Shriners Children’s New England Highlights Waterproof Casting for Active Recovery

SPRINGFIELD — Summer is a time for swimming, vacations, and outdoor adventures, but for children recovering from a broken bone, wearing a cast in the scorching heat can make the season less enjoyable. While a cast shouldn’t keep kids from making summer memories, it does require extra care to prevent moisture, dirt, and damage. Shriners Children’s New England is highlighting the benefits of waterproof casts to help kids stay comfortable while they heal and allow them to still enjoy their summer.

Physicians typically see an increase in fractures during the warmer months as children spend more time playing sports, riding bikes, and enjoying outdoor activities. Recovery often requires wearing a cast for anywhere from four weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the injury and the healing process.

According to Keri Garry, a pediatric nurse practitioner at Shriners Children’s New England, the biggest challenge children face with a traditional cast is keeping it dry, especially in the summer.

“When a traditional cast gets wet, whether from water or excessive sweat, it creates the perfect environment for mold and bacteria to grow, which can cause unpleasant odors and increase the risk of skin problems,” Garry said. “A wet cast can also lead to skin irritation or infection. Even waterproof cast covers aren’t foolproof, so it’s best to avoid getting a traditional cast wet whenever possible.”

Depending on the type of fracture, patients at Shriners Children’s New England may be given the option for a waterproof cast, allowing them to participate in water activities during recovery. Waterproof casts look much like traditional casts and use the same fiberglass or polyester shell, but the difference is in the lining inside. Instead of cotton padding that absorbs and holds moisture, these waterproof casts use a breathable, latex-free liner that sheds water and dries quickly, making it easier for kids to enjoy summer activities while they heal.

Waterproof casts may used for fractures that require a straight cast, including many wrist, hand, forearm, and short arm injuries. While some casts that require a bend can also be adapted to be waterproof, it depends on the type and location of the fracture. Even if a waterproof cast isn’t appropriate initially, patients may be able to switch to one later in the healing process if continued casting is needed.

While not every fracture can be treated with a waterproof cast, Garry said patients are big fans when they’re given the green light to have one.

“For many patients, a waterproof cast can make all the difference. Kids don’t have to sit out many of the activities they enjoy just because they’re wearing a cast and are afraid to get it wet. Being able to shower, swim, and spend time outdoors more comfortably can make recovery a much better experience.”

Whether a child is wearing a traditional or waterproof cast, proper cast care is still important throughout recovery. According to Garry, sweating and itching are common complaints patients have while wearing a cast, especially during the summer. While it may be tempting to use a pen or other object to scratch an itch, it’s not recommended. These objects can become lodged inside the cast, irritate the skin, and increase the risk of infection. Instead, use a hair dryer on the cool setting to blow air between the cast and skin for safe relief.