CAST TREATMENT

If you need a cast treatment, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What Is A Cast Treatment?

Cast treatment, also known as casting, is a common non-surgical method used to immobilize and support a fractured or injured limb during the healing process. It involves applying a rigid or semi-rigid cast made of plaster or fiberglass material around the affected area to protect the injured bone or soft tissues, promote proper alignment, and facilitate healing.

The casting process is typically performed by a healthcare professional, such as an orthopedic doctor or a trained nurse, and involves the following steps:

1. Evaluation: The injured limb is carefully examined and assessed using X-rays or other imaging techniques to determine the type and extent of the injury.
2. Preparation: Before applying the cast, the skin around the injured area is cleaned and may be padded with a soft layer of cotton or padding to protect the skin from irritation caused by the cast material.
3. Application: The plaster or fiberglass casting material is soaked in water and then carefully wrapped around the injured limb. The cast is molded and shaped to provide the necessary support and immobilization for the specific injury.
4. Drying and Setting: Plaster casts need time to dry and harden, whereas fiberglass casts harden relatively quickly. The patient is advised to keep the limb in a stable position during this time to ensure proper alignment and prevent any movement that may compromise the healing process.

Benefits of Cast Treatment:

1. Immobilization: Casting helps stabilize and immobilize the injured limb, preventing further movement and allowing the body to heal naturally.
2. Protection: The cast provides a protective barrier around the injured area, reducing the risk of further injury and contamination.
3. Pain Relief: By stabilizing the injured limb and reducing movement, casts can help alleviate pain and discomfort.
4. Facilitating Healing: Proper immobilization and alignment provided by the cast promote optimal healing of fractured bones or injured soft tissues.
5. Non-Invasive: Casting is a non-surgical treatment option for many orthopedic injuries, which can be advantageous for patients who may not be suitable candidates for surgery.
6. Cost-Effective: Casting is generally more cost-effective compared to surgical interventions.

After the cast is applied, patients are typically instructed to avoid putting weight or pressure on the injured limb and to follow any specific care instructions provided by their healthcare provider. Regular follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor the healing progress, and adjustments to the cast may be made if needed.

Casting is a valuable treatment option for various orthopedic injuries, but its effectiveness depends on proper application and patient compliance with care instructions. In some cases, if the injury is severe or fails to heal adequately with casting alone, other treatments, such as surgery, may be considered.

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.