Arm fracture - cast

The cast

You have either a plaster cast or a fiberglass cast. Read the instructions according to your type of cast.

Plaster cast

The plaster cast will be dry after 24 hours.

During the first 24 hours:

• Avoid putting pressure on the cast.
• Keep the cast uncovered to allow moisture to evaporate.

Avoid getting water on the cast, as it will make the cast dissolve. A wet cast needs to be replaced. It is therefore important that you cover the cast with plastic when you shower. Use two plastic shopping bags and scotch tape to cover completely. Alternatively, use vacuum covers sold at the pharmacy.

Fiberglass cast

The fiberglass cast will be completely dry within 30 minutes.

The fiberglass cast is not water resistant. It is therefore important that you cover the cast with plastic when you shower. Use two plastic shopping bags and scotch tape to cover completely. Alternatively, use vacuum covers sold at the pharmacy. If a fiberglass cast becomes wet, use a hairdryer set on cold air to dry.

Pay attention to the following

• If fingers become swollen, white and cold with a pricking sensation followed by numbness, reduced mobility and increasing strong pain – contact your physician.
• Always keep the arm high, preferably above the height of your heart.
• If you get a sling, only use the first day to avoid elbow stiffness.
• Use your arm normally but avoid twisting and putting weight on the arm.

Exercises

To avoid swelling and to maintain finger-, elbow-, and shoulder mobility, it is important to do the following exercises. The exercises can induce pain. Use painkillers if pain prevents you from doing the exercises.

1. Clench your hand hard.
2. Stretch and spread all fingers, including the thumb.
3. Press each finger to the thumb, one by one.
4. Lift both arms towards the ceiling.
5. Bend and stretch the elbow.

Do the exercises enthusiastically and preferably with the hand held above the height of your heart.

Start doing the exercises immediately to limit swelling and as a result avoid pain and reduced blood circulation. Repeat the exercises as often as you can, preferably several times a day. They will become easier to do after some time.

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