Casts & Braces
All You Need to Know About Cast and Brace Care
Whether you’re recovering from surgery, a sports-related injury, or you’re managing a chronic condition, you may find yourself in need of an orthopedic device. Your cast or brace will play a key role in your recovery – and taking care of it will help it help you!
To start, here’s an overview of casts and braces:
- Plaster Casts: These types of casts aren’t used too often anymore but may still be implemented in some cases. Plaster casts can be easier to mold and less expensive, but they can also be heavier and require more care – more on that in a bit.
- Fiberglass Casts: These plastic casts offer a lot of pros to their wearer, as they’re lighter and typically more comfortable than their plaster counterparts. Also, your doctor can take X-rays of your injury without removing the cast, bringing ease to follow-up appointments.
- Braces: From ACL injuries to osteoarthritis, braces can help prevent injuries and minimize pain.
In addition to our casts and braces, Billy Kennington – SVH occupational therapist and a certified hand specialist – designs and fabricates custom orthotics for patients. Ask our team how you can receive a specialized splint to support your recovery.
To contact Star Valley Health Therapy Services, call 307-885-7878
Casts and Braces: Do’s and Don’ts
Here are some expert tips on maintaining your cast or brace and minimizing the risk of complications:
- Keep it clean and dry: This is super important. While some casts can be fitted with a waterproof liner, taking precautions is always a good idea. Keep your cast dry during showering by layering it with plastic and sealing it tightly. And even if you have a waterproof cast, ask your doctor if swimming is okay.
- Avoid scratching: We know an itchy cast can be uncomfortable, but scratching can lead to infection. Avoid putting lotion or anti-itch creams under the cast, as this can create a buildup of moisture – and don’t attempt to scratch under the cast with any object. Instead, try gently tapping on the outside of your cast to help alleviate the itch.
- Don’t make adjustments on your own: We make sure that all devices are properly fitted to help maximize healing. If you spot cracks or rough edges, let us know and we can determine possible solutions.
- Keep moving: Now, we’re not talking about overexertion, and you definitely don’t want to put weight on your cast. But light exercises can promote circulation and prevent joint stiffness. Ask our team about therapeutic exercises that you can perform safely.
Contact Us if You Have These Symptoms
All these measures can help ensure you have a strong and healthy recovery. But if you notice any of the following symptoms, contact us immediately:
- Excessive pain or swelling
- Fever
- Numbness, tingling, or burning in the affected area
- Odor emitting from the cast
- Skin that is turning cold or blue
- Sores around or under the cast
Helping You Get Back to Your Daily Rhythms
We understand that wearing a cast, brace, or splint can greatly affect your life, and we’re here to help you safely regain your mobility. For example, our team provides crutch training to demonstrate the most secure way to approach stairs and other tough-to-navigate spaces.
Your recovery may require follow-up appointments, but if you have just a quick question or concern, our telehealth services can be a great option. After all, we want you to be as comfy as possible while you’re healing! Simply call our main office at 307-885-5870 to schedule an appointment for a video chat with a member of our team.
Star Valley Health also provides extensive rehabilitation services in Afton, Thayne, and Cokeville. From device training to therapeutic exercise and fall prevention, our team will tailor your sessions to your specific needs.