When you break a bone, in an arm or in a leg, you may be wondering how to keep your body clean. Bathing can be difficult when in a cast, but this problem can be overcome. If your fracture requires you to wear a cast, your doctor may recommend keeping the cast dry while showering. Take precautions when you enter and exit the bathroom. If you accidentally wet your cast, call your doctor to find out what to do.
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Method 1 of 4: Getting the Cast Water Resistant
Step 1. Purchase a plaster cover
This is probably the easiest way to protect your cast from water because you don't have to prepare everything from scratch. You can ask your doctor or pharmacist for information about your plaster cast. Many companies manufacture protective devices designed to resist water.
- In general, the plaster cover is made of a waterproof material in the form of a long sheath. You can simply wear it to cover the cast. There are various sizes to suit the length and width of different types of casts. One of its main advantages, the plaster cover is much stronger than other options because it doesn't tear easily.
- Some cast covers even have a pump that can suck the air in the bag. That way, the cover will adhere tightly around the cast and provide added protection.
Step 2. Make use of plastic bags
If you don't have a specially designed protection, just use something you have at home. You can put the cast in a plastic clip bag to avoid contact with water.
- Plastic bags for newspapers, plastic bread wrap, or small trash bags can also work well. You can simply wrap the cast in a plastic bag and secure it with a rubber band or tape. Rubber bands may be more skin-friendly, and allow you to reuse plastic bags after showering.
- Make sure the plastic bag has no holes before you use it to wrap the cast.
Step 3. Try plastic food wrap
Wrapping your cast in plastic food wrap can be an effective way to protect it from water. Wrap the plastic food wrap over the entire surface of the cast, making sure that no part is missed. Then, use tape or a rubber band to secure it.
Keep in mind that plastic food wrap may be less effective than other options. While it's relatively inexpensive, if you don't do it properly, there's a chance that the cast won't close completely and water could seep in
Step 4. Wrap the top of the cast with a washcloth or towel
Whichever method you choose, it's important to do this step. Wrapping a towel or washcloth near the top of the cast will prevent water from seeping into the gaps under the cast. The moisture that accumulates under the cast can cause a skin infection.
Method 2 of 4: Looking for Alternatives
Step 1. Keep the cast away from water
Even if you have protected the cast as best you can, there is always a chance that water may seep in on the cast. Try to keep the cast out of the water completely after your injury.
- Try to take a bath. If your arm is broken, it may be easier to keep it out of the water by taking a bath. You can simply put your arm on the edge of the tub while cleaning the rest of your body.
- If you prefer to bathe in the shower, try to keep the cast away from jets of water. You can even place a broken arm outside the shower during a shower.
- However, even if you can keep the cast out of the water, it's best to avoid bathing or showering without the protection of the cast. A few drops of water is enough to damage the cast.
Step 2. Try cleaning yourself with a sponge
Besides the risk of getting your cast wet, bathing in the shower is also difficult after an injury, especially if you have broken a bone in your leg. If possible, try to shower with a sponge instead of showering.
- If your child is in a cast, it may be easier for you to bathe him with a sponge until he can get used to the cast.
- If you're an adult, try cleaning yourself with a sponge while standing by the sink. If you feel comfortable asking someone to do it for you, ask if he or she is willing to help.
Step 3. Ask your doctor for a waterproof cast
Waterproof casts are usually safe if submerged in water. If you think you have a high risk of getting your cast wet, ask your doctor if it's possible to use a waterproof cast.
- There are different types of waterproof materials. Ask your doctor what ingredients are right for you. Some ingredients may work better than others. Your doctor will advise you on the most suitable material for your needs.
- Keep in mind that waterproof casts are not 100% waterproof. It's true that waterproof casts hold water better than most other casts, but you should still be careful when bathing, showering, or swimming. Try not to let the cast get wet too often.
- A waterproof cast may not be the right solution if you have a fracture that requires mobility to speed up the healing process.
Method 3 of 4: Shower with Foot Cast
Step 1. Set up a chair in the shower cubicle
You have to sit down if you want to take a shower with a broken leg. Many people recommend using a park bench, but you should ask your doctor for advice. Ask for recommendations on the right type of chair to use in the shower.
- Make sure the chair is safe to sit on. If the chair is at risk of slipping on the bathroom floor, you may be seriously injured.
- You may need to install a non-slip mat to prevent the chair from slipping.
- Ask someone in good health to test the safety of the chair before you try to use it in the shower.
Step 2. Sit slowly in the shower cubicle
If you use a cane or walker, use it to walk to the bathroom. Turn your back towards the shower cubicle and sit down slowly in the chair.
- Use anything to hold onto. Try leaning against a cubicle wall, or bathroom handle if you have one. Keep in mind that some of the shower handles are not actually embedded into the wall. Do a test first to make sure the grip is completely secure before using it as a pedestal.
- Sit carefully on a chair and place your feet away from the jet of water. Turn your body so that you are facing the faucet.
Step 3. Use a handheld shower head to shower
That way, you can better control the direction of the water when you're sitting in the shower. You can direct the water where you want it, and keep it away from the cast.
If you don't have a handheld shower head, you can try showering with a main shower head and washcloth. You have to be very careful not to get water on the cast. Don't forget to always wrap the cast with a protective covering before taking a shower
Step 4. Dry the body while sitting
Don't forget to put a towel near you before taking a shower. You should dry yourself while you are still sitting. Don't get your hands and feet slippery when you try to stand up to get out of the shower.
Step 5. Stand up and get out of the shower
Turn to face the door and grab a cane, crutches, or other device you use to walk. Get up slowly and get out of the bathroom.
If you use a wheelchair, sit carefully when you get out of the shower
Step 6. Talk to your doctor before trying to shower in a cast
While this method may be considered safe, it's a good idea to ask your doctor's opinion before doing it. The doctor is the person who knows your current condition and can determine if you can try this method without serious risks. If your doctor doesn't recommend that you shower sitting in the shower cubicle, he or she may give you other suggestions or techniques for bathing safely.
Method 4 of 4: Handling a Wet Cast
Step 1. Dry the cast in case of accidental exposure to water
If the cast gets wet, you need to dry it quickly. This will reduce the damage and eliminate the risk of skin infection.
- Use a hairdryer to dry the cast. Always choose a low setting. Hot or warm settings can cause burns.
- You can also try a vacuum hose if you don't have a hairdryer.
Step 2. Call a doctor immediately if the cast gets wet
Wet casts may need to be replaced with new ones. If you accidentally get your cast wet, you should contact your doctor immediately. Make an appointment as soon as possible. Water seeping under the cast can cause a skin infection.
Step 3. Be careful when using a fiberglass cast
Fiberglass casts are more water resistant, and you can simply wipe them if the surface is wet. However, water still has the potential to seep under the cast, and can cause infection. Even if you use a fiberglass cast, you should still call your doctor if the cast gets wet.
