After you sustain a fracture, an orthopedic surgeon places a cast on the bone to keep it steady and facilitate the healing process. During this period, you must adhere to a few guidelines to protect the area. In addition to following the directions provided by your physician, follow these tips to ensure a smooth treatment.

Do:

Monitor its condition.

Let your medical provider know if the cast or the affected area changes. If you notice an unpleasant odor, for example, your orthopedic surgeon should take a look to rule out infections. Any burning or swelling in the area could also require further treatment or medication.

Wait before you walk.

If you have a walking cast, it should be dry and stable before you place it on the floor. Fiberglass varieties need approximately 1 hour to stabilize, while plaster casts may take up to three days.

Follow your provider’s directions after placement to ensure proper curing. This might involve using crutches while the products harden.

Don’t:

Apply anything to skin.

Itchiness is common, especially as the skin heals. You might be tempted to scratch, but avoid using objects to reach under the cast. Objects can tear the cast, hurt your skin, or slow the healing process.

Your orthopedic surgeon may also advise against topical treatments, like lotions and creams. Excess moisture can invite bacteria.

Get it wet.

Casts made with plaster can lose their integrity when exposed to moisture. While fiberglass is resistant to liquids, the layer of padding under it is also vulnerable to water damage.

Cover the cast with a plastic bag before showering or heading outside on rainy days.

The orthopedic surgeons at Independence Healthcare, PC serve those in Soldotna, AK. The clinic provides a variety of orthopedic services, including radiology and fracture treatment. They carry a full line of prefabricated braces, crutches, and other durable medical goods to help your healing process. Visit their website to find out more about their work, or call (907) 262-6454 to schedule an appointment.