Cast & Splint

Casts and Splints are devices used by doctors to keep the injured structure still so that it can heal properly. They are most often used for patients with fractured bones. A splint is generally used first, right after an injury as it allows for swelling to happen. It is made from firm plastic that surrounds many layers of soft padding cloth. A cast however is rigid and used once the swelling goes down. It stays on for several weeks to keep the bones in the correct position while they heal.

See Examples

The Teen
Connection

Why does it matter for teens?

Teens are more involved in sports and physical activities making them more prone to injuries like sprains or fractures. Thus, it is important for teens to understand the importance of casts or splints and when to use them. These tools immobilize an injured area so that it can heal properly. Knowing how to care for a cast or splint and recognizing potential problems in the process allows individuals to speed up their own recovery process.

How It Affects You

“Twisted your ankle playing soccer?”

“Fell off your bike and hurt your wrist?”

“Or think you might have broken a bone during PE?”

Well, that’s where casts and splints come in…

If an individual twists their ankle, a splint is used first to support the area while it’s swollen. It keeps the joint from moving and is protected while your body heals. Once the swelling is gone, a brace or cast might be added if needed.

Falling off your bike and hurting your wrist could mean that there is a possible sprain or a small fracture. Your doctor will use a splint to prevent further damage from movement. If it’s a bigger injury, doctors use a cast to hold the bones in place for many weeks.

For serious fractures, like a broken arm or leg, a cast is an important device. It fully covers the injured area to immobilize it. Depending on the individual patient, a doctor might start with a splint, then switch to a cast.