Page 24 - Orthopedic Casting Manual
P. 24

3.1 Functional Goals of Orthopedic


            Casting





            Or thopedic casting is a critical component of fracture management and
            musculoskeletal care. The primar y goal is to promote healing and restore
            function while minimizing complications. Below are the key functional goals of

            or thopedic casting:

            1. Immobilization of the Affected Area
            - Description: Casting provides rigid suppor t to immobilize the injured bone,
            joint, or soft tissue structures, preventing movement at the fracture or injur y site.

            Purpose:
            - Ensures proper alignment of bone fragments for optimal healing.
            - Prevents fur ther injur y or displacement of the fracture.

            - Reduces pain by stabilizing the affected area.
            Clinical Application:
            - Common in fractures, severe sprains, tendon injuries, and post-surgical
            recover y.

            2. Suppor t for Fracture Healing

            - Description: Casting stabilizes the bone during the critical phases of fracture
            healing, allowing the bodyʼs natural repair mechanisms to function effectively.
            Purpose:

            - Facilitates callus for mation and mineralization.
            - Maintains the position of reduction (if a fracture has been realigned).
            - Protects the injur y from ex ter nal forces that could disrupt healing.

            Clinical Application:
            - Used in both simple and complex fractures, such as long bone fractures or
            pediatric greenstick fractures.
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