Health Tip: Ease Swelling Beneath a Cast

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In: Arthritis, Bones & Joints

(HealthDay News) — Wearing a cast or splint requires special care to help a broken bone heal.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers these suggestions:

  • Make sure the cast or splint stays dry.
  • Don’t put weight on a walking cast until the cast has completely hardened and dried.
  • Take care to prevent sand, powder and dirt from getting between the cast and skin.
  • Don’t remove padding from the cast or splint.
  • Never use an object to reach beneath the cast to scratch. Don’t apply powder or deodorant on itchy skin beneath a cast.
  • Never break off pieces of the cast.
  • Regularly inspect the cast for soft spots. Check surrounding skin for signs of irritation. If you find either of these problems, contact your doctor.