Cast Care (cont.)
IN THIS ARTICLE
Ice and Elevation
- A doctor may want the person to use ice to help decrease the swelling of the injured body part. (Check with a physician before using ice.)
- To keep the cast from becoming wet, put ice inside a sealed plastic bag and place a towel between the cast and the bag of ice.
- Apply ice to the injury for 15 minutes each hour (while awake) for the first 24-48 hours.
- Try to keep the cast and injured body part elevated above the level of the heart, especially for the first 48 hours after the injury occurs.
- Elevation will help to decrease the swelling and pain at the site of the injury.
- Propping the cast up on several pillows may be necessary to help elevate the injured area, especially while asleep.
Next: Taking Care of Your Cast »
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Fracture, Ankle »
Ankle fractures refer to fractures of the distal tibia, distal fibula, talus, and calcaneus.

