What is a Cast?
A cast is one of the most common methods of fracture immobilization or support. Casting refers to a method of supprorting bone fractures or soft tissue injuries by wrapping either fiberglass or plaster around a limb so it maintains its position while healing. The casting material usually consists of layers that harden into a rigid shell after being soaked in water. As a cast is becoming harder, sometimes you can hear “crackling sounds” or feel the warm of energy being released. This rigid shell helps to protect the injured area and immobilize it, allowing for proper healing without movement.
Why a cast instead of a splint?
A splint is an external device used to immobilize a fracture but is usually temporary. While casting and splinting are both effective methods of fracture immobilization, casting offers some advantages that make it the preferred method in many cases. One of the major benefits of casting over splinting is that casting provides more secure immobilization by creating a harder, more rigid shell than can be achieved with a splint. This is especially important for fractures that require precise position alignment and stability in order to heal correctly. Additionally, casting offers better protection against external forces, such as impact or pressure, which increases the likelihood of successful healing.