Help! My Child Is in a Fracture Cast: A Practical Guide to Recovery

Help! My Child Is in a Cast: A Practical Guide to Recovery can be a stressful time for any family. As a paediatric orthopaedic surgeon, I understand your worries. A cast may seem overwhelming, but it is a key part of your child’s fracture care. It supports bone healing and protects the injured area.

Why Does My Child Need a Cast?

Children’s bones are still growing. When a child’s broken bone occurs, we often use a cast. This stabilises the fracture. It also helps bone healing. Without proper cast care, the bone may not heal correctly.

Cast Types and What to Expect

• Plaster of Paris Cast: Often heavier but cheaper. Not water resistant, weakend by water exposure.  Typically used to correct foot deformities by serial casting. Plaster can sometimes be better than fiberglass because it is easier to mold around your bone. Can be removed after soaking in water.

• Fiberglass Cast: Lighter material. Water resistant. Better longevity, not easily weakend.  Removal is done with an oscilating saw. 

• Inner layer: cotton softband / orthoband is not water resistant. This is applied first as padding between your skin and the cast.

Cast Care at Home

• Keep It Dry: This depends on the inner layer which is commonly not water resistant. Use waterproof covers during baths.Waterproof coverings can be home-made or formally purchased from your local pharmacies. 

• Check Skin: Watch for redness or rash around the edges.
• Elevate: In the first few days, keep the cast raised. This helps reduce swelling.

• Stay Active (Within Limits): Follow advice on gentle movements. Do not let your child put weight on a leg cast unless allowed.

Spotting Problems Early

Bone healing requires careful monitoring. If the cast feels too tight, causes numbness, or there is bad odour, contact your paediatric orthopaedic surgeon. Swift action helps avoid complications.

Pain Management

Some discomfort is normal for a child’s broken bone. Pain relief medicines can help. Simple over-the-counter options often work well. But always check with your doctor first.

Helping Your Child Cope

Your child might feel anxious or frustrated. Reassure them that a cast is temporary. Encourage activities that keep them busy. Drawing, reading, or board games can help. This mental boost supports overall recovery.

Transition to Normal Activities

When it is time for cast removal, bone healing should be complete. Your paediatric orthopaedic surgeon may advise physiotherapy to regain strength. Take it slowly. The child may feel stiff at first. Gradual exercises will help them return to normal function.

Conclusion

Help! My Child Is in a Cast: A Practical Guide to Recovery need not be a daunting experience. A cast is vital in a child’s fracture care and ensures proper bone healing. With correct cast care and guidance from a paediatric orthopaedic surgeon, your child can heal well and get back to normal activities in due time.