Dr. Soham Dinda, Consultant Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgeon in Tamluk, Purba Medinipur (MBBS Hons, NRSMCH; MS Orthopaedics, RG Kar MC&H), explains plaster, cast, slab, splint: symptoms, causes, tests and treatment options.
What are a plaster and a cast?
A plaster of Paris (POP) or fibreglass cast is a hard support wrapped around an injured arm or leg to keep the bone or joint still while it heals. A slab is a half cast, often used first when there is swelling. A splint or brace is a removable support for milder injuries and sprains. The choice depends on the injury, the swelling and how long support is needed.
When is plaster or cast used?
- Stable fractures of the wrist, forearm, hand, ankle, foot and some leg bones
- After a bone has been put back in position (reduction) to hold it there
- Fractures in children, which often heal well in plaster
- Severe sprains, tendon injuries and some dislocations after reduction
- Protection after some surgeries, as advised
Not every fracture can be treated in plaster. Displaced, unstable, open or joint fractures may need surgical fixation.
What happens during treatment
- The injury is examined and an X-ray is taken to confirm the diagnosis
- If the bone is out of position, it is gently realigned, with pain relief
- Soft padding is applied, and then the plaster or fibreglass is moulded around the limb
- A slab may be used first, and a full cast applied after swelling goes down
- A check X-ray confirms that the bone stays in position, and follow-up dates are fixed
How to care for your plaster
- Keep the plaster dry. Use a plastic cover when bathing, and never put the limb in water.
- Raise the limb on pillows for the first 2 to 3 days to reduce swelling.
- Move your fingers or toes often to keep blood flowing.
- Do not push anything inside to scratch, and do not cut or trim the plaster yourself.
- Do not put weight on a leg plaster unless you are told you can.
- Keep the plaster clean and avoid oil, powder or water inside.
When to return to the doctor at once
- Increasing pain that does not ease with rest and elevation
- Fingers or toes turning blue, pale, cold, very swollen or numb
- Tingling or inability to move fingers or toes
- Plaster feeling too tight, or too loose and slipping
- Wet or damaged plaster, bad smell, or fluid or stains coming through
- Fever, or skin sores at the plaster edges
These can be signs that the cast is too tight or that a problem is developing, and they should not be ignored.
How long does a plaster stay on?
It varies. Many wrist and forearm fractures need about 4 to 6 weeks, ankle and leg fractures sometimes longer, and children often heal faster. Your doctor decides by checking progress and follow-up X-rays. Stiffness is common after removal, so gentle exercises and physiotherapy advice help you regain movement and strength.
Plaster and cast care in Tamluk
Dr. Soham Dinda, Consultant Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgeon, provides fracture and injury care including plaster, slab and splint in Tamluk, Purba Medinipur. Patients from Haldia, Mahishadal, Panskura, Kolaghat, Mecheda and nearby places can call 8910051072 for an appointment.
সংক্ষেপে বাংলায়
হাত বা পা ভাঙলে হাড় জোড়া লাগার জন্য প্লাস্টার বা স্ল্যাব দিয়ে অঙ্গটি স্থির রাখা হয়। প্লাস্টার ভেজানো যাবে না, হাত-পা উঁচু করে রাখতে হবে আর আঙুল নাড়াতে হবে। আঙুল নীল, ঠান্ডা, অসাড় বা খুব ফুলে গেলে অথবা ব্যথা বাড়তে থাকলে সঙ্গে সঙ্গে ডাক্তারের কাছে যান। তমলুকে প্লাস্টার ও ফ্র্যাকচারের চিকিৎসার জন্য ফোন করুন ৮৯১০০৫১০৭২।
This page is for general awareness and does not replace a consultation. Please see a qualified doctor for diagnosis and treatment.