Casts are often an important part of the management of broken bones.
However, problems can arise when wearing a cast.
These issues may go unnoticed and worsen unless you spot the signs and report them to your healthcare provider.
ER Productions / Blend Images / Getty Images
This article looks at some of the potentially serious problems that can occur while wearing a cast.
It also lists the signs and symptoms that warrant an immediate visit to your healthcare provider.
Skin Maceration
One of the most challenging aspects of having a cast is keeping it dry.
Skin maceration can cause itchiness as well as the development of sores and cracks.
This, in turn, can lead to skin infections.
Signs of infectionwarrant immediate care.
They are triggered by sustained pressure on the skin, often when a cast is poorly fitted.
There may also be a visible spot on the cast as the drainage or bleeding seeps through.
If you suspect that you have a pressure sore under your cast, see your healthcare provider.
The cast may need to be loosened or replaced.
Compartment Syndrome
A rare but more serious cast-related complication is compartment syndrome.
They can be avoided by replacing the cast if it gets damaged or is too tight.
No matter how annoying they become, never attempt to remove a cast on your own.
This is true even if a cast is scheduled to be removed.
Orthopedistsremove casts with saws specially designed to avoid harming underlying tissues.
Attempting to remove a cast with other tools can be dangerous and cause serious injury.
If you feel that your cast needs to be removed for any reason, call your healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
To make yourself more comfortable, elevate the cast above your heart with pillows.
Elevating the cast helps to reduce swelling and pain.
you might use more pillows to prevent excessive movement of the affected limb.
National Library of Medicine.
MedlinePlus.Closed reduction of a fractured bone - aftercare.
Boyd AS, Benjamin HJ, Asplund C.Principles of casting and splinting.Am Fam Physician.
2009 Jan 1;79(1):16-22.
National Library of Medicine.
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.Compartment syndrome.
