Cold Weather and Heat: Protecting Your Cast
How temperature and moisture affect cast comfort, swelling, and skin safety.
- In cold weather, keep exposed fingers/toes warm with loose layers (not tight).
- Avoid prolonged sun/heat exposure; keep the cast shaded when outdoors.
- Keep the cast dry—snow and sweat can seep into edges.
- Elevate after long periods outside if swelling increases.
- Check skin for redness after temperature changes.
- Do not use heating pads or direct heat on the cast.
- Do not place the cast on hot surfaces (car dashboards, space heaters).
- Do not wear tight gloves/socks that squeeze near the cast edge.
- Do not ignore burning pain or new hot spots after heat exposure.
- Do not attempt to dry with heat if the cast gets damp.
1) Dress in loose layers; avoid tight elastic around cast edges.
2) If you sweat, let the outside air out; use a fan for airflow.
3) If you get snow/rain on the cast, towel-dry immediately and check edges.
4) After outdoor activity, elevate and check circulation in digits.
5) Call if you develop wet padding, odor, burning pain, or skin irritation.
- Wet padding, cracking/softening, or foul odor.
- Blue/pale or very cold digits that do not improve with warmth and elevation.
- Burning pain or hot spot under the cast.