A cast holds a fracture in the limb (arm or leg) in the correct position, preventing movement and thereby reducing pain.
To reduce swelling while the limb is in a cast, it's important to elevate the limb as much as possible. For the arm, it should be supported by a sling during the day and placed on a pillow at night. For the leg, it should be elevated on a pillow for at least three days after the cast is applied. Additionally, moving the fingers or toes as much as possible helps to prevent swelling and stiffness.
During showering, the casted limb should be wrapped in a plastic bag to avoid getting it wet.
Danger signs for the limb that require immediate referral to the emergency room include:
- Severe pain with no improvement after pain relief (e.g., acetaminophen).
- Swelling in the exposed area (fingers, sole of the foot, palm of the hand).
- Changes in sensation in the fingers or toes, such as numbness, tingling, or discolored fingers.
- Decreased temperature in the fingers or toes.
- Change in color of the casted limb.
If any negative changes in your condition occur, seek further medical advice without delay from a family doctor, orthopedist, or emergency department.