Getting a cast
cast · plaster cast · fiberglass cast · half cast
A plaster or fiberglass cast is put on your arm or leg. It holds the bone or ligaments still while they heal.
For fractures, hairline cracks, bad sprains and torn ligaments, or after some surgeries.
⏱ Duration: putting it on usually takes 15 to 30 minutes; you usually wear it for several weeks, as your doctor says
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Clothing. Loose clothes that will fit over the arm or leg in a cast.
- Jewelry. Take rings and bracelets off the injured arm. It may swell.
What to bring
- Your documents
- X-rays, if they were taken elsewhere
- Wide trousers or a loose sleeve
How it goes
- Usually an X-ray is done first
- The doctor puts the bone or joint in the right position
- The skin is covered with a soft sleeve and a layer of padding
- Wet plaster or fiberglass bandages are wrapped on
- The cast is smoothed to the shape of your arm or leg
- The cast slowly hardens
- A follow-up X-ray is often done
What you'll feel
- Warmth as the cast sets. This is normal
- Heaviness and stiffness
- The injury may ache for the first few days
Afterwards
- For the first 1 to 2 days, keep the arm or leg raised. This reduces swelling
- Keep the cast dry: cover it with a plastic bag when washing
- Do not push anything under the cast, even if it itches
- Wiggle your fingers or toes, if you can
- Go for a checkup and X-ray when your doctor tells you
Contact a doctor straight away if
- Fingers or toes turn blue, white, cold, or numb: see a doctor right away or call emergency services
- Severe pain that keeps getting worse, or the cast presses too hard
- A bad smell, burning, or wetness under the cast
- Pain and swelling in the calf: see a doctor right away
Common questions
What can I do if it itches under the cast?
Do not push anything inside. You can blow cool air in with a hair dryer.
Can I stand on a leg in a cast?
Only if your doctor allows. Usually you use crutches at first.