How to Care for Your Child's Cast

Tips on caring for your child's cast or splint.

To learn more about caring for your child's cast, visit aboutkidshealth.ca/healthaz/orthopaedics/muscul…

This video is provided for general information only. It does not replace a diagnosis or medical advice from a healthcare professional who has examined your child and understands their unique needs. Please speak with your doctor to check if the content is suitable for your situation.

Cette vidéo sert à donner des renseignements généraux seulement. Elle ne remplace pas le diagnostic ou les conseils médicaux d'un professionnel de la santé qui a examiné votre enfant et comprend ses besoins uniques. Veuillez consulter votre médecin pour vérifier si le contenu convient à votre situation.

Follow us on:
Facebook: facebook.com/AboutKidsHealth
Twitter: twitter.com/AboutKidsHealth
Pinterest: pinterest.com/AboutKidsHealth

Subscribe to the AboutKidsHealth YouTube channel: ow.ly/CzrN50ClHN3

VIDEO TRANSCRIPT

How to care for your child's cast

A splint or a cast is used to hold an injured body part, often an arm or leg, in place. They may be used to help a broken bone heal properly, or to reduce pain associated with the injury. Casts are made fiberglass or plaster.

You want to make sure your child limits the use of their limb so it will heal. At the same time, ask them to regularly move their fingers and toes.

Make sure your child's cast is clean and dry. You can wipe the outside with a damp cloth, but don't submerge the cast. After wiping down a cast, leave the area open until it's dry. You can also use a hair dryer on a cool setting.

Casts usually make your child itch, but never put anything under the cast to scratch. No coins, pens or anything else. Also never cut or try to reshape the cast.

Have your child keep their arm or leg up on a pillow while resting.

Check your child's cast four or five times a day. You want to make sure there are no blisters or redness along the cast edges.

If your child's fingers or toes are blue, white, or swollen; or if they can't bend their fingers or toes, get medical help.

Also, check for any numbness or tingling, for any foul smell, or if the child says it feels too tight.

Key points:
• Keep the cast clean and dry
• Never put anything under it (even if it's itchy)
• Have your child elevate their limb while resting

During the weeks your child is wearing a cast, make sure to keep it clean and dry.

Never put anything under it, even if it's itchy.

Have your child elevate their limb when they're resting.

#CastCare
#SplintCare