Casting and splinting for fractures

Category: Minor Procedures, Injections & Pain Relief · All minor procedures, injections & pain relief

$Casting and splinting for fractures — Minor Procedures, Injections & Pain Relief$

What it is

Casting and splinting immobilise a broken or injured bone or joint while it heals. A splint supports without fully encircling (useful when swelling is expected); a full cast encircles the limb and is applied once swelling settles. Modern casts use fibreglass (light, water-tolerant) or traditional plaster of Paris.

Why it is done

Used for most fractures that do not need surgery, after surgery to protect a repair, and for severe sprains and tendon injuries. Some fractures need a 'closed reduction' (manipulation under anaesthetic or sedation) before casting.

How to prepare

Tell the team about allergies, circulation problems and diabetes. For a manipulation, you fast for sedation/anaesthetic. You will be given pain relief before casting.

What happens during the procedure

The limb is positioned, padded with stockinette and cotton padding, then wrapped with the casting material. It sets in minutes (plaster takes longer to dry fully — about 24 to 48 hours). The cast is checked for tightness and you will be shown how to elevate and move the fingers or toes beyond the cast.

Afterwards — recovery & results

You will have a follow-up X-ray and clinic appointment, usually within one to two weeks, to check position and change the cast if swelling has reduced. Keep the cast dry (plaster always; fibreglass tolerates water better but the padding may not), do not insert objects to scratch, and watch for tightness, numbness, increasing pain, blue or cold fingers/toes, or a foul smell — seek help the same day for these.

Risks & considerations

Risks include pressure sores under the cast, compartment syndrome (dangerous pressure inside the limb — increasing pain despite painkillers is a red flag), stiffness after removal, and cast-related skin irritation. Your team will give you a written list of warning signs.

Watch: Casting and splinting for fractures videos

Real procedure videos from the MedicalVideos.com library. Some clinical footage is graphic — that is the nature of a medical video library.

▶ WatchPlaster castWatch on MedicalVideos.com ▶ WatchPlaster cast careWatch on MedicalVideos.com ▶ WatchVolar slab splintWatch on MedicalVideos.com

Frequently asked questions

Can I get my cast wet?

Plaster of Paris must not get wet — it softens and can irritate skin. Fibreglass resists water, but the padding underneath may stay damp. A plastic cover for showers is safest unless your team says otherwise.

Why does my cast feel loose after a week?

Swelling has settled. The clinic checks this at follow-up and may replace or tighten the cast so the fracture stays supported.

Related procedures — Minor Procedures, Injections & Pain Relief

Acupuncture and dry needling (clinical context)Botox for chronic migraine Cryotherapy for skin lesions (seborrheic keratoses, actinic keratoses)Ear grommet insertion (myringotomy with tubes)Ear wax removal (microsuction / irrigation)Frenuloplasty / frenotomy (tongue-tie division)

Browse the C section of the A–Z list or return to the Procedures & Tests hub.

Please note: This page is educational information about a medical procedure or test. It does not replace the instructions of your own care team, who know your situation and whose preparation, fasting and medication advice you should follow if it differs from anything here. If you have symptoms that worry you, or an appointment you do not understand, contact your clinical team.