Not all casts are waterproof. Some casts must remain dry due to fracture type, surgical incisions, exposed hardware (such as pins), medical conditions, material availability, or insurance coverage.
If your child has a dry cast, following the right care instructions will help prevent complications such as skin irritation, infection, or discomfort during healing.
Mild itching is common with a dry cast. You can help ease the discomfort using these safe strategies:
1. Gently tap on the outside of cast to create a light vibration
2. Massaging the exposed skin around the edge of the cast
3. Apply a sealed ice pack or bag of frozen vegetables to the outside of the cast (do not allow moisture to leak inside)
4. Consider an over-the-counter antihistamine (such as diphenhydramine/Benadryl), if
approved by your doctor
NEVER stick anything down a cast. NO rulers, pencils, pens, pen caps, or ANYTHING. Putting something down the cast can cause the padding to bunch up and make it uncomfortable for the child or cause a sore on the skin.
NO going to the beach while you are wearing a cast. If shells or sand get lodged in the cast, it can cause a sore as well.
DO NOT get the cast wet. A wet cast can result in a foul odor and skin irritation. It can also cause infection of underlying incisions or pins.
REMEMBER the more you sweat, the more a cast will itch.
If you get the cast WET, please call our office. A wet cast can result in a foul odor and skin irritation. It can also cause infection of underlying incisions.
When waterproof casting is not an option, the cast must be protected during bathing. To keep the cast dry:
• Use a medical-grade cast protector or commercial cover (such as the CVS Reusable Cast
and Wound Protector or DRYPro Half Leg Cast Cover)
• Alternatively, double-wrap the cast in plastic bags and secure with waterproof tape (such as duct tape)
• Avoid submerging the cast completely in water, even with protection in place
The most effective way to avoid a wet cast is to keep the cast completely out of contact with water.