supportive if it cracks, softens, or becomes loose, so contact the treating service if its shape changes.

Seek urgent assessment for increasing pain or tightness, persistent numbness or tingling, pale or blue fingers or toes, inability to move them, or swelling that does not improve with elevation. A wet, broken, foul-smelling, or badly rubbing cast also needs review. Fever or drainage from beneath the cast should be reported promptly. Do not wait for the next scheduled appointment if circulation or nerve function seems affected.

When may I put weight through the cast? Which exercises should I do? How should I protect it during washing? What should I do if it becomes wet, cracked, loose, or painful? When will it be checked or removed?