General cast care instructions

Do:

• Follow your doctor’s instructions with regard to limiting your activity.
• Keep your cast clean and dry.
• Inspect the skin condition around the cast area.
• File down any rough spots on the cast with an emery board or place moleskin as needed.

Do not:

• Insert objects inside the cast.
• Use oils or oil-based lotions on or around the cast.
• Pull out or rearrange the cast padding.
• Place additional padding inside the cast.
• Break off or trim cast edges.
• Engage in vigorous activity involving the cast area.

Contact the clinic if:

• You have increased pain or swelling.
• If you notice cold blue fingers or toes.
• You notice an unusual odor coming from the cast.
• You feel a burning pain developing in the cast.
• You experience numbness or persistent tingling.
• Your cast breaks, cracks, or develops soft spots.
• Your cast becomes loose.
• You develop skin problems at the cast edges.
• You develop a fever.
• You have any questions regarding your treatment.

Note: This is a guide only. Special instructions may be given to you by our staff. Specific timing of cast changes varies and will be arranged by your physician.