Serial casting how long

Most cast series are completed within three weeks but if the muscle is very stiff or tight, it may take longer. A cast series might need to be delayed due to events such as swimming carnivals and family holidays.

Aside from getting the cast wet, your child will be able to participate in their normal daily activities and this should be encouraged. If you are concerned about the discomfort, contact your physiotherapist immediately or remove the cast as per instructions below depends on type of cast. The cast may be causing pressure on a nerve and may need to be removed.

If your child persistently complains of localised pain, particularly around the ankle or heel bones, there may be a blister or pressure sore developing. Please contact your physiotherapist if this occurs or remove the cast if you have any concerns. This can cause moist, white skin but it is not a problem unless it is painful, which is uncommon. Itchiness under the cast can be a common issue.

The best way to relieve the itchiness is to gently knock on the cast. Do not stick anything down the cast as the skin is very fragile and may tear.

Very occasionally itchiness may be due to an allergic reaction to one of the casting materials. Qualified staff will give you advice on who to talk to and how quickly you should do it. Serial casting seeks to prevent this by stretching out muscle groups and tendons. The goal of serial casting is to increase range of motion and movement.

Casts can not get wet and if wet must be removed immediately. We recommend using sponge baths or obtaining an effective cast cover. You can expect your child should be able to crawl, kneel, stand, and walk in their braces. In fact, it is expected that the child engage in regular standing or walking in their casts if that is functionally appropriate for them.

If your child regularly navigates stairs, you can expect that they may need more assistance or guarding for safety with casts donned. Serial casting can be an important component of a comprehensive plan of care for your child at NAPA Center. For most children that would benefit from serial casting, it can and should be combined with other interventions such as strength training, balance training, functional electrical stimulation FES , whole body vibration , gait training , and bracing among others.

Think your child may benefit from serial casting? Ask your physical therapist for more information! At NAPA Center, we take an individualized approach to therapy because we understand that each child is unique with very specific needs.

We embrace differences with an understanding that individualized programs work better. For this reason, no two therapeutic programs are alike. Ryan, E. A Dose-Response Study. The goal: stretching muscles to allow for better movement and range of motion over time. Common diagnoses eligible for serial casting include: cerebral palsy, brain injury, spinal cord injury, and idiopathic toe walking.

Kids who participate in serial casting typically see improvements within several weeks. For example, children receiving serial casting on their leg may transition from only walking on their toes to walking with a heel-to-toe pattern. Their balance and participation in age-appropriate functional activities like stairs or running may improve, too! At the initial visit, a cast will be applied to your child. This cast will be made out of a thin sock-like material, followed by cotton wrap, foam padding, and fiberglass wrap on the outside.

While it should not be painful, your child may experience some initial muscle stretch discomfort. For a period of several weeks, the cast will be changed once a week, or more frequently if needed. Walking and standing are highly encouraged! In the case of leg casts, your child will be provided with a special shoe to limit slipping and ensure ideal posture.