Casting for Broken Bones at Encino Orthopedics

Another non-surgical, non-invasive treatment for a bone fracture includes casting. If your fractured bone does not require arthroscopic or traditional surgery, it most likely best treated through bracing and/or casting. The function of casting (or splinting) a broken bone is to stabilize it and ensure that it stays properly aligned while the natural healing process takes place over time. Casting fractured bones is particularly important because of the potential risk of re-injury as your return to your daily. A cast or splint will hold the fractured bone in place while the bone works towards healing.

In addition to providing proper stability, casting and splints provided by Encino Orthopedics also help to reduce the pain and swelling that accompany a broken bone. By supporting and protecting the site of the bone fracture, you are reducing potential for further harmer, aggravation, or undue stress that might impede the healing process.

Casts are custom made for each injured patient. Because their function is to specifically protect and stabilize the broken bone, casts are special made to form fit the site of your bone injury. Splints and partial casts (half-casts) may also be custom made and fitted, but they are also available in ready-made varieties that still provide the support and protection necessary to treat and heal your bone fracture. Full, custom casts are typically made from fiberglass or plastic, since both materials are able to be molded to your specific appendage.

First, a light padding is applied to the affected area, usually in the form of cotton, in order to protect and cushion the skin. From there, the casting materials come in the form of strips or rolls that are then dipped and water and fashioned around the injured area to create a custom fit and mold. As a fracture heals, it is sometimes necessary to replace the cast or trade it for a freer form splint, either to adjust for reduced swelling, or to allow a greater range of motion to complete associated physical therapy exercises. Dr. Reisch will let you know just how long you'll be in a cast, and how to properly care for yourself while in a cast.

After the cast has been removed from a broken bone, rehabilitation exercises are generally suggested to reduce stiffness and weakness, and to increase strength and range of motion.