Swelling Control with a Cast
How to reduce swelling and pressure safely so your cast stays comfortable and effective.
- Elevate above heart level for 20–30 minutes, 3–5 times/day during the first week.
- Do gentle finger/toe pumps every 1–2 hours while awake (if allowed).
- Use ice packs near (not directly on) the cast if your provider approves—keep it dry.
- Keep the casted limb supported when sitting or standing.
- Take prescribed pain medicine as directed.
- Do not let the limb hang down for long periods early on.
- Do not wrap the cast with tight elastic bandages unless instructed.
- Do not put ice inside the cast or get padding wet.
- Do not ignore increasing tightness, numbness, or color change.
- Do not “test swelling” by forcing rings/shoes on the casted side.
1) Elevate: rest the limb on pillows so the hand/foot is higher than your heart.
2) Move: perform gentle finger/toe motion and any approved joint motion.
3) Re-check circulation: look for normal color and warmth in fingers/toes.
4) If the cast feels tighter after activity, rest and elevate again.
5) If tightness/pain/numbness persists after 30 minutes of elevation, call us.
- Fingers/toes turn blue/pale, feel cold, or you can’t move them normally.
- Severe pain that is worsening or not controlled with medication.
- New numbness/tingling or increasing tightness that does not improve with elevation.