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Is it OK to have people sign and draw on my child’s cast? Definitely! That often makes the whole broken bone experience more bearable for kids. Permanent markers usually work best; washable ones can smear.
Can you draw on fiberglass?
Yes, these markers will write on a fiberglass cast. However, the ink is only water resistant, not waterproof. If you have the traditional cast that should never get wet, these markers will work fine.
What kind of marker writes on a cast?
It can be done, though. Just buy a thick marker. If you have a darker colored cast, you can buy a thick-tipped silver marker that should work well. Just keep in mind before you hand the pen over, that most ink will be on the cast for the duration of your treatment.
What happens if a fiberglass cast gets wet?
In general, casts are meant to stay dry. A wet cast can lead to skin irritation or infection. Plaster casts and fiberglass casts with conventional padding aren’t waterproof. Keep your child’s cast dry during baths or showers by covering it with two layers of plastic, sealed with a rubber band or duct tape.
Are fiberglass casts better than plaster?
Fiberglass has several advantages compared to plaster. It weighs less, so the cast made from it will be lighter. More durable and porous, fiberglass allows air to flow in and out. Fiberglass is the better choice in case the limb must be X-rayed during the healing process.
How long does it take for a fiberglass cast to dry?
Fiberglass dries in 15 to 30 minutes, but plaster can take longer. If you are walking on the cast or splint, the drying time will be longer. On average, plaster will take about a day and a half before it’s hard enough to support your weight, but fiberglass will take about 20 to 30 minutes.
Can I draw on my cast?
Is it OK to have people sign and draw on my child’s cast? Definitely! That often makes the whole broken bone experience more bearable for kids. Permanent markers usually work best; washable ones can smear.
What is the best color for a cast?
Black or dark blue is a good choice. If your cast is a darker color, have a silver or other light-colored marker ready. Sharpie is the best known brand of permanent markers.
How strong is a fiberglass cast?
A fiberglass cast weighs only a few ounces and several layers of the fiberglass can be used to create a walking cast that is strong enough to support a person’s weight within about 20 minutes of its application. As an example, a fiberglass short leg cast, sometimes called a boot cast, weighs about a pound.
What is a fiberglass cast?
Fiberglass cast. Also called a synthetic cast, it’s made of fiberglass, which is a type of plastic that can be shaped. It’s lighter and more durable and expensive than plaster casts. X-rays also “see” through it better. Fiberglass is water-resistant.
What colors do fiberglass casts come in?
Cast Colors If your child requires a formal fiberglass cast, there are a number of colors to choose from. The following colors are usually available upon request: Navy Blue, Light Blue, Green, Red, Black, Pink and Off White (standard). Orange and Purple are not usually available.
How do I style my cast?
How to Get Dressed While Wearing a Cast Wear shirts with short or no sleeves. Using your good arm, put your shirt sleeve over your cast first, minimizing movement of your injured arm. Select pants with an elasticized waist and skirts which easily pull over your head.
Is it normal for fingers to go numb in a cast?
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.
Is it illegal to drive with a cast on your foot?
Yes and no, as it’s not specifically illegal to drive with a broken leg or foot, but if a doctor advises you not to drive then you legally cannot get behind the wheel. This is because you need to maintain full articulation of your feet, ankles, and legs, to safely control the car through the pedals.
Can you swim with a fiberglass cast?
You should never go swimming in a traditional fiberglass cast, even if it’s covered. If you’re using a waterproof cover, you should still avoid fully submerging your cast. Small holes in the cast cover or an imperfect fit can cause the cast to get wet.
Can you fly with a fiberglass cast?
You can travel with your cast if it has been fitted for more than 48 hours. Otherwise, the cast needs to be split.
Do doctors use casts anymore?
While fiberglass material is newer, many casts used today are still made from plaster. Plaster casts are most often used when a fracture reduction (repositioning of the bone) is performed.
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.
How tight should a fiberglass cast be?
Your cast should feel very snug, maybe even tight, for the first few days after your injury. This is normal. A cast is meant to help your injury heal by protecting it from movement. Feeling a reasonable amount of tightness means the cast is doing its’ job!Jul 2, 2019.
How often should cast be changed?
Plaster casts are made up of a bandage and a hard covering, usually plaster of paris. They allow broken bones in the arm or leg to heal by holding them in place, and usually need to stay on for between 4 and 12 weeks. Taking good care of your cast will help ensure a better recovery.
