Having on a cast is a rather awakening experience. Not only are you adapting to working with less than one limb, but you also have to deal with the bulk of the cast.
Well, you could say that with the improved technology, these things are not as bulky anymore since they use fiberglass material that is way lighter ..but still, it adds a few pounds.
This article will tell you what no one bothers to disclose to you about having a cast.
Now let’s dive right into it.
1.You are going to change your wardrobe
Nothing may fit over your cast especially pants or long-sleeved tops
Coping tip;
Arms; get lots of sleeveless tops and shawls to make dressing up a breeze.
Legs; invest in some oversize shorts or cargo pants.
2. It is going to itch a lot under the cast
There will be a build-up of dead skin, the unfamiliar textures in contact with your skin like the cotton wool and plaster cast/ fiberglass, trapped moisture all lead to itching when you have a cast on. However, refrain from inserting any instruments under the cast whether it is a ruler or a pen as these can easily injure the skin leading to infection.
Coping tip;
Turn on your hair drier and blow some cool air(not hot or warm) into the cast. This will feel amazing
If the pain persists, see your doctor for some antipruritic pills or creams.
3. It is going to feel really strange at the start
coping tip;
Remember, this is all very temporary. Normally the longest you might go with a cast is 2months and these weeks will fly by.
4. You will look forward to your doctor’s appointments
Each doctor’s appointment is an opportunity to find out if the bone has finally healed. This will vary from bone to bone and your doctor will tell you accordingly.
Coping tip;
Do your research so you can be as knowledgeable as you can about your problem. This will also help you know the right questions to ask and know when a problem has arisen.
With every doctor’s appointment, there is hope that perharps that is the day the cast goes off.
5. You will truly appreciate the care of the people around you.
Coping Tip;
Say thank you for all acts of kindness. It will really show these people that you appreciate them. Most importantly, don’t hesitate to ask for help especially if the people around you are willing to help.
6. You will need to adjust your hobbies.
Nothing screams stay home and rest better than a cast. For the outdoorsy lot, again, this is temporary.
Coping tip;
Keep an open mind and be open to other kinds of fun. These exercises can be helpful if you have the kings of casts
- Upper limb cast
Exercise adjustment; Use a stationary bicycle to keep yourself active
- Lower limb cast;
For fun , do board games and video games or better pick up reading if you are not already.
Exercise adjustment; use an upper body ergometer to keep your cardiovascular system tick.
7.Cast can sometimes cause further harm to an injured body part.
This is very common especially in the first 72 hours after casting.. in the acute phase, the tissues may still be swelling which is a normal part of inflammation following injury.
Well, a hard cast can be constricting to these tissues and cut off blood supply .
This will lead to a condition called compartment syndrome. It will always present with excruciating pain that wont be alleviated with a painkiller.
The foot or hand may change in color and you may start to lose sensation in your toes or fingers. These unfortunately are late manifestations of this problem.
Important tip;
This is an emergency and you need to go to the hospital immediately.
8. Frustration from feeling helpless.
The first few weeks can be a nuisance especially if you are very self-reliant.
Coping tip;
Learn to accept help from friends and family. Try to put things where they are easy to get to.
9.Sleeping position will have to change
This is especially the case if you have an arm cast. You will not be able to sleep on the side with the cast for some time.
You may have some swelling in the limb with a cast if it is left in a dependent position for long
Coping tip;
Know that this is only temporary and you will be back to comfort in no time.
Invest in some comfortable pillows that will help prop up your limbs, whether leg or arm to reduce on the swelling.
10. Showering could prove to be challenging.
You need to keep your cast dry, whether it is fiber glass or plaster cast unless it is waterproof. Moisture will cause an odor or if it is a plaster cast, it will begin to break down.
Coping tip;
Use a cast protector as you take your shower. These are relatively ubiquitous and cheap too if you compare the cost of having to book a new appointment for a cast change.
Remember to keep yourself supported as these covers could be slippery in a bathroom.
Remember, always water proof your cast before hoping into a shower! Even a single drop of water could ruin your cast.
Also you could buy a plastic stool so that you can take your showers while seated so you do not have to worry about slipping and falling down.
In conclusion, the experience of having a cast requires patience. The scenarios and tips i have shared should adequately guide you while you have on a cast.
