Patient Information Resources


Orthogate
1089 Spadina Road
Toronto, AL M5N 2M7
Ph: 416-483-2654
Fax: 416-483-2654
christian@orthogate.com






Ankle
Child Orthopedics
Elbow
Foot
General
Hand
Hip
Knee
Shoulder
Spine - Cervical
Spine - Lumbar
Spine - Thoracic
Wrist

View Web RX

« Back

My 16-year old son broke his leg skiing over the weekend. They put him in a lower leg cast that seems too tight to me. Is this okay? Should I say something?

Any concern you have should be addressed. There are problems that can be caused by having a cast on that's too tight. Acute Compartment Syndrome (ACS) is the most serious one. Rising pressure between the layers of bone, muscle, and fascia can cut off the blood supply to the leg.

Call your doctor and report any unusual symptoms. Pay attention to the temperature and color of the skin of the leg above the cast and in the foot or toes below the cast. They should be warm and pink or flesh-colored. Blue, black, or white are signs of blood loss.

Is your son complaining of numbness, tingling, or pain? Again, these are other symptoms of the cast being too tight.

Serious problems can be avoided by early detection and treatment. Trust your intuition and common sense.


References:

« Back





*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic.


All content provided by eORTHOPOD® is a registered trademark of Mosaic Medical Group, L.L.C.. Content is the sole property of Mosaic Medical Group, LLC and used herein by permission.