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GENERAL:
A cast or
splint helps rest injured bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments
until they heal. The cast or splint may be made of plaster or
fiberglass.
INSTRUCTIONS FOR CAT/SPLINT CARE:
-
Keep the
cast or splint dry. Protect it with a plastic bag while
bathing. Call the office if it gets wet.
-
Do not
poke anything down into the cast or splint, because you may injure
your skin. Relieve itching by placing an ice pack over the
area. Make sure the ice is sealed inside a bag that will not
leak. (Parents: Do not let children play with small
toys that will fit down into the cast.)
-
A cast or
splint will dent easily for the first 1-2 hours; be careful not to
rest it against edges or corners of furniture. Rest the cast
or splint or a pillow. A dent can injure the skin
underneath.
-
Wiggle
your fingers or toes every hour while awake to help prevent
swelling.
-
Do not
wear rings, watches, or bracelets on an injured wrist, arm, or
ankle.
WHEN TO
CALL OUR OFFICE:
-
Severe
pain, especially pain that is getting worse and is not relieved by
pain medication.
-
Numbness,
tingling, or a bluish color in the fingers or toes. If you
have a splint that can be loosened, loosen it and see if the
numbness, tingling, or bluish color goes away after 10-15 minutes.
If you have a cast, elevate the cast above the level of your heart
and see if the problem goes away after 10-15 minutes. If
neither of these solve the problem, call our office.
-
Severe
swelling of the area or a cast that is too tight.
-
Pain or a
burning sensation under one spot of the cast or splint or a sore
under the cast or splint edge.
-
Damage to
the cast or splint.
-
Drainage
or a foul smell coming from the cast.
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