What to expect after cast and brace removal
Fracture Cast Removal
The removal of a plaster cast is performed using a saw designed specifically for medical plaster of Paris and synthetic or waterproof casts. It is engineered with safety features that prevent injury to the skin. The saw is used in a top down motion forming a groove in the cast which can then be prised open. The vibration of the saw can be painful if the plaster is being removed or changed very early in treatment. It shouldn’t cause pain after the injury has healed; typically 6 weeks for a wrist or forearm fracture.
Cast Removal Process
- The saw vibrates making a loud buzzing noise. It can get warm from extended use and friction over the cast material.
- The cast removal procedure is painless and our clinicians typically take 10-15 minutes to safely remove your cast.
- You might feel a tickling sensation but you should not experience pain. If you experience pain, please advise the clinician who is removing the cast.
- Special “bandage” scissors are used to cut through the padding underneath after the cast is cut open.
Common effects of cast plaster
- Skin Changes
- Dry, flaky or scaly skin with sensitivity and temporary discolouration
- Increased hair growth in the affected area
- Temporary swelling, particularly when the limb is lowered
- Muscle and Joint Changes
- Joint stiffness, muscle weakness and atrophy
- Reduced range of motion, temporary pain or discomfort during movement
- Possible clicking or crackling sounds during joint movement
- Functional Changes
- Reduced endurance and strength in the affected limb
- Decreased coordination and balance with difficulty in daily activities
- Possible altered gait pattern (for lower limb injuries)
Helpful Care Instructions
- Wash the area gently with mild soap and warm water.
- Pat the skin dry thoroughly and apply moisturiser to help with dry skin.
- Follow our clinicians’ prescribed exercises to rebuild your strength
- Gradually return to normal activities as advised
- Don’t miss follow-up appointments
- Some patients, mostly in adults, may require physiotherapy to regain strength and movement. It takes longer to recover in the lower limb and the older you are. Stiff and sprained ankles can take longer than 6 months to fully recover in adults.
When to Seek Medical Attention
You must seek help if you experience any of these symptoms:
- Severe pain or swelling in the affected limb
- Difficulty moving the affected joint.
- Signs of infection (redness, warmth, discharge)
- Persistent numbness or tingling senstation
- Anything unusual as it is safer to see us and ask if you are unsure
Recovery period after cast removal
Recovery after cast removal is a gradual process requiring patience, dedication, and professional support. Understanding the expected timeline and following prescribed rehabilitation programs are crucial for optimal outcomes. Each patient’s recovery journey is unique, and individual factors will influence the speed and extent of recovery. Regular communication with healthcare providers and adherence to rehabilitation protocols will help ensure the best possible outcome. The recovery period after cast removal varies depending on a few factors:
- Type and severity of the injury or fracture
- Length of time the cast was in place
- Age and general health of the patient
- Compliance with post fracture rehabilitation process
Where can I get my fracture plaster cast removed?
You can get your cast removed at our clinic. Once your cast is removed, our team can assess your movement and help you with post fracture physiotherapy if required.
Why do I feel stiffness and sometimes pain even after the bone union?
It is normal to experience mild pain and stiffness after bone union. Immobilization of the bone for weeks can cause muscles or joint stifness and may restrict movement until you regain strength and flexibility around the injured area.
Is my broken bone fully healed after the cast is removed?
No, your bone may not have fully healed, however, a cast is removed once sufficient calcification has occured and the bone is stable enough for gradual weight-bearing and movement recovery. Full healing continues as you progressively regain function and strength.
When can I return to normal activity after the injury?
Depending on the type of injury or fracture, it can take a few weeks to gain strength and function with flexibility around the injured area. If your injury was severe, you may need physiotherapy to help make proper recovery.
