Can I use a splint instead of a cast?
Doctors use splints for broken bones if the area around the injury is swollen. When there’s swelling, splints are a better choice than casts because they are easy to loosen, if needed. Health care providers usually replace a splint with a cast on a broken bone after the swelling goes down.
Is a cast better than a brace?
A cast is not always better than a splint. They both do a good job of immobilizing a broken bone or an injured area. The severity of the fracture will help determine if a cast or splint is the better treatment option.
Do you need a cast for scaphoid fracture?
Whether your treatment is surgical or nonsurgical, you may be required to wear a cast or splint for up to 6 months or until your fracture has healed. Unlike most other fractures, scaphoid fractures tend to heal slowly.
When do you use a cast or splint?
Splints are often used for simple or stable fractures, sprains, tendon injuries, and other soft-tissue injuries; casting is usually reserved for definitive and/or complex fracture management.
Can you walk in a splint?
You may be able to walk with an ankle splint, but often not right away. After injuries such as sprains, fractures, and dislocations occur, they usually need time to heal before weight-bearing. Walking or weight bearing too soon may slow healing or cause further damage.
Is a cast or splint more comfortable?
Splints, also known as half-casts, provide less support than casts, but are faster and easier to use. They also can be tightened or loosened easily if the swelling in the arm or leg increases or decreases.
Is it OK to walk on a cast?
Even if the plaster cast makes your skin feel very itchy, do not poke anything underneath it. This could cause a nasty sore and lead to infection. Do not walk on a cast unless you have been told it is safe to do so and have been given a plaster shoe. The itchiness should settle down after a few days.
What happens if you don’t treat a scaphoid fracture?
If a Scaphoid fracture does not heal, it is called a Scaphoid Fracture Non-union. If left untreated, the part of the Scaphoid that interacts with the Radius may die, which can lead to painful arthritis in the wrist, developing months to years after the initial injury.
How tight should a cast be on your foot?
Proper Cast Fit 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!