Lower Limb Fractures

Below Knee Cast

Below Knee Cast
Below Knee Cast
  • Do follow the hospital staff instructions regarding weight bearing (walking on cast)
  • Keep the limb raised all the time when sitting for example, raised on a pillow
  • Keep the toes moving
  • Cover the toes with a sock (to keep them warm)
  • Keep the cast dry

Walking Boot

Hard Boot
Hard Boot

If any of the following are noticed, please report to the A&E department:

  • Swelling of the toes
  • Blueness of the toes (other than bruising)
  • Pins & Needles of the toes
  • Coldness of the toes
  • Any REAL PAIN in the limb
  • Any smell or discharge from the cast (other than sweat)

Blood clots or Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT) can be a complication of having a limb immobilised following a fracture or injury. You may have had the whole leg or some of your leg placed in a plaster cast, a splint or a protective boot. Some patients who have a lower limb immobilised may be at a higher risk of developing a DVT and will need to take some medication to prevent this from occurring.

Remember, if your cast is going to be removed for the last time, plan ahead and bring the other shoe!!!