Is fracture casting done with fibreglass cast material?

Fibreglass casting material is applied over protective padding and shaped around the injured limb while it hardens. It creates a firm support that can help hold the area in the position selected by the fracture team. The cast may be a full circular cast or a partial support when swelling is still expected.

The material choice depends on the fracture's location and alignment, the condition of the skin, expected swelling, and whether the limb needs a removable support later. An X-ray or examination may be used to check whether the position remains appropriate.

Keep the cast dry unless the treating team gives different instructions, and never insert objects inside it to scratch. Elevate the limb when advised, move the free fingers or toes gently, and use crutches or a sling only as shown. Do not bear weight until the fracture team says it is allowed.

Check the skin at the cast edges and notice changes in pain, swelling, colour, temperature, or sensation. Keep follow-up appointments because the cast may need adjustment as swelling changes.

Seek urgent assessment for increasing tightness, severe pain, numbness, tingling, pale or blue fingers or toes, inability to move them, a wet or damaged cast, or worsening swelling. Contact the fracture team for bad odour, drainage, fever, or pressure sores at the edges.

Ask why fibreglass is suitable for your fracture, how long it should stay on, whether you may walk or use the limb, how to protect it from water, and when follow-up imaging or cast removal is planned.