If a plaster cast gets wet, it can soften and fall apart. If the padding of a synthetic cast gets wet, it can irritate and damage your skin. Plaster and synthetic casts must stay dry. Don't do activities that can get your cast wet. Take special care to keep your cast dry when you bathe or shower. Also take care if it’s raining or snowing outside. To keep your cast dry:

• Take a sponge bath to avoid getting your cast wet, unless your healthcare provider tells you otherwise.

• Ask your provider when can you take a shower or bathe.

• Ask your provider about the best way to keep your cast dry when bathing or showering.

• If your cast does get wet, try drying it as soon as possible. To do this, use a hair dryer set to cool.

If your cast is damaged, it can’t do its job. To protect your cast and your skin underneath:

• Don’t stick things in your cast, even to scratch your skin. Objects put in your cast may get stuck. Also, your skin may be cut and become infected. If your skin itches, try blowing cool air into the cast with a hair dryer.

• Don’t cut or tear your cast. Cover any rough edges of the cast with cloth tape. (You can buy this at a pharmacy.) Never try to remove your cast yourself. If irritation continues, return to your healthcare provider. The cast may need to be modified or replaced.

• Don’t pick at the padding of your cast. Padding protects your skin and must be kept intact.

• Your injured body part tingles or feels numb.

• You have extreme pain that can’t be managed.

• Your cast feels too tight or too loose.

• Your fingers or toes swell, feel very cold, or turn blue or gray.

• Your cast is damaged, cracked, or has rough edges that hurt.

• Your cast gets wet or soggy.