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4. Walking Cast

• Indications: Stable foot and ankle fractures.
• Reinforced with a walking heel for limited ambulation.

Troubleshooting Common Casting Problems

1. Pressure Sores and Skin Breakdown

• Prevention: Ensure adequate padding at bony prominences.
• Management: Loosen or bivalve the cast, apply foam dressings if needed.

2. Cast Tightness and Swelling

• Symptoms: Numbness, tingling, pain.
• Management: Elevate, monitor circulation, consider splitting the cast.

3. Cracked or Soft Casts

• Cause: Inadequate drying or impact damage.
• Solution: Reinforce with additional layers or replace.

4. Cast Syndrome (Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome)

• Seen in hip spica casts, causing abdominal compression.
• Requires urgent medical intervention.

Cast Removal Procedures and Patient Education

Cast removal is a critical step in fracture management that must be performed safely to prevent
injury, skin damage, or undue patient anxiety. Orthopaedic technologists must be skilled in using
proper techniques and equipment while ensuring patient comfort throughout the process.
Educating patients on post-removal care is equally important to prevent complications and
facilitate rehabilitation.

1. Safe Cast Removal

Key Considerations Before Removal:

• Assess the condition of the cast: Look for cracks, tightness, or pressure areas before
proceeding.