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A cast protects a broken bone or other injury. Most casts are made of fibreglass, but plaster casts are still sometimes used.
After a cast is on, you can't remove it yourself. Your doctor will take it off.
Follow your doctor's instructions for when you can first put weight on the cast. Fibreglass casts dry quickly and are soon ready to bear weight. But plaster casts may take several days before they are hard enough to use.
When it's okay to put weight on your cast, do not stand or walk on it unless it is designed for walking.
Your cast may feel snug for a few days after your surgery or injury. This is usually because of swelling. Swelling can slow healing and cause pain. Too much swelling inside the cast can cause pressure that can harm you.
To help reduce swelling:
Call your doctor right away if:
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
Current as of: November 9, 2022
Author: Healthwise StaffMedical Review: Adam Husney MD - Family MedicineKathleen Romito MD - Family MedicineWilliam H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency MedicineMartin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
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