Avoid bumping or knocking the cast against any hard surface. Do not use a foreign object, such as a nail file, to scratch under the cast, since it may break the skin and cause an infection. If itching is a problem, the doctor should be advised. Never stuff cotton or toilet tissue under the margin of the cast, since it may fall into the cast or decrease circulation and cause serious medical problems. Elevate the extremity during the first few days after injury.
Elevation helps reduce swelling and discomfort.
Applying an ice pack to the injured area may also help. Never remove a cast yourself. Your doctor has a special tool to do this. After the cast is applied, be sure to ask the doctor for a written list of instructions that can be referred to when taking care of the cast. Pressure beneath the cast indicating that it may be too tight.