Casts and splints, support and protection for bones
Casts and splints are materials and parts that are designed to support and protect bones, ligaments, tendons and other tissues injured.
They help heal broken bones by keeping their heads together in a similar position as the original. Casts and splints also help to relieve pain, inflammation and prevent worsening of trauma.
What is the difference between a cast and a splint?
Casts are made of fiberglass or plaster. They cover more than the affected area and can be removed only in the doctor’s office. Splint covers only half of the affected area.
The Artel solid all around not injured limb or area, but is supported by an elastic bandage or other materials that maintain fixed positions. Unlike casts, splints can be removed easily and can be adjusted.
Splints can be custom made or plaster or fiber can be made ready. There are lots of shapes and sizes splints for various types of injuries that can be located in various parts of the body.
What happens if the pain gets worse?
Some people may experience mild pain and inflammation if not sufficiently protect and relax the affected area. In order to avoid this will take the following measures:
- Damaged area will be raised above the heart (with the help of pillows, for example)
- Will move fingers or toes while resting
- Will apply ice if necessary, for 15-30 minutes, but without coming into contact with the splint (avoid wetting it) or direct skin long time.
- Will seek medical advice regarding the use of pain medications
When you consult a doctor?
Consult your doctor immediately in any of the following situations:
- Pain worse
- Appear tingling, burning or stinging sensation near the injured
- Circulatory problems (skin, nails, toes become pale, blue or gray, cold to the touch or if there is difficulty moving the fingers)
- Bleeding, pus, odor
- Wetting, loss or breakage mold or splint
Your doctor may consider necessary adjustment, removal or alteration of mold or splint.
A person with a cast or a splint can take a bath or shower?
Yes, but should not wet splint or mold. Casts and splints made of plaster may crack if they get wet. The fiberglass is resistant to water, the water will be absorbed by the mucous and moisture of the splint and can irritate skin or cause an infection
Other useful information
First splints or casts people who have to take care that they are not moved from the position fixed by the doctor for healing to be done properly.
Also:
- Will not stick objects inside the mold or splint
- Shall not apply powders or deodorants inside the mold, if you develop severe itching, contact your doctor.
- Will check every day is the health of the skin (any changes will be reported to the doctor)
How to Remove a cast?
The doctor will cut the outer layer of the mold with a special tool. It is recommended that patients try to do this at home, as it can cause serious damage skin, blood vessels and injured limbs.