SURVEILLANCE AFTER CAST PLACEMENT:
➜ Elevate the plastered limb as often as possible. The downhill position of the limb promotes edema:
- For the lower limb, the ankle should be positioned higher than the knee.
- For the upper limb, the hand should be at the same level as the torso (the arm in a sling when standing or placed on a large cushion when sitting or lying down).
➜ Move your toes/fingers regularly to promote blood and lymphatic circulation.
➜ Immobilization of the lower limb is a risk factor for deep vein thrombosis (thrombophlebitis). Regular anticoagulant treatment is necessary for the entire duration of cast immobilization and until you resume daily walking with full weight-bearing.
➜ Monitor (and have monitored) your cast regularly, and do not hesitate to notify me, inform your general practitioner, or present yourself to an emergency department if:
- Difficulty moving the toes
- Persistent swelling of the extremities with a sensation of the cast being too tight
- Abnormal coloration of the toes (white, red, or bluish) despite elevation
- Diffuse and intense pain
- Unusual warmth
- Discharge or foul odor coming from the cast
- General symptoms: fever, chills, chest pain, or shortness of breath
➜ Your cast is not designed for walking! It can be placed on a dry and clean surface (contact support), but you should not put weight on it. Therefore, use crutches, a walker, or a wheelchair (with leg support).