An orthopedic cast or orthopaedic cast, commonly referred to simply as a cast, is a form of medical treatment used to immobilize and support bones and soft tissues during the healing process after fractures, surgeries, or severe injuries. By restricting movement, casts provide stability to the affected area, enabling proper alignment and healing of bones, ligaments, and tendons. They are commonly applied to the limbs but can also be used for the trunk, neck, or other parts of the body in specific cases. Orthopedic casts come in various types and designs, tailored to the nature and severity of the injury, as well as the patient's needs. Advances in medical techniques have made casts more comfortable, effective, and versatile, allowing for both weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing options.

Upper extremity casts are frequently utilized to immobilize the arm, wrist, or hand for the treatment of fractures, soft tissue injuries, or during post-surgical recovery. They offer stabilization and support, aiding in proper healing while minimizing the risk of further injury. Common types include long arm casts, short arm casts, and specialized versions such as thumb spica casts.

A long arm cast extends from the upper arm to the wrist or hand, immobilizing the elbow joint in addition to the forearm. It is typically used for injuries requiring stabilization across multiple joints, such as forearm fractures, certain elbow injuries, and complex soft-tissue damage. It is usually insured that the elbow remains immobilized in a slightly flexed position, usually around 90 degrees, to promote healing while maintaining comfort. Patients with long arm casts often require close monitoring for swelling and circulation issues, given the cast’s extensive coverage.

A short arm cast is designed to immobilize the wrist and part of the forearm, extending from below the elbow to the hand, often leaving the fingers free for limited mobility. It is used to treat less severe injuries, such as wrist fractures, sprains, or carpal bone issues. The cast restricts wrist movement while allowing elbow mobility, providing a balance between immobilization and functionality. In some cases, a thumb spica variant is added to include the thumb in immobilization, such as for scaphoid fractures or severe thumb sprains. Proper fit and careful alignment are critical to ensure effective healing and prevent complications.

Leg casts are designed to immobilize the lower limb, facilitating the healing process for fractures, ligament injuries, or post-surgical repairs. They provide stability to the affected area, helping to alleviate pain and prevent additional damage. The design of leg casts can vary to cater to specific injuries, from simple foot fractures to more complicated multi-joint issues. The most common types of lower extremity casts include long leg casts and short leg casts. Different varieties exist between the two main types.

A long leg cast extends from the upper thigh to the toes, immobilizing the knee joint as well as the lower leg and ankle. It is typically used for injuries requiring stabilization across multiple joints, such as tibial or fibular fractures, severe knee injuries, or post-surgical recovery. It is ensured that the knee remains immobilized in a slightly flexed position, typically around 20-35 degrees, to promote healing while maintaining comfort. Patients with long leg casts often require close monitoring for swelling, circulation issues, and mobility challenges due to the cast’s extensive coverage.

The short leg cast is designed to immobilize the lower leg and ankle, extending from just below the knee to the toes. It is used to treat less severe injuries, such as ankle fractures, foot fractures, or severe sprains. The cast restricts ankle movement while allowing knee mobility. In some cases, a toe plate is added to a short leg cast to provide additional protection for toe injuries or fractures. The toe plate is an extension of the cast that covers the toes, shielding them from external forces and reducing the risk of further injury during recovery. It also helps maintain proper alignment of the toes, preventing displacement of fractured bones or soft tissue damage. Toe plates are particularly useful for injuries where direct impact or accidental movement could hinder healing, such as complex fractures or severe soft tissue injuries in the toes.

When a patient is advised not to put weight on an injured limb, mobility aids like crutches, walkers, or wheelchairs can be used to help with movement during the recovery process. These aids protect the injured area while allowing the patient to move around safely. For those who cannot use crutches due to balance or strength challenges, a wheelchair or knee scooter might be suggested as a more stable mobility option. In certain situations, partial weight-bearing may be permitted, and specialized footwear can be fitted over the cast for added support. For leg casts that allow weight-bearing, the under-sole is usually reinforced to evenly distribute pressure and minimize strain on the injury. Walking casts, as they are called, come with a hard, flat sole to aid in walking while ensuring proper alignment and stability. Other alternative for ambulation with an injured leg include using an