It takes around 6 to 8 weeks for a minor fracture to heal. More severe fractures can take
between 3 and 6 months
to fully heal even after the cast is removed. Your physical therapist may require you to do exercises 3-5 times a day.
When can I start walking after cast removal?
Crutches can be used for partial support but you can begin walking on your leg
as soon as it is comfortable enough or as per the advice of your doctor
. You may be limping on the injured foot for a few weeks after removal of the cast. It can be sore when you walk long distances.
What to expect after having a cast removed?
After having a cast removed, it is
normal to experience pain, stiffness and decreased range of motion in the area(s) that were immobilized
. Symptoms can last up to twice the amount of immobilization time. For Example, if the patient was in a cast for 3-4 weeks, symptoms may last up to 6-8 weeks.
How long does the stiffness last after cast removal?
After having a cast removed, it is normal to experience pain, stiffness and decreased range of motion in the area(s) that were immobilized. Symptoms can last up to twice the amount of immobilization time. For Example, if the patient was in a cast for 3-4 weeks, symptoms may last
up to 6-8 weeks
.
How do I strengthen my legs after cast removal?
An important part of the treatment after cast removal is early rehabilitation. It will encourage recovery and help prevent re-injury and/or chronic problems. Physiotherapy is the best way to improve the strength and flexibility of your leg, retrain your balance and help you return to activity
within a few weeks
.
Does removing a cast hurt?
If everything seems OK, the doctor or a
cast technician will remove the cast with a special saw
. It has a dull blade that moves from side to side. It’s the vibrations that break the cast apart, so there’s nothing to hurt your skin.
Is it normal to have pain after cast removal?
After the cast is removed,
it is normal for there to be some discomfort in the bones and joints
that were immobilized, for the arm or leg to be smaller than the other side, and for the skin to have some changes (dry skin and more hair).
Why is my leg swollen after cast removal?
Your injury is still healing
. So it may swell even after the cast is removed. (This is especially true of leg injuries.) To help reduce swelling, raise the injury higher than your heart.
Is numbness normal after cast removal?
Numbness & Tingling: This may be caused by pressure on
the nerves
. Extreme Swelling/Tightness/Pain in Cast: This can be the result of swelling inside the cast. Burning, Stinging, or Skin Irritation: This can be caused by too much pressure on the skin or by a wet cast.
Why is my hand still swollen after cast removal?
Expect swelling
/discomfort for up to one year after fracture
, especially around the little finger side of the wrist. This is normal and does not mean there is anything to worry about. Your wrist and hand may also be very sensitive. Keep your wrist and hand moving to ease this and ask your physiotherapist for advice.
Should I wear a wrist brace after cast removal?
Patients may still be advised to wear a
soft wrist splint at night for 1 to 2 weeks after the cast is removed
to stabilize the wrist and help patients sleep better.
How do I take care of my skin after cast removal?
Wash the skin with soap and water
when you get home from getting the cast off. This will help it smell better! After that, wash the area with soap and water regularly, just like you wash the rest of your body. If there are any scabs from the injury, do not pick at them.
How long does it take to walk after non weight bearing?
According to a survey of the members of the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Surgeons, the average time period for non-weight bearing is
five to eight weeks
depending on the patient and the injury.
What happens if a cast is left on too long?
The skin can break down and become infected if it remains wet
for a long time. Do not trim, file or break off rough areas around the edge of a plaster cast.
What happens if you don’t wear a cast?
Technically speaking, the answer to the question “
can broken bones heal without a cast
?” is yes. Assuming conditions are just right, a broken bone can heal without a cast. However, (and very importantly) it doesn’t work in all cases. Likewise, a broken bone left to heal without a cast may heal improperly.
Is sweating in a cast bad?
Only use the cool setting—
warm air can damage the cast
. A bike pump can also do in a pinch. Minimize moisture and sweating. Excess moisture can worsen cast itch, so limit heat and follow the above tips for keeping your cast dry.
