Can A Cast Be Put On Incorrectly?
Casts are vital for helping the bone begin the process of healing. A cast that is not fitted correctly will not feel comfortable while wearing it. Itching is a common sign that healing has begun. However, pain that gets significantly worse is a sign that a problem is present and a doctor may need to check your cast fitting.
When recovering from a broken bone, is it absolutely necessary to contact your doctor if you suspect an infection has begun or you have discomfort wearing the cast. Your doctor may determine that adjusting the cast is necessary to ensure a smooth healing process. It is very common for a cast to loosen as bone healing is taking place. Once swelling subsides pain will become less of a factor. If pain does increase further along the healing process the best plan of action is to notify your doctor.
Another common issue during healing while wearing a cast is pressure ulcers. You may neglect your skin since it becomes a challenge to see any changes to it under a cast. If you become aware of problems with your skin and it becomes uncomfortable to touch due to the cast rubbing against it, you need to monitor for pressure ulcers. Ulcers develop if the pressure on your skin from the cast does not get relief. Pressure ulcers are most likely to develop on the ankle or elbow when covered by a cast. A sure sign that your cast was incorrectly placed is if the pressure on your skin in these areas is too much to handle.
Your doctor may decide that it is necessary to adjust or replace your cast completely with a new one. If you believe your bone is healing incorrectly and your doctor is at fault for not properly fitting your broken bone with a cast it is a good idea to gather medical records documenting your treatment from the doctor. It may be time to discuss your case with a personal injury lawyer if your bone is not progressing toward being completely healed.
You may need to be seen by a doctor immediately if you lose feeling in your hands, feet or arms. Tingling in your extremities is also a sign that something is not right. Certain groups of at-risk people may need to be seen by a doctor on a regular basis to have their skin inspected. You can protect yourself against pressure ulcers by using a pillow to elevate your arm or leg that is in a cast. If your fingers or toes are unable to move without feeling tenderness or rubbing from the cast, chances of developing a pressure ulcer will increase.
It is not recommended to adjust your cast and in the long run it could lead to more problems. Cutting your cast while it is still healing could slow down the healing process in the long run. Doctors failing to properly fit a cast is a regular occurrence and the patient should seek legal recourse if they believe harm has been done during the healing process.