Hip Spica Cast for Femur Fracture: What to Know

A hip spica extends around the body and down the affected leg, limiting movement at the hip and thigh. It may be applied after the bone is gently realigned with a closed reduction, or as part of a broader fracture plan. The exact position and duration depend on the fracture, age, healing progress, and follow-up images.

The cast may be made from plaster of Paris or fibreglass cast material. It must remain dry and intact unless the treating team gives different instructions. The opening around the abdomen and perineum allows hygiene and toileting, but it still needs regular checks for rubbing, moisture, and soiling.

Check the toes regularly for colour, warmth, movement, and sensation. Keep bedding and clothing loose enough to avoid pressure, and use approved methods for toileting and cleaning. Never push objects inside the cast to scratch, and do not trim or pad it without instructions.

Keep the cast supported during transfers and use the positioning plan provided by the team. Follow restrictions on standing or walking. Once the cast is removed, physiotherapy may help restore movement, strength, and confidence; the pace should follow healing and clinician guidance.

Seek urgent help if toes become blue, pale, cold, very swollen, numb, or difficult to move; if pain is severe and not settling; or if the cast cracks, becomes tight, gets soaked, or develops a sharp edge. Contact the care team for fever, foul odour, drainage, increasing skin pain, or difficulty passing urine or stool.

Ask how to lift and turn safely, how to manage bathing and toileting, which cast changes are urgent, when follow-up imaging is due, and what activity is permitted during healing.