How Do You Care For A Cast?
Broken bones are a common problem managed by orthopedic surgeons. Caring properly for a cast is an important part of the healing process.Difficulty: AverageTime Required: noneHere’s How: • Keep the cast dry. Keep the cast (and most importantly the cotton wrap around the injury) dry at all times. If you want to wash, carefully wrap the cast in plastic and protect the cast from any water. • Don’t stick sticks under the cast. Try to keep objects out from under the cast. Especially avoid the urge to stick coat hangers under the cast–this can cause damage to both your skin and the cast material. • Trim rough edges. Rough edges of the cast can be trimmed with an emery board. Do not cut the cast with scissors or attempt to break off rough edges. • Relieve itching the right way. To relieve itching under the cast, try pointing a hairdryer on a cool-air setting down the cast. This usually helps to relieve these symptoms. Over-the-counter medications such as Benadryl can be helpful. • Watch the
