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• Mild swelling: Temporary fluid retention in the immobilized limb.
• Muscle atrophy: Decreased muscle mass from disuse.
• Joint stiffness: Particularly in the wrist, elbow, or ankle due to immobilization.

Recommended Post-Removal Care:

1. Gentle Cleansing:
o Wash the area with mild soap and warm water.
o Avoid scrubbing aggressively to prevent irritation.
o Apply a moisturizing lotion to prevent excessive dryness and cracking.
2. Gradual Mobilization:
o Encourage gentle stretching exercises to restore range of motion.
o Avoid sudden weight-bearing on lower extremities immediately after cast
removal.
o For patients with long-term immobilization, consider referral to physical
therapy.
3. Addressing Skin Sensitivity and Weakness:
o If the skin is highly sensitive, suggest wearing a compression sleeve or soft
brace initially.
o Instruct patients to avoid hot showers or prolonged exposure to sun for the first
few days as the skin adjusts.

• Patients may experience dry skin and stiffness.
• Recommend gentle washing, moisturizing, and gradual movement.
• For long-term immobilization cases, physical therapy referral may be needed.

3. Patient Education on Cast Care

Proper patient education before and after cast removal helps prevent complications and promotes
safe recovery.

Before Cast Removal – Key Instructions:

• Inform the patient about potential sensations: They may feel vibrations but not cutting
during saw use.
• Explain that muscle atrophy is normal: Encourage slow, progressive use of the limb
after removal.
• Advise against self-removal: Cutting or peeling off the cast improperly can cause skin
lacerations.

After Cast Removal – What Patients Need to Know:

1. Avoid Heavy Lifting or Weight-Bearing:
o If the cast was on an upper limb, avoid lifting objects over 5 lbs for the first few
days.