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Casting and Splinting - Center for Family Medicine Mandan
What is it?
Casts and splints are made of fiberglass or plaster. They are formed around a bone or joint to provide protection after an injury.
Why do I need it?
Splints are used right after an injury. They do not completely encircle the joint and are held in place by an elastic wrap. They can stretch slightly to accommodate for swelling. Casts completely surround the injury and provide more support. Both casts and splints protect sprained or broken bones while they heal.
How is it done?
The doctor puts cotton padding on the injured limb to protect the skin, then wraps the plaster or fiberglass over the top. It is then shaped to hold the limb in the right position. Over the next few minutes to an hour, it will harden.
Center for Family Medicine Mandan
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