Page 137 - ASOP Orthopedic Casting Manual

3.4.1 Short Leg Cast cont ...

Stockinette Applic ation
Applying stockinette and p adding cor rectly is crucial for p atient comfor t and protection when applying an
or thopedic shor t leg c ast. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply both the stockinette and p adding:
Select the Cor rect Size: Choose a stockinette size appropr iate for the p atient's leg circumference.

Appl y the Stockinette: Slide the stockinette over the foot and leg, ex tending approximatel y 2 inches
beyond the intended c ast borders (to be folded later).

Ensure Smooth Applic ation: Avoid wr inkles or tight folds to prevent skin ir r itation.

Tr im Excess Length: Ensure 2 inches remain beyond the c ast margins to allow for later folding over the
p adding.

Padding Applic ation

Star t Distall y (at the Toes): Begin wrapping just below the metatarsal he ads to avoid over-tightening at
the toes.

Wrap Evenl y around ankle complex: Use the entire roll to cover ankle with 50% over lap to ensure full
coverage without excessive bulk.

Maintain Neutral Foot Position: Hold the foot in a 90-degree dorsiflexed position as you wrap.

Provide Ex tra Padding Over Bony Are as: Add additional layers over the malleoli, tibial crest, heel, and
Achilles tendon, as needed.

Appl y another roll star ting at previous layer above malleoli to connect ankle compex with lower leg.
Continue up the lower leg to tibial tubercle and retur n b ack down to ankle.

The above techniques c an be viewed on video at the end of this lesson.

By c arefully applying both the stockinette and p adding, you cre ate a comfor table and protective layer bet ween
the p atient's skin and the fiberglass c ast mater ial. This helps to minimize the r isk of skin ir r itation, pressure sores,
and other complic ations dur ing the he aling process.