Wearing a cast or a splint is a new experience for most people. There are some important things to consider when wearing a cast or splint:
- Check with your therapist when your splint is to be worn
- Your splint or cast should be comfortable and not ‘digging’ into your skin
- Move your fingers, elbow and shoulder regularly
- Keep your splint/cast clean
- Regularly check your blood is circulating through the affected areas by checking the colour of your fingers
- Don’t lift heavy objects (greater then 2kgs) or put yourself in a position where you could re-injure yourself
- If you experience pain, moderate discomfort or swelling, then raise your hand above your heart for ten minutes. If the swelling and pain reduces, then it is ok. If the pain or swelling persists, then call your doctor or go to the hospital.
- Please don’t insert objects inside the cast, pad the cast or splint, use oils/lotions on the cast or splint, or try to trim down the cast /splint or fix the splint yourself
- The splint can melt if left in a hot place, like the dashboard of your car
- If you have a waterproof cast, it is important that you let water run through the cast once a day
- If you don’t have the waterproof liner then it is important not to get your cast wet at all
For additional information about your splint or cast please refer to the splint and cast care advice.