Can I get my cast wet?
With warmer weather, one of the most common questions we get asked is “can I get my cast wet?” There are many different types of casts that protect fractures and hand injuries. Below are the most common types of casts and if they are waterproof.
Fibreglass cast
A fibreglass cast is made out of a special material that can be shaped. Waterproof fibreglass casts include a waterproof inner lining which you can get wet in the shower and in the pool. However, we don’t recommend you get it wet at the beach as it can be difficult to drain the sand out of the cast. A non-waterproof fibreglass cast includes a stockinette lining which you can’t get wet. You will need to cover it with a plastic bag when showering.
Thermoplastic splint
Splints are made out of various types of thermoplastic materials. They come in different levels of thickness, colour and perforation. Thermoplastic materials melt with boiling hot water over 60 degrees celsius. It can get wet with cold water if you want to clean your splint. Depending on your injury, ask your Hand Therapist if you can get it wet. In some instances, the splint cannot be removed in the shower.
Plaster backslab
Plaster backslabs are made out of Plaster of Paris. They are more bulky and heavier than fibreglass casts and thermoplastic splints. You can’t get plaster backslabs wet and need to cover it with a plastic bag when showering.
