What do we do if the cast does get wet?
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If the cast gets a little bit wet, dry as much as possible with a hair dryer on the cool setting.
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If the cast gets soaked, the skin under the cast might break down. The cast must be taken
off and a new one put on. If you not sure if the cast is wet, it is best to call your doctor.
Cast Tips
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You can buy a cast bag from a pharmacy. They will help keep the cast clean and dry, but
these bags won’t keep the cast dry if you swim or bathe with them.
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Have your child move their fingers or toes often to keep them from swelling.
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Never put anything (objects, lotions or powders) inside the cast.
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For small children it is a good idea to cover that cast when the child is eating.
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Don’t pull the padding out of the cast or cut or trim the cast.
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For body casts on small children, put two diapers on to keep the cast from getting soiled.
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If the skin under the cast is itching don’t let your child scratch inside the cast. You can use a
hair dryer on the cool setting or tap gently on the outside of the cast.
When should we call the doctor?
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If there is swelling or pain that doesn’t go away after changing the position and elevating the
body part with cast, splint or brace, above the level of the heart.
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If the cast feels too tight or too loose.
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If any of the skin near the cast is not pink and warm.
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If there is numbness, tingling, or burning in the area of the cast, splint or brace that does not
go away in a few minutes after changing the position and elevating the area.
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If there is a feeling of pressure or pain in the heel .
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If there is a foul smell coming from the area of the cast, splint or brace.
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If something gets caught under the cast and you can’t easily get it out
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If the cast starts to break down or crack.
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If the child has a fever over than 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit.
If your child is having problems with their cast, splint or brace, please call the following
number:
720-777-6600 during normal business hours: Monday through Friday.
720-777-1234 at all other times and ask for the Orthopedic Resident on call.