Plaster Cast Colours Nhs? The 127 Detailed Answer

Cast technicians are the people who cast your arm or leg. We can use different types of plaster:

Plaster of Paris is a very creamy white material that dries overnight and that everyone wants to write on.

Scotch – Cast is a fiberglass material that is very light and very strong (but you can’t write on it)

Scotch – Cast comes in many colors, Red, Blue, Pink, Orange, Purple, Green and Black and you can choose your own color.

What you must not do to your cast is:

Don’t get your cast wet.

Don’t put anything on your cast to scratch it.

If your cast gets wet, don’t try to dry it with the hair dryer.

What you have to do:

If your child requires a formal fiberglass cast, there are multiple colors to choose from. The following colors are normally available upon request: Navy Blue, Light Blue, Green, Red, Black, Pink and Off White (default). Orange and purple are not usually available. There are no additional costs associated with a color cast.

Waterproof plaster casts

After your child has been diagnosed with a fracture and appropriate treatment recommended, you begin to wonder how this will all affect your child’s normal daily activities. One question is usually high on the list – especially in the summer months – “Can we have a waterproof cast?” The answer is, “It depends.”

Waterproof dressing material is applied as the bottom padding layer before the outer fiberglass layer is applied. This waterproof material can dry after exposure to water, but loses some of its shape and thickness over time. Certain fractures are unstable and are predisposed to displacement when there is too much movement within the cast; These types of fractures are best treated with the more standard non-waterproof cast. Still other fractures around the hand and wrist are more accessible to various non-removable non-waterproof ones. If you have a desire for a waterproof cast, you should consult your doctor at the time of the original visit before the cast is put on. Your doctor will let you know if they think your child would be a good candidate for this type of cast.

There is also the consideration of costs for some families. Most insurance companies will only cover the cost of a standard non-waterproof bandage. The additional cost of applying a waterproof plaster cast is $40, although this price is subject to change.

When your child is finally fitted with a waterproof cast, there are still a few rules to follow. Your child should swim in a pool and avoid the beach. Any material, like sand, that gets into the cast can cause irritation or worse. Remember that your child still has a broken bone and should avoid rough accommodation in the pool. After swimming or showering, your child should allow time for the plaster material to dry completely. Using a blow dryer on a cool setting can help with this process. As with any cast, you should never put anything on the cast, even to scratch the area, as this can cause skin trauma.

If your child is treated with a non-waterproof cast, the cast must be kept dry. Your child should stay away from pool areas as the temptation of water is strong and children around can often thwart your best efforts. There are devices on the market to keep casts dry; most of these don’t work well. These devices – or alternatively a plastic bag made from newspaper and a rubber band – are only to be worn for showering; However, the arm should still be kept up and out of the shower to avoid leakage. If a standard non-waterproof dressing becomes soaked, contact the office as it will need to be changed occasionally. For more plaster care instructions, see the plaster care link.

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Article overview

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Choosing the right cast color can make you feel a little better while your broken bones recover. Choose a color that you like as you will likely need to wear the cast for at least 6 weeks. If your favorite color is not available, you can choose a color that matches something you like, e.g. B. a sports team. For example, if you love the Yankees, you might choose a blue and white cast. You can also choose a lighter color like white or silver so your friends and family can sign it and the signatures are visible. Besides the color of the font, you can also choose accents like glitter or designs like swirls or dots. You can also add your own embellishments with stickers and paint. For tips on choosing a font color you can keep clean, read on!

A color cast is a usually undesirable color cast of a specific color that uniformly affects all or part of a photographic image.[1]

Certain types of light can cause film and digital cameras to display a color cast. Illuminating a subject with light sources of different color temperatures usually results in color cast problems in the shadows. The human eye generally does not perceive the unnatural color because our eyes and brain adjust and compensate for different types of light in ways that cameras cannot.

In film, color casts can also be caused by photo processing problems. Improper timing or unbalanced chemical mixes can cause unwanted throws.

Color casts can also appear in old photographs due to fading of dyes, particularly when exposed to ultraviolet light. These can be corrected on a scanned version of the photo using image editing techniques.[2]

Solutions [edit]

Example of a photo with a uniform green color cast due to different light absorption before reaching certain ocean depths.

The same photo with corrected color cast

Most digital cameras attempt to automatically detect and compensate for color casts and typically have a selection of manually adjusted white balance settings to choose from. Otherwise, image editing programs such as Photoshop often have built-in color correction functions. Blue filters and amber filters are used for films to counteract streaks. Amber filters are used to reduce the blue cast caused by daylight. Blue filters reduce the orange color caused by incandescent light.

Various color filters with different intensities are available. Kodak’s amber filters, for example, vary from pale yellow (“81C”) to deepest amber (“85B”). A photographer chooses the filter to use based on the quality of the ambient light. Color temperature meters can read the temperature of the existing lighting conditions and guide the selection of the filter. For example, a cloudy sky will require a lighter amber than a clear blue sky. If no filter is available, flash is an alternative solution, which usually provides enough neutral white light to counteract the color cast.

With film, if all photos have the same color cast, this usually indicates improper chemical processing. If the film itself does not contain a cast, it can be reused to create another set of photos under appropriate chemical conditions. If the film contains a line, filters can be used during photo editing to correct it.

Gallery [ edit ]

See also[edit]

A color cast can ruin your images or be a creative stroke of genius.

Because of this, sometimes you want to avoid (or fix) a color cast, and sometimes you want to add a color cast.

Buckle up, because this article will show you how to do it all!

What is a color cast in photography?

A color cast is a tint that affects all or part of your image. There are many reasons why you have a color cast – for example, because the light source has a certain hue.

Another problem is that the color from one object reflects onto neighboring objects.

In some cases, the color cast is a bug or a problem. However, as a photographer, you can use it as a creative element. For example, you can use color gels in your flashes.

How do I recognize a color cast?

The easiest way to identify it is to find something neutral like a white wall and see if it’s actually white. Remember that color casts are more difficult to see in the shadows, so start with the lightest parts of your image.

How to avoid color casts in photography

1. Set the white balance on your camera

All digital cameras have preset white balances depending on the type of light. Some even let you choose a custom WB using an image or adding the specific Kelvin degree value.

2. Use a gray card

Make sure you capture one of the images with a gray card. This makes it easier for you to correct the white balance in post production.

3. Separate your subject from color reflections

If a colored background or an object in the picture casts an unwanted hue on your subject – leave enough space between them to avoid problems.

Otherwise, you can try shooting it from a different angle.

4. Use color calibrated lights

Use a flash (speedlight) or LED light calibrated as white light. This way you avoid unwanted color tones on your subject.

How to fix a color cast in Photoshop

Start by adding a Hue/Saturation adjustment layer. Then use the hand icon to sample the color you want to adjust.

Use the sliders at the bottom of the panel to fine tune the range and how hard or smooth you want the transition.

Then use the Hue and Saturation sliders to correct the color cast.

If you want to apply these adjustments to part of the image, you can use the layer mask. Invert the mask to make it all black, making the adjustments invisible.

Then use the brush tool with white and paint over the area you want to repair.

Finally, adjust the opacity to find the perfect balance. Watch the video to see this technique in action.

How do I remove a color cast in Photoshop Elements?

Photoshop Elements has a special tool for correcting unwanted color casts. To enable it, open the Enhance menu and choose Remove Color Cast.

Then click on a part that you want to be white, neutral gray or black – the photo will automatically change color.

Click OK to accept the changes or Reset to try again.

How to fix a color cast in Lightroom

In the Develop module’s Basic panel in Adobe Lightroom, you’ll find a variety of tools you can use to correct unwanted color casts in your photos.

First, you can try the drop-down options next to the white balance tool. When working with a JPEG you will see fewer options than those shown in the video – which are only available for RAW.

If none of these work, you can use the Temp and Tint sliders. Drag in the direction of the color opposite of the color you want to correct. For example, if you have a blue color cast, drag the Temp slider toward yellow.

A third option is to use the White Balance selector (the eyedropper icon). Activate it and click on the part of your photo that should be medium grey. You can then use the sliders to fine-tune it.

You can use different methods for each part of your photo as shown in the example video.

How to add a color cast in Photoshop

There are many ways to add color casts when post-processing photos. One of the best techniques is using Adjustment Layers in Adobe Photoshop to introduce a tint and change blending modes to vary the way they affect the colors in the photo.

To add multiple color casts and apply them to different parts of the image, use layer masks. You can watch the video to see an example of how you can use this technique to transform a simple portrait into an eye-catching masterpiece.

Frequently asked questions about color cast

What does remove color cast mean?

This means adjusting the colors of your photos in post-processing to make your subject look more natural.

How do I remove a color cast from the ND filter?

Most auto white balance tools do a good job. If you want to use manual controls, you can use the color temperature sliders in your image editor. Most ND filters leave a blue cast, so you’ll need to add some yellow to compensate.

Is white light free of color casts?

Technically, white light has all colors. However, in photography, white light is the accepted light standard, which has no color cast – so you don’t need to color correct it. White light corresponds to the midday sun on a clear summer day, and so a flash is calibrated to emulate with artificial light.

last words

It’s that easy to add or remove a color cast – no matter what caused it. I hope you found this article useful and enjoy experimenting with toning in your photos.

What are plaster and splints?

Casts and splints are orthopedic devices used to protect and support broken or injured bones and joints. They help immobilize the injured limb to hold the bone in place until it has fully healed.

Casts differ from splints because they provide more support and protection to injured or broken limbs. They are made of materials such as plaster of paris or fiberglass that are easily molded to the shape of the injured arm or leg.

Splints, also called half casts, offer less support than casts but are quicker and easier to use. They can also be tightened or loosened slightly as swelling in the arm or leg increases or decreases.

Ready-made or off-the-shelf splints are available in many different sizes and shapes. In some cases, specially made splints must be used. Velcro fasteners make it easier for the patient or nursing staff to put on and take off the splint.

When are casts and splints used?

Casts and splints are used when a bone is broken. They can also be used after orthopedic surgery. Sometimes splints are used immediately after an injury due to swelling of the affected area. After the swelling has subsided, a full cast can be placed on the injured limb.

A bandage may need to be replaced during the healing process when the injured area becomes less swollen and the bandage becomes looser. In this case, the cast can be replaced with a splint to provide more freedom of movement.

What types of plaster and splints are there?

Casts are partially made of fiberglass or plaster of paris, which form the hard layer that protects and keeps the injured limb stationary.

Fiberglass has a number of advantages over gypsum. It weighs less, so the plaster made from it is lighter. Fiberglass is more durable and porous, allowing air to flow in and out. Fiberglass is a better choice if the limb needs to be X-rayed during the healing process. It is also available in a variety of colors.

Gypsum costs less than fiberglass and is more malleable (is easier to shape) than fiberglass in certain cases.

How is gypsum and fiberglass casting made?

Before the impression material is applied, a jersey is placed around the area that will be covered by the impression. A layer of cotton wool or another soft material (Webril®) is then rolled up to provide additional protection for the skin. The padding also provides elastic compression to aid in healing.

Band-aid comes in strips or rolls that are dampened and rolled over the padding. Paving materials are made from dry muslin treated with starch or dextrose and calcium sulfate.

After the process of applying the impression material is completed, the material will begin to dry in about 10 to 15 minutes. The temperature of the skin may rise as the patch dries due to a chemical reaction that occurs. When using plaster of paris, it may take 1 to 2 days for the plaster to fully set. The patient must be careful during this time as the patch may break or tear while it is hardening. The casting appears smooth and white after it has hardened.

Fiberglass materials, like plaster, are supplied in rolls. Strips are wetted and applied to form the cast. The plaster will appear rough after drying.

How do you relieve pain and swelling after the cast or splint is in place?

Hold the injured arm or leg up for 1 to 3 days after the cast or splint is put on. The injured limb should be in a position higher than your heart to allow fluids to drain.

The injured limb should be in a position higher than your heart to allow fluids to drain. Apply ice to the cast or splint at the injury site. The ice should be placed in an ice pack or plastic bag to avoid direct contact with the cast or splint.

What are some tips for maintaining the cast?

Avoid putting pressure or weight on the cast. If you have a leg injury and have a walking cast, make sure the cast is fully cured before attempting to walk on it.

If you have a leg injury and have a walking cast, make sure the cast is fully cured before attempting to walk on it. Keep the cast clean and dry. A blow dryer on a cool setting can be used to dry a fiberglass cast if it gets damp. Call your doctor if the cast doesn’t dry or the skin under the cast gets wet.

A blow dryer on a cool setting can be used to dry a fiberglass cast if it gets damp. Call your doctor if the cast doesn’t dry or the skin under the cast gets wet. Cover or wrap the cast in a plastic bag before you shower or bathe. Plastic cast covers with Velcro or rubber grommets are sold at some medical and drug stores.

Plastic cast covers with Velcro or rubber grommets are sold at some medical and drug stores. Do not put objects in the cast. Avoid using lotions or powders on the skin under the cast.

. Avoid using lotions or powders on the skin under the cast. Do not try to scratch itchy skin under the cast with a sharp object. This can lead to infection if the skin is broken or broken.

This can lead to infection if the skin is broken or broken. Call the doctor if you notice a strange or unpleasant odor coming from the cast. Sweat or moisture under the cast can lead to mold growth. The skin can break down and become infected if left wet for a long time.

Sweat or moisture under the cast can lead to mold growth. The skin can break down and become infected if left wet for a long time. Do not cut, file, or snap off rough areas on the edge of a plaster cast. A metal file can be used to smooth the rough edges of a fiberglass cast.

. A metal file can be used to smooth the rough edges of a fiberglass cast. Do not try to remove the plaster yourself.

How are casts and splints removed?

Your doctor will remove the cast with a special cast saw when the bone has sufficiently healed. The cast saw has a flat, rounded metal blade that vibrates. It can cut through the cast without hurting the skin underneath. The doctor will cut the cast in several places, usually along both sides of the cast. The plaster is then spread, opened and lifted off with a special tool. Scissors are used to cut through the protective padding and tricot layers, which are then removed.

What complications are associated with casts and splints?

Complications can range from minor to serious and can vary depending on how long the cast is worn.

Pressure points: A sore may develop on the skin under the cast. This can happen because the cast was too tight or didn’t fit properly, causing excessive pressure on an area.

Compartment syndrome: This is a serious complication caused by a tight or rigid cast constricting a swollen limb. If pressure builds up inside the cast, it can damage muscles, nerves, or blood vessels in the area of ​​the cast. The damage can be permanent if not detected and treated immediately. Call your doctor or go to the emergency room right away if you notice any of the following symptoms.

A fracture is another term for a broken bone. When we talk about fractures, we use specific terms to describe where the bone is broken, in what type of pattern, open or closed, and whether it’s displaced (pushed apart) or angled. Fractures can be nondisplaced (a tear in the bone), helical, segmented, or comminuted (multiple pieces). The more energy it takes to break a bone, the more damage there is to bone and soft tissues, and therefore to the bone’s blood supply.

Fractures are treated in different ways, and while some can be treated with a cast, splint, or splint, others require surgery to repair the fracture with plates, screws, nails, or pins.

Everyone who suffers a fracture heals differently. Factors affecting fracture healing, in addition to the type and care of the fracture, depend on the person who sustains the fracture. These include age, diet, general health, and whether or not you smoke.

How are fractures treated?

The goal of fracture treatment is to restore the normal alignment of the bone and anatomy so that the fracture will heal in the correct position. This sometimes requires the fracture to be manipulated or “fixed”. This usually requires some type of sedation and/or anesthesia and can be done in the office, in the emergency room, or sometimes in the operating room.

Nonsurgical methods of treating fractures include:

Plaster Casts: Plaster casts are a proven method of fracture treatment and can be made of plaster of paris or fiberglass. The purpose of the cast is to maintain fracture position and immobilize the bone to allow the fracture to heal in the correct position. Common fractures treated with casts include the hand, wrist, forearm, lower leg, ankle, and foot.

Functional braces: These braces are usually made of molded plastic that function like a cast for certain relatively stable or healing fractures. These can be removed for hygienic reasons.

External fixation consisting of set screws drilled into the bone above and below a fracture with an external frame. “Ex-fix” is often used for the temporary stabilization of open fractures or fractures with damage to the soft tissue until the fracture is definitively treated.

Surgical treatment of fractures

In open reduction fixation (ORIF), the broken bone is surgically exposed to directly repair the fracture with plates and screws. This is often used for forearm and upper arm fractures as well as tibia and ankle fractures. The broken bone is actually screwed back together, allowing for direct bone-to-bone healing.

Medullary Nailing (or Roding): A nail is placed into the medullary cavity of the bone and is usually fixed with screws above and below the fracture. This is an “indirect” treatment of the fracture, which usually does not involve surgically opening the fracture site. The nail acts as an internal splint to allow for fracture alignment and healing. This treatment is commonly used for fractures of long bones in the femur and tibia.

How long does it take for a fracture to heal?

Most fractures heal in 6-8 weeks, but this varies enormously from bone to bone and in each individual based on many of the factors discussed above. Hand and wrist fractures often heal in 4-6 weeks, while a tibia fracture can take 20 weeks or more.

The healing time for fractures is divided into three phases:

1. Inflammatory phase: Begins at the time of injury and lasts 1-2 weeks. Bleeding around the fracture results in a fracture hematoma, or clot at the bone ends. Damage to tissue leads to cell death, which is eliminated by an inflammatory response. The blood clot organizes itself into a protein network where the bone begins to “knit”.

2. Repair phase: Lasts for the next 2-3 weeks, during which the actual tissue repair takes place and new living bone, cartilage and fibrous tissue cells are created at the fracture site. This leads to the formation of a rubbery tissue called “fracture callus.” Calcium is deposited in the callus and can be seen on the x-ray 2-3 weeks after the injury.

3. Remodeling: occurs when the fracture callus is replaced with highly organized bone. The remodeling takes months after the fracture is no longer painful and appears to have healed on X-rays.

How can you support or speed up fracture healing?

1. Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the activity.

For example, some fractures may require early activity and weight bearing to speed fracture healing. Others need to be immobilized and avoid weight bearing. Muscle use in the injured limb increases blood flow, reduces swelling and accelerates the flow of nutrients to damaged tissue. It also helps reduce stiffness and muscle atrophy (shrinkage).

2. Diet: Eat a balanced diet. Protein, vitamins C, D and K are all essential for fracture healing. Calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and zinc are elements needed for bone formation and to speed up the healing process.

3. Smoking: If you smoke, STOP. This is probably the best thing you can do to help fracture healing. Smoking inhibits fine capillary blood flow, which is essential for healing.

4. Avoid high-dose nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen. These drugs can inhibit the early phase of fracture healing.

Make an appointment

Are you ready to return to a life of restored mobility and function? Make an appointment today with Dr. Bonatus or one of our orthopedists by registering us online at https://northazortho.com/request-a-visit/ or by calling 928.226.2900.

Taking good care of your cast will help ensure a better recovery.

Plaster casts consist of a bandage and a hard covering, usually plaster of paris. They allow broken bones in the arm or leg to heal by holding them in place and usually need to be kept on for between 4 and 12 weeks.

Cast care tips

For the first few days, keep your arm or leg on a soft surface, such as a mat, for as long as possible. B. a pillow, high. This will help reduce swelling.

Don’t let your cast get wet. This weakens it and your bone is no longer properly supported.

It is possible to purchase special covers for plaster casts to keep them dry while washing or bathing. Ask a pharmacist for more information. Do not try to use plastic bags, garbage bags, cling film or anything similar to keep the bandage dry as these are not reliable methods.

If your cast gets wet, contact your hospital or minor injuries department as soon as possible.

Always remove all coverings as soon as possible to avoid sweating which could also damage the cast.

Even if the cast is very itchy on the skin, do not put anything underneath it. This could cause a nasty sore and lead to infection.

Do not walk in a cast unless you have been told it is safe to do so and have been fitted with a cast shoe.

The itching should subside after a few days.

Medical aids for the treatment of broken bones

Orthopedic Cast A short leg cast with a fiberglass topsheet used to treat a broken foot. Other names body casts, plaster casts, surgical casts edit on Wikidata]

An orthopedic cast, or simply cast, is a casing, often made of plaster of paris or fiberglass, that encloses a limb (or in some cases large parts of the body) to stabilize and support anatomical structures – most commonly a broken bone (or bone) , in place until healing is confirmed. Its function is similar to that of a rail.

Plaster bandages consist of a cotton bandage combined with plaster, which hardens after moistening. Gypsum is calcined gypsum (roasted gypsum) that is ground into a fine powder by grinding. When water is added, the more soluble form of calcium sulfate reverts to the relatively insoluble form and heat is generated.

2 (CaSO 4 ½ H 2 O) + 3 H 2 O → 2 (CaSO 4 2 H 2 O) + heat[1]

Setting of unmodified gypsum begins about 10 minutes after mixing and is complete in about 45 minutes; However, the cast is not completely dry for 72 hours.[2]

Current bandages made of synthetic materials are often used, often fiberglass bandages impregnated with polyurethane, sometimes bandages made of thermoplastic material. These are lighter and dry much faster than plaster bandages. However, plaster of paris can be more easily molded to achieve a snug and therefore more comfortable fit. In addition, plaster of paris is much smoother and does not snag clothing or chafe skin.[3]

Cast types[ edit ]

Upper limb[ edit ]

Upper extremity casts encase the arm, wrist, or hand. A long arm cast wraps the arm from the hand to about 2 inches below the armpit, leaving the fingers and thumb exposed. A short arm cast, on the other hand, ends just below the elbow. Depending on the injury and the decision of the doctor, both variants can include one or more fingers or the thumb, in which case one speaks of finger spica or thumb spica plaster.

Lower limb[edit]

Newly applied short leg cast

Walking cast for short legs

Lower extremity casts are classified similarly, with a cast that encloses both the foot and leg up to the hip being referred to as a long-leg cast, while a cast that encloses the patient’s foot, ankle and lower leg and ending below the knee, referred to as short leg pouring. A walking heel can be used when walking. When properly fitted, these heels lift the toes and offer the wearer the benefit of keeping the toes off the dirt and moisture of the road. The running heel provides a small contact area for the cast and creates a fluid rocking motion during the stride as the cast can pivot easily in any direction. A resilient cast shoe (cast boot, cast sandal) can also make it easier for the patient to walk during convalescence. Additionally, a cast shoe can simply protect the patient’s cast foot and help maintain better hygiene by preventing the cast from coming into direct contact with potentially dirty or wet floor surfaces. If the patient is not required to walk on the injured limb, crutches or a wheelchair can be provided. The plantar portion of the foot of a leg cast can be extended and terminated at the tip of the patient’s toes to provide a rigid support that limits movement of the metatarsal bones in both weight-bearing and non-weight-bearing leg casts. These are called toe plates in orthopedic medicine. This addition can be applied to further support and stabilize the metatarsals by restricting movement through a higher degree of immobilization, as well as to protect the toes from additional blunt force trauma. Typically, for injuries to the foot and metatarsal bones, leg casts without a toe plate are prescribed. Typically, a leg cast used to treat a stable ankle fracture would not use the toe plate design as there is no need to immobilize the patient’s toes and restrict their movement.

cylinder [ edit ]

In some cases, a cast may cover the upper and lower arm and elbow but leave the wrist and hand exposed, or the thigh, lower leg and knee, leaving the foot and ankle exposed. Such a casting can be referred to as a cylindrical casting. If the wrist or ankle is included, it may be referred to as a long arm or long leg cast.

body [edit]

Body casts, covering the trunk of the body and in some cases the neck up to or including the head (see Minerva cast, below) or one or more limbs, are rarely used today and are most commonly used in cases of small children where they cannot be trusted to wear a back brace, or in cases of radical surgery to repair an injury or other defect. A body cast that encases the torso (with “straps” over the shoulders) is usually referred to as a body jacket. These are often very uncomfortable.

EDF cast[ edit ]

An EDF (elongation, derotation, flexion) cast is used to treat infantile idiopathic scoliosis. This corrective treatment was developed by British scoliosis specialist Min Mehta.[4] Scoliosis is a three-dimensional problem that requires correction in all three planes. The EDF casting method can lengthen the spine through traction, derote the spine/pelvis, and improve lordosis and overall body shape and alignment.

EDF differs from Risser-Guss. EDF casts are either above or below the shoulder and have a large mushroom opening at the front to allow for adequate chest stretch. On the back there is a small cutout in the concavity of the curve that does not go beyond the midline. It was found that the spine was better aligned with this cutout than without and that this helped correct rotation.

Spica cast[ edit ]

A cast that includes the trunk of the body and one or more limbs is a spica cast, as is a cast that includes the “trunk” of the arm and one or more fingers or the thumb. For example, a shoulder spica includes the torso of the body and one arm, usually up to the wrist or hand. Shoulder spicas are almost never seen today, having been replaced by special splints and slings that allow early injury mobility to avoid joint stiffness after healing.

A hip spica includes the torso of the body and one or more legs. A hip spica that only covers one leg up to the ankle or foot is called a single hip spica, while one that covers both legs is a double hip spica. A hip spica and a half encloses one leg to the ankle or foot and the other to just above the knee. The extent to which the hip spica covers the trunk is highly dependent on the injury and the surgeon; The spica may extend only to the navel, allowing for spinal mobility and the ability to walk with the aid of crutches, or, in some rare cases, may extend to the rib cage or even the armpits. Hip spicas are common to maintain reduction of femoral fractures and are also used for congenital hip dislocations, most often when the child is still an infant.

In some cases, a hip spica may only extend past the knee or across one leg. Such casts, called pantaloon casts, are occasionally observed to immobilize an injured lumbar spine or pelvis, in which case the trunk portion of the cast usually extends to the axillae.

Mobility and hygiene[ edit ]

The mobility is severely restricted by the hip spicast and walking without crutches or a walker is impossible because the hips cannot be bent. There is a serious risk of falling when the patient in a hip spica bandage attempts to raise himself to walk unaided due to the inability to control his balance. Patients usually remain in a bed or are dependent on a recumbent wheelchair or stroller. Children with spica casts can sometimes learn to become mobile by sliding around on skateboards or dragging themselves across the ground. Some children even learn to walk by holding on to furniture. A child in a Spica cast must always be supervised and safety must always be considered when they are in a mobile phase of their healing to prevent re-injury or damage to the cast. Many spica bandages have a spreader bar between the legs to strengthen the bandage and support the legs in the correct positions. It is important not to lift the spreader bar when moving the patient in cast as it could break and injure the patient. An opening is made in the cast in the groin area to make it easier to change the toilet or diaper and for hygienic cleaning. The opening is usually referred to as the “perineal opening”. It is formed either during the casting application or after the casting application by cutting the hole with the casting saw. The opening then needs to be petaled or lined to keep that area of ​​the cast clean and dry. Because the hips cannot bend, going to the toilet is difficult, if not impossible. Therefore, the patient must use either a diaper, bedpan, or catheter to manage the evacuation of bodily waste. Bathing must be done with sponge baths. Hair can be shampooed using plastic sinks under the head. To wash a child’s hair with shampoo, the child can be lifted and placed on a kitchen counter and their head held over the kitchen sink.

Other casts[ edit ]

The Minerva cast and Risser cast were formerly used to protect an injured spine or as part of the treatment of a spinal deformity (see Scoliosis), but are rarely seen today. The Minerva cast covers the torso of the body (sometimes extending only to the chest) as well as the patient’s head, with openings provided for the patient’s face, ears, and usually the top of the head and hair. The Risser cast was similar, extending from the patient’s hips to the neck and sometimes encompassing part of the head. Both plaster casts could be entered with care and with doctor’s permission during convalescence. In some cases, however, the Risser box extended into one or more pantaloons, in which case mobility was far more limited.

Aside from the common shapes mentioned above, body casts can come in almost any size and configuration. For example, from the 1910s through the 1970s, the use of a turnbuckle, in which metal turnbuckles were used to twist two halves of cast to forcibly straighten the spine prior to surgery, was common. The turnbuckle bandage was not of a uniform configuration and could be as small as a body jacket divided in half, or encompass the head, one or both legs to the knees or feet, or one arm to the elbow or wrist.

Despite the large size and extreme immobilization of some casts, particularly those used in or before the 1970s, the popular term full-body cast is something of a misnomer. The popular and media-driven notion of a massive cast enclosing all four limbs, the torso, and the head—sometimes leaving only small slits for the eyes, nose, and mouth—is a true rarity in recorded medical history, [citation needed] and this type of large-scale cast appears more frequently in various Hollywood films and on television shows. The term body cast (or full body cast) is sometimes used casually by laypeople to describe a range of body or cast casts, from a simple body jacket to a more extensive hip cast.

materials [edit]

Fiberglass and polyurethane casting material, 4 layers

Cotton and plaster cast material, (plaster cast) 4-ply.

Due to the nature of the dressing, the limb is inaccessible during treatment and the skin beneath the dressing becomes dry and scaly as the shed outer skin cells are not washed or brushed off. Plaster casts can also lead to skin complications, including maceration, ulceration, infection, rash, itching, burns, and allergic contact dermatitis, which can also be due to the presence of formaldehyde in the plaster casts. In hot weather, staph infection of the hair follicles and sweat glands can lead to severe and painful dermatitis.

Other limitations of plaster casts are their weight, which can be quite significant, thus restricting movement, especially in a child. Cast removal requires the destruction of the cast itself. The process is often noisy due to the use of a special oscillating saw that can easily cut the hard cast material but has difficulty cutting soft material such as cast pads or skin. Although removal is often painless, it can be distressing for the patient, especially children. A cast saw can cut, abrade, or burn the skin, but these results are uncommon.[5] Also, plaster casts disintegrate when patients wet them.

Because of the limitations of plaster of paris, surgeons have also experimented with other types of materials for use as splints. An early plastic-like material was gutta-percha, made from the latex of trees found in Malaya. It was similar to rubber but contained more resins. When dry it was hard and inelastic, but when heated it became soft and malleable. In 1851 Utterhoeven described the use of splints made from this material to treat fractures. In the 1970s, the development of fiberglass casts made it possible to create a cast that was lighter and more durable than the traditional cast, and also waterproof (although the underlying casts were not), helping the patient be more active.

In the 1990s, the introduction of a new cast liner meant that fiberglass casts were fully waterproof with this liner, allowing patients to bathe, shower and swim with a cast. However, the waterproof cast adds about 2 to 3 minutes to the cast application time and increases the cost of the cast.[6] However, drying time can be uncomfortable enough to justify cast and bandage moisture protection. These waterproof covers allow bathing and showering while wearing either a cast or fiberglass cast. The waterproof cast cover fits snugly around the cast and prevents water from ever reaching it while the patient is in contact with water. The cover can be easily removed to dry and reused many times.

Cast lining [ edit ]

Cast liners are often cotton. However, waterproof lining material is also available.

Washable Plaster[ edit ]

There are some washable bandages like FlexiOH that really provide good ventilation and ensure good skin hygiene. The patient can bathe and go out when it rains. This type of plaster cast has advantages that provide the patient with better treatment than traditional plaster casts such as plaster of paris or fiberglass.

distance [edit]

An orange short-sleeve cast with a fiberglass overlay that is cut and removed with a special cast saw.

Casts are usually removed by perforating them with a cast saw, an oscillating saw designed to cut rigid material such as plaster of paris or fiberglass without damaging the soft tissue.[7] Manually operated scissors, patented by Neil McKay in 1950[8], can be used on pediatric or other patients who may be affected by the sound of the saw.[9]

history [edit]

Hippocrates: a conventionalized image in a Roman “portrait” bust (19th-century engraving)

The earliest methods of holding a reduced fracture were through the use of splints. These are rigid strips that are laid parallel to each other along the bone. The ancient Egyptians used wooden splints made from bark wrapped in linen. They also used stiff bandages for support, probably derived from embalming techniques. The use of plaster of paris for covering walls is evident, but it appears that it was never used for dressings. Ancient Hindus treated fractures with bamboo splints, and the writings of Hippocrates detail the treatment of fractures, recommending wooden splints plus exercise to prevent muscle atrophy during immobilization. The ancient Greeks also used waxes and resins to make stiffened bandages, and the Roman Celsus, writing in AD 30, describes using splints and bandages stiffened with starch. Arab doctors used lime from mussels and albumen from egg whites to stiffen bandages. The Italian school of Salerno in the 12th century recommended bandages hardened with a mixture of flour and egg, as did medieval European bonesetters who used casts made from egg white, flour, and animal fat. In the 16th century, the famous French surgeon Ambroise Paré (1517–1590), who advocated more humane treatments in medicine and encouraged the use of artificial limbs, made wax, cardboard, cloth, and parchment casts that hardened on drying.

These methods all had merit, but the standard method of healing fractures was bed rest and restriction of movement. The search for a simpler, less time-consuming method led to the development of the first modern occlusive dressings, first cemented with starch and later with plaster of paris. Fracture ambulatory care was the direct result of these innovations. The innovation of the modern occupation can be traced back to four military surgeons, Dominique Jean Larrey, Louis Seutin, Antonius Mathijsen and Nikolai Ivanovich Pirogov, among others.[10]

Dominique Jean Larrey (1768–1842) was born in a small town in southern France. He first studied medicine with his uncle, a surgeon in Toulouse. After a brief stint as a naval surgeon, he returned to Paris, where he became involved in the turmoil of the revolution and was involved in the storming of the Bastille. From then on he made a career as a surgeon in France’s revolutionary and Napoleonic armies, which he accompanied throughout Europe and the Middle East. As a result, Larrey gained extensive experience in military medicine and surgery. One of his patients after the Battle of Borodino in 1812 was an infantry officer whose arm was amputated at the shoulder. The patient was evacuated immediately after the operation and transported from Russia via Poland and Germany. When the bandage was removed upon his arrival in France, the wound had healed. Larrey concluded that the fact that the wound had been undisturbed had facilitated healing. After the war, Larrey began stiffening bandages with camphor alcohol, lead acetate, and egg whites whipped in water.

An improved method was introduced by Louis Seutin (1793–1865) from Brussels. In 1815 Seutin had served in the Allied armies in the war against Napoleon and was at the Waterloo field. At the time his association was developed, he was the chief medical officer of the Belgian army. Seutin’s “Bandage amidonnee” consisted of cardboard splints and bandages that were soaked in a starch solution and applied damp. Depending on the ambient temperature and humidity, these dressings took 2 to 3 days to dry. The substitution of dextrin for starch, advocated by Velpeau, the man widely regarded as the leading French surgeon of the early 19th century, reduced the drying time to 6 hours. While this was a huge improvement, it still took a long time, especially in the harsh environment of the battlefield.

A good description of Seutin’s technique is provided by Sampson Gamgee, who learned it from Seutin in France in the winter of 1851–52 and encouraged its use in Britain. The limb was initially wrapped in wool, especially over bony prominences. The cardboard was then cut to shape to provide a splint and moistened so it could be molded to the limb. The limb was then wrapped in bandages before a starch coating was applied to the outer surface. Seutin’s technique for applying the starch apparatus formed the basis for the plaster cast technique used today. Application of this method resulted in early mobilization of patients with fractures and a significant reduction in the required hospital time.

Plaster casts[ edit ]

Gypsum from New South Wales, Australia

While these bandages were an improvement over Larrey’s method, they were far from ideal. They required a long time for application and drying, and shrinkage and deformation often occurred. A British diplomat, Consul William Eton, aroused great interest in Europe around 1800 when he described a method for treating broken bones that he had observed in Turkey. He found that plaster of paris (plaster) was molded around the patient’s leg to provide immobilization. If the plaster loosened due to atrophy or reduction of swelling, additional plaster was added to fill the space. However, adapting the use of plaster for use in hospitals took time. In 1828, doctors in Berlin treated broken legs by aligning the bones in a long, narrow box that they filled with damp sand. Replacing the sand with gypsum was the next logical step. However, such plaster casts were unsuccessful as the patient was bedridden due to the heavy and unwieldy casts.

c. 1960 A box of plaster bandages, 1960

Band-aids from Paris were introduced in various forms by two Army surgeons, one at a peacetime home station and another on active duty at the front. Antonius Mathijsen (1805–1878) was born in Budel, Netherlands, where his father was the village doctor. He was educated in Brussels, Maastricht and Utrecht and received his doctorate in medicine in Gissen in 1837. He spent his entire career as a medical officer in the Dutch Army. While stationed in Haarlem in 1851, he developed a method of applying plaster casts. A brief note describing his method was published on January 30, 1852; fuller reports soon followed. Mathijsen emphasized that only simple materials were needed and that the bandage could be put on quickly without outside help. The bandages set quickly, provided an exact fit, and could be easily fenestrated or clamshelled (cut for strain relief). Mathijsen used roughly woven materials, mostly linen, into which dry plaster was thoroughly rubbed. The bandages were then dampened with a wet sponge or brush as they were applied and rubbed by hand until they hardened.

Casts made of plaster of paris were first used to treat mass casualties in the 1850s during the Crimean War by Nikolai Ivanovich Pirogov (1810–1881). Pirogov was born in Moscow and received his early education there. After studying medicine in Dorpat (now Tartu, Estonia), he studied in Berlin and Göttingen before returning to Dorpat as a professor of surgery. In 1840 he became a professor of surgery at the Military Medical Academy in St. Petersburg. Pirogov introduced the use of ether anesthesia in Russia and made important contributions to the study of human cross-sectional anatomy. With the help of his patron, the Grand Duchess Helene Pavlovna, he introduced nurses to the military hospitals at the same time that Florence Nightingale was beginning a similar program in British military hospitals.

A bandage impregnated with plaster of paris c. 2005, still in the box.

Seutin had traveled around Russia to demonstrate his “strengthened formation” and his technique was adopted by both the Russian Army and Navy in 1837. Pirogov had observed the use of plaster casts in a sculptor’s studio, who used strips of linen soaked in liquid plaster to make models (this technique, called “modroc”, is still popular). Pirogov continued to develop his own methods despite being aware of Mathijsen’s work. Pirogov’s method was to soak rough cloth in a plaster mixture immediately before applying it to the limbs, which were protected either by stockings or cotton pads. Large bandages were reinforced with pieces of wood.

As time passed and the procedure moved more into the mainstream, some disagreement arose regarding the problems associated with disrupting air-to-skin contact, and some improvements were also made. Eventually Pirogov’s method gave way to Mathijsen’s. Improvements proposed as early as 1860 included making the bandage waterproof by painting the dried plaster of Paris with a mixture of shellac dissolved in alcohol. The first commercial bandages were only made in Germany in 1931 and were called Cellona. Before that, the bandages were made by hand in the hospitals.

When a cast is put on, it stretches by about 0.5%. The less water used, the more linear expansion occurs. Potassium sulfate can be used as an accelerator and sodium borate as a retarder to control setting time.

See also[edit]

Technically, the answer to the question, “Can broken bones heal without a cast?” is yes. Provided the conditions are just right, a broken bone can heal without a cast. However (and this is very important) it doesn’t work in all cases. Likewise, a broken bone that needs to heal without a cast may not heal properly. So instead of asking, “Can broken bones heal without a cast?” the more meaningful question to answer is, “Do I need to get a cast?”

How to heal a broken bone

Before answering the question, “Do I need to get a cast?” It helps to consider how to heal a broken bone. Just as a cut on the skin heals on its own, so does a bone. If the cut is small and the edges of the cut are close together, the skin will close over time. The larger the cut, the longer it takes to heal and the larger the scar. If strong pressure is applied to the skin, the wound will take even longer to heal and the scar may be larger afterwards.

The skin incision analogy can be used to help us understand how to heal a broken bone. If the break is small and the edges are close together, the bone is more likely to knit itself together. On the other hand, if the residual bones are far apart and/or too much pressure is applied to the bone, the broken bone will take longer to heal. It’s also more likely that the healed bone will be abnormal (like a large scar).

So the best way to ensure a broken bone heals properly is to create the right conditions for the bone to heal. The bones should be immobilized or unable to move relative to each other. Because it takes weeks for the bone to heal, the bone must be immobilized all the time.

After all, the body needs to have optimal nutrients for healing to take place. Bone healing requires calcium, natural hormones, vitamins and proper nutrition. Nutritional deficiencies, vitamin deficiencies, and certain chronic diseases can interfere with the natural process of bone healing.1 However, proper treatment of these issues can help restore bone’s natural healing process.

Do I need a cast for a broken bone?

When you consider what a bone needs to heal properly after a fracture, a cast makes sense in many cases. A cast keeps the broken bones aligned and close together for several weeks until the cast is removed. If the broken bone is in the leg, patients are also usually given crutches or even a wheelchair to take weight off the healing bone.

A fractured bone cast is required for longer bones such as arms and legs. Some may also need to get a cast for certain broken bones in the upper body, such as ribs, collarbones, and shoulders. On the other hand, people with broken fingers may not need a cast if the finger can be held in place with a splint or tape.

Essentially, a broken bone cast is required when a rigid cast can create the proper conditions for the broken bone to heal (see “How to Heal a Broken Bone” above).

Treatment options for broken bones

A cast is one option for treating a broken bone, but it is not the only treatment option. Other treatment options for broken bones include splinting, taping, bracing, placing the affected bone in a sling, and surgery. As previously mentioned, finger fractures are often treated with taping. Typically, a process called “buddy taping” is used, in which the broken finger is taped to one or both surrounding fingers. The hand can also be immobilized with a splint.

An air splint is a temporary way to hold the bones together until a cast can be put in place. An air splint is a long tube filled with air that provides some, but not complete, immobilization.

Some bones and fractures are best treated surgically. An orthopedic surgeon can use screws and plates to hold the broken bones in careful alignment with one another. The hardware can then be removed once the bone has healed.

Got a broken bone?

Bone fractures are treated by orthopedists. They are the experts on all broken bone treatment options, from taping to casts to surgery. Whether you need a cast or not, a broken bone should be evaluated and treated by an orthopedic surgeon. Regional Orthopedics orthopedists are leading specialists in this regard – they know how to heal broken bones from the inside and outside.

If you are interested in learning more about fracture treatment options, contact Regional Orthopedics for a consultation.

After removing a cast, it is normal to experience pain, stiffness and limited range of motion in the immobilized area(s).

Symptoms can last up to twice the immobilization time. For example, if the patient has been in a cast for 3 to 4 weeks, symptoms can last up to 6 to 8 weeks.

pain and stiffness

Minimal discomfort and stiffness is normal after the cast is removed. Tylenol can be used for pain and Motrin for swelling. You can also switch between Tylenol and Motrin. Elevating the limb above the heart is also beneficial to reduce swelling.

freedom of movement

Limited freedom of movement is expected. Physical therapy is not usually prescribed when a cast is removed because the limited range of motion resolves over time. Don’t force the range of motion. A transition splint is not always required because it can delay the return of range of motion.

deformity

Callus formation occurs at the fracture site. This is good and shows that the bone has healed. However, the callus can make the fracture site look deformed. It may take several months for the callus formation to remodel and even out.

Dry skin

Wash with soap and water. Use an alcohol-free lotion. Plucking at loose skin increases irritation. Dry skin can take a few days to a week to go away completely.

bruises

Bruising and discoloration after cast removal is not abnormal.

restrictions

It is usually recommended to refrain from running, jumping or exercising for a period of a few days to a few weeks. After that, you can return to activities at your leisure.

frequently asked Questions

Q: Why didn’t my doctor prescribe physical therapy?

A: It is not common to prescribe physical therapy after a cast has been removed. Children often have better results in regaining muscle tone and range of motion after the cast is removed if they continue with activities that are tolerated. Do not force any freedom of movement during this time.

Q: Why didn’t my doctor prescribe braces after the cast was removed?

A: It is often uncomfortable to work on the range of motion after a cast has been removed. It is not common to prescribe braces during this time. Further immobilization after cast removal only delays the return of range of motion.

Q: Why is my child still limping after his cast is removed?

A: It is not uncommon for a child to limp after having a cast removed from their leg. The x-ray shows that the bone has healed enough for the cast to be removed. However, once the cast is removed, the child must work to regain muscle strength and range of motion. This can take up to twice as long as the cast. During this time, your child may walk with their foot or leg extended or turned inward. As your child begins to increase activity, the limp may increase and decrease until it eventually disappears.

When should I call the office?

A color cast can ruin your images or be a creative stroke of genius.

Because of this, sometimes you want to avoid (or fix) a color cast, and sometimes you want to add a color cast.

Buckle up, because this article will show you how to do it all!

What is a color cast in photography?

A color cast is a tint that affects all or part of your image. There are many reasons why you have a color cast – for example, because the light source has a certain hue.

Another problem is that the color from one object reflects onto neighboring objects.

In some cases, the color cast is a bug or a problem. However, as a photographer, you can use it as a creative element. For example, you can use color gels in your flashes.

How do I recognize a color cast?

The easiest way to identify it is to find something neutral like a white wall and see if it’s actually white. Remember that color casts are more difficult to see in the shadows, so start with the lightest parts of your image.

How to avoid color casts in photography

1. Set the white balance on your camera

All digital cameras have preset white balances depending on the type of light. Some even let you choose a custom WB using an image or adding the specific Kelvin degree value.

2. Use a gray card

Make sure you capture one of the images with a gray card. This makes it easier for you to correct the white balance in post production.

3. Separate your subject from color reflections

If a colored background or an object in the picture casts an unwanted hue on your subject – leave enough space between them to avoid problems.

Otherwise, you can try shooting it from a different angle.

4. Use color calibrated lights

Use a flash (speedlight) or LED light calibrated as white light. This way you avoid unwanted color tones on your subject.

How to fix a color cast in Photoshop

Start by adding a Hue/Saturation adjustment layer. Then use the hand icon to sample the color you want to adjust.

Use the sliders at the bottom of the panel to fine tune the range and how hard or smooth you want the transition.

Then use the Hue and Saturation sliders to correct the color cast.

If you want to apply these adjustments to part of the image, you can use the layer mask. Invert the mask to make it all black, making the adjustments invisible.

Then use the brush tool with white and paint over the area you want to repair.

Finally, adjust the opacity to find the perfect balance. Watch the video to see this technique in action.

How do I remove a color cast in Photoshop Elements?

Photoshop Elements has a special tool for correcting unwanted color casts. To enable it, open the Enhance menu and choose Remove Color Cast.

Then click on a part that you want to be white, neutral gray or black – the photo will automatically change color.

Click OK to accept the changes or Reset to try again.

How to fix a color cast in Lightroom

In the Develop module’s Basic panel in Adobe Lightroom, you’ll find a variety of tools you can use to correct unwanted color casts in your photos.

First, you can try the drop-down options next to the white balance tool. When working with a JPEG you will see fewer options than those shown in the video – which are only available for RAW.

If none of these work, you can use the Temp and Tint sliders. Drag in the direction of the color opposite of the color you want to correct. For example, if you have a blue color cast, drag the Temp slider toward yellow.

A third option is to use the White Balance selector (the eyedropper icon). Activate it and click on the part of your photo that should be medium grey. You can then use the sliders to fine-tune it.

You can use different methods for each part of your photo as shown in the example video.

How to add a color cast in Photoshop

There are many ways to add color casts when post-processing photos. One of the best techniques is using Adjustment Layers in Adobe Photoshop to introduce a tint and change blending modes to vary the way they affect the colors in the photo.

To add multiple color casts and apply them to different parts of the image, use layer masks. You can watch the video to see an example of how you can use this technique to transform a simple portrait into an eye-catching masterpiece.

Frequently asked questions about color cast

What does remove color cast mean?

This means adjusting the colors of your photos in post-processing to make your subject look more natural.

How do I remove a color cast from the ND filter?

Most auto white balance tools do a good job. If you want to use manual controls, you can use the color temperature sliders in your image editor. Most ND filters leave a blue cast, so you’ll need to add some yellow to compensate.

Is white light free of color casts?

Technically, white light has all colors. However, in photography, white light is the accepted light standard, which has no color cast – so you don’t need to color correct it. White light corresponds to the midday sun on a clear summer day, and so a flash is calibrated to emulate with artificial light.

last words

It’s that easy to add or remove a color cast – no matter what caused it. I hope you found this article useful and enjoy experimenting with toning in your photos.

Mini colored plaster planters! It’s a clever and colorful DIY that you must try!

I used to do quite a bit of crafting with Parisian plaster, but have recently switched to concrete for projects I would have done earlier with plaster. It’s the exact same process and I love the look of concrete so it made sense.

BUT a while back I was thinking of adding color to the plaster for some mini planters I wanted to make. I did some research on the internet but couldn’t find a solution anywhere.

Probably because the powder consistency of plaster of paris is pretty important for setting it up properly etc. So it’s not just about throwing in some acrylic paint and calling it a day.

And yes, it’s true that I could just paint them after they’re done, which I’ve done before. But I wanted the color to be part of the material, not an afterthought. The texture is different etc.

So after some experimentation I ended up with something that actually works! It tints plaster in almost any desired color without changing the consistency of the plaster. And now that I found out, I wanted to… 1) share it with you in case you want to try it yourself. And 2) I will use this technique a lot more than necessary. Haha.

Click through the “secret ingredient” that makes this process possible AND my easy tutorial on making pastel colored mini cactus and succulent planters.

Materials needed for mini planters

Gypsum Powder (available from Amazon – also known as gypsum)

Powdered Tempera Paint – THIS IS THE SECRET INGREDIENT (many options on Amazon, I’ve used this brand but any will work)

Silicone shot glass molds (that’s exactly what I used, but there are many more on Amazon)

matte medium (to seal the plaster)

Paint brush

Sandpaper (fine grit)

Where to buy Plaster of Paris

If you’d rather not buy Plaster of Paris from Amazon, there are many other places where you can find this affordable crafting material.

You can typically find Plaster of Paris at craft and art supply stores like JoAnn’s, Michaels, and Dick Blick. Sometimes it is in the children’s craft area. But you can also find Plaster of Paris at hardware stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot, and places like Walmart and Target.

Some of these are also available online, so I’ve linked them above just in case.

Where can I find rubber molds for plaster of paris?

There are so many options out there. But any silicone or rubber mold works well, whether it’s for food or crafts. Just be aware, if you use a food mold to craft, it won’t stick to crafting until after. Once used for plasters, do not switch back to food use.

For example, I used silicone shot glass molds to make these mini planters because they were the perfect shape for what I was looking for. But you can also use ice cube molds, chocolate molds, etc. Or just skip the food molds and go straight to the craft molds that you can find from independent sellers all over Etsy.

What else can I use as a mold for plaster of paris?

You are also not limited to using silicone or rubber molds for plaster projects. You can also use recyclable items around your home like milk cartons or thin plastic containers from individual cups of oatmeal, yogurt, macaroni and cheese, etc.

You can even use something like a shipping tube like I did for this DIY concrete vase. Just follow the directions for this tutorial and swap out the concrete for plaster of paris…and still use the cooking spray.

There are endless possibilities for plaster of paris crafts.

How to make colored plaster

In a medium sized container, mix 5 parts plaster of paris in a 5 to 1 ratio, then add 1 part tempera powder to the bowl. Stir together until an even color is achieved.

FYI – To be honest you could probably use less powdered tempera than that. It really doesn’t take much. The more color you add, the more vibrant it becomes. If you add too much it will eventually cause the plaster to set improperly or not at all.

How to make mini colored plaster planters

1. Once you have mixed the colored plaster you want to use for this Paris plaster model, you can start making the mini planters.

2. Pour water into the bowl, stirring, until you have a consistency similar to pancake batter (a little thicker than that is still fine).

Plaster sets very quickly, so you’ll have to work fast.

3. Pour the mixture into a silicone mold or scoop it in with a spoon.

Gently pat the filled molds on a flat surface to remove air bubbles, then set aside until set (1-2 hours should be fine).

4. Once they feel quite hard, unmold the mini planters one at a time.

5. Use a fine sandpaper to sand down the bottom of each planet in case there are any bumps.

Then, if possible, allow the planters to air dry for a full 24 hours.

6. Next, seal each mini planter with a matte medium which basically forms a thin layer of plastic so they are no longer soluble (important if you are putting plants in).

Wait for the matte medium to dry completely before planting succulents and cacti.

I found small succulent cuttings to be perfect for this size of starter planter. And when the plant outgrows the container, you can transplant it in a larger version.

Print this! Pin that! How to Make Colored Plaster I used to do quite a bit of crafting with plaster from Paris, but have recently switched to concrete for projects I would have done earlier with plaster. It’s the exact same process and I love the look of concrete so it made sense. BUT a while back I was thinking of adding color to the plaster for some mini planters I wanted to make. I did some research on the internet but couldn’t find a solution anywhere. Probably because the powder consistency of plaster of paris is pretty important for setting it up properly etc. So it’s not just about throwing in some acrylic paint and calling it a day. And yes, it’s true that I could just paint them after they’re done, which I’ve done before. But I wanted the color to be part of the material, not an afterthought. The texture is different etc etc. So after some experimentation I ended up with something that actually works! It tints plaster in almost any desired color without changing the consistency of the plaster. Total time 5 minutes Ingredients Plaster powder available on Amazon – aka Plaster of Paris

Powdered Tempera Paint – THIS IS THE SECRET INGREDIENT. Lots of options on Amazon. I have used this brand but each works the shell. Stir together until an even color is achieved.

FYI – To be honest you could probably use less powdered tempera than that. It really doesn’t take much. The more color you add, the more vibrant it becomes. If you add too much it will eventually cause the plaster to set improperly or not at all. Tips Where to Buy Plaster of Paris If you’d rather not buy Plaster of Paris from Amazon, there are many other places where you can find this affordable crafting material. You can typically find Plaster of Paris at craft and art supply stores like JoAnn’s, Michaels, and Dick Blick. Sometimes it is in the children’s craft area. But you can also find Plaster of Paris at hardware stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot, and places like Walmart and Target. Some of these are also available online, so I’ve linked them above just in case. Where to Find Plaster Rubber Molds There are so many choices out there. But any silicone or rubber mold works well, whether it’s for food or crafts. Just be aware, if you use a food mold to craft, it won’t stick to crafting until after. After using for plasters, do not switch back to food use. For example, I used silicone shot glass molds to make these mini planters because they were the perfect shape for what I was looking for. But you can also use ice cube molds, chocolate molds, etc. Or just skip the food molds and go straight to the craft molds that you can find from independent sellers all over Etsy. What else can I use as a mold for plaster of paris? You are also not limited to using silicone or rubber molds for plaster projects. You can also use recyclable items around your house, like milk cartons or thin plastic containers made from individual tubs of oatmeal, yogurt, macaroni and cheese, etc. You can even use something like a shipping tube, like I did for this DIY concrete vase. Just follow the instructions for this tutorial and swap out the concrete for plaster… and keep using the cooking spray. There are endless possibilities for plaster of paris crafts. Tried this recipe? Mention @paperandstitch or tag #paperandstitch

Print this! Pin that! DIY Colored Gips of Paris Mini Planters Mini planters made out of colored plaster! It’s a clever and colorful DIY that you must try! After some experimentation I landed on something that actually works for creating colored plaster! It tints plaster in almost any desired color without changing the consistency of the plaster. Prep Time 10 minutes Total Time 1 hr Servings: 40 planters or more Author: Brittni Cost: $15 Ingredients Gypsum Powder available on Amazon – aka Plaster of Paris

Powdered Tempera Paint – THIS IS THE SECRET INGREDIENT Lots of options on Amazon, I’ve used this brand but any will work

Silicone shot glass molds, that’s exactly what I used, but there are many more available on Amazon

matt medium for sealing the plaster

Paint brush

Fine grit sandpaper Instructions After you have mixed together the colored plaster you want to use for this plaster model, you are ready to start making the mini planters.

Whisk water into the bowl, stirring, until you have a consistency similar to pancake batter (a little thicker than that is still fine).

Plaster sets very quickly, so you’ll have to work fast.

Pour the mixture into a silicone mold or scoop it in with a spoon.

Gently pat the filled molds on a flat surface to remove any air bubbles, then set aside until set (1-2 hours should be fine).

Once they feel quite hard, unmold the mini planters one at a time.

Use a fine sandpaper to sand down the bottom of each planet if there are any bumps.

Then, if possible, allow the planters to air dry for a full 24 hours.

Next, seal each mini planter with a matte medium, which basically forms a thin layer of plastic, so they’re no longer soluble (important if you’re putting plants in them).

Wait for the matte medium to dry completely before planting succulents and cacti.

I found small succulent cuttings to be perfect for this size of starter planter. And when the plant outgrows the container, you can transplant it in a larger version. Tried this recipe? Mention @paperandstitch or tag #paperandstitch

Photography Amelia Tatnall

Styled by Brittni Mehlhoff

Think you’re going to try this mini planter project? What do you think of all the pastel colors?

Taking good care of your cast will help ensure a better recovery.

Plaster casts consist of a bandage and a hard covering, usually plaster of paris. They allow broken bones in the arm or leg to heal by holding them in place and usually need to be kept on for between 4 and 12 weeks.

Cast care tips

For the first few days, keep your arm or leg on a soft surface, such as a mat, for as long as possible. B. a pillow, high. This will help reduce swelling.

Don’t let your cast get wet. This weakens it and your bone is no longer properly supported.

It is possible to purchase special covers for plaster casts to keep them dry while washing or bathing. Ask a pharmacist for more information. Do not try to use plastic bags, garbage bags, cling film or anything similar to keep the bandage dry as these are not reliable methods.

If your cast gets wet, contact your hospital or minor injuries department as soon as possible.

Always remove all coverings as soon as possible to avoid sweating which could also damage the cast.

Even if the cast is very itchy on the skin, do not put anything underneath it. This could cause a nasty sore and lead to infection.

Do not walk in a cast unless you have been told it is safe to do so and have been fitted with a cast shoe.

The itching should subside after a few days.

What are plaster and splints?

Casts and splints are orthopedic devices used to protect and support broken or injured bones and joints. They help immobilize the injured limb to hold the bone in place until it has fully healed.

Casts differ from splints because they provide more support and protection to injured or broken limbs. They are made of materials such as plaster of paris or fiberglass that are easily molded to the shape of the injured arm or leg.

Splints, also called half casts, offer less support than casts but are quicker and easier to use. They can also be tightened or loosened slightly as swelling in the arm or leg increases or decreases.

Ready-made or off-the-shelf splints are available in many different sizes and shapes. In some cases, specially made splints must be used. Velcro fasteners make it easier for the patient or nursing staff to put on and take off the splint.

When are casts and splints used?

Casts and splints are used when a bone is broken. They can also be used after orthopedic surgery. Sometimes splints are used immediately after an injury due to swelling of the affected area. After the swelling has subsided, a full cast can be placed on the injured limb.

A bandage may need to be replaced during the healing process when the injured area becomes less swollen and the bandage becomes looser. In this case, the cast can be replaced with a splint to provide more freedom of movement.

What types of plaster and splints are there?

Casts are partially made of fiberglass or plaster of paris, which form the hard layer that protects and keeps the injured limb stationary.

Fiberglass has a number of advantages over gypsum. It weighs less, so the plaster made from it is lighter. Fiberglass is more durable and porous, allowing air to flow in and out. Fiberglass is a better choice if the limb needs to be X-rayed during the healing process. It is also available in a variety of colors.

Gypsum costs less than fiberglass and is more malleable (is easier to shape) than fiberglass in certain cases.

How is gypsum and fiberglass casting made?

Before the impression material is applied, a jersey is placed around the area that will be covered by the impression. A layer of cotton wool or another soft material (Webril®) is then rolled up to provide additional protection for the skin. The padding also provides elastic compression to aid in healing.

Band-aid comes in strips or rolls that are dampened and rolled over the padding. Paving materials are made from dry muslin treated with starch or dextrose and calcium sulfate.

After the process of applying the impression material is completed, the material will begin to dry in about 10 to 15 minutes. The temperature of the skin may rise as the patch dries due to a chemical reaction that occurs. When using plaster of paris, it may take 1 to 2 days for the plaster to fully set. The patient must be careful during this time as the patch may break or tear while it is hardening. The casting appears smooth and white after it has hardened.

Fiberglass materials, like plaster, are supplied in rolls. Strips are wetted and applied to form the cast. The plaster will appear rough after drying.

How do you relieve pain and swelling after the cast or splint is in place?

Hold the injured arm or leg up for 1 to 3 days after the cast or splint is put on. The injured limb should be in a position higher than your heart to allow fluids to drain.

The injured limb should be in a position higher than your heart to allow fluids to drain. Apply ice to the cast or splint at the injury site. The ice should be placed in an ice pack or plastic bag to avoid direct contact with the cast or splint.

What are some tips for maintaining the cast?

Avoid putting pressure or weight on the cast. If you have a leg injury and have a walking cast, make sure the cast is fully cured before attempting to walk on it.

If you have a leg injury and have a walking cast, make sure the cast is fully cured before attempting to walk on it. Keep the cast clean and dry. A blow dryer on a cool setting can be used to dry a fiberglass cast if it gets damp. Call your doctor if the cast doesn’t dry or the skin under the cast gets wet.

A blow dryer on a cool setting can be used to dry a fiberglass cast if it gets damp. Call your doctor if the cast doesn’t dry or the skin under the cast gets wet. Cover or wrap the cast in a plastic bag before you shower or bathe. Plastic cast covers with Velcro or rubber grommets are sold at some medical and drug stores.

Plastic cast covers with Velcro or rubber grommets are sold at some medical and drug stores. Do not put objects in the cast. Avoid using lotions or powders on the skin under the cast.

. Avoid using lotions or powders on the skin under the cast. Do not try to scratch itchy skin under the cast with a sharp object. This can lead to infection if the skin is broken or broken.

This can lead to infection if the skin is broken or broken. Call the doctor if you notice a strange or unpleasant odor coming from the cast. Sweat or moisture under the cast can lead to mold growth. The skin can break down and become infected if left wet for a long time.

Sweat or moisture under the cast can lead to mold growth. The skin can break down and become infected if left wet for a long time. Do not cut, file, or snap off rough areas on the edge of a plaster cast. A metal file can be used to smooth the rough edges of a fiberglass cast.

. A metal file can be used to smooth the rough edges of a fiberglass cast. Do not try to remove the plaster yourself.

How are casts and splints removed?

Your doctor will remove the cast with a special cast saw when the bone has sufficiently healed. The cast saw has a flat, rounded metal blade that vibrates. It can cut through the cast without hurting the skin underneath. The doctor will cut the cast in several places, usually along both sides of the cast. The plaster is then spread, opened and lifted off with a special tool. Scissors are used to cut through the protective padding and tricot layers, which are then removed.

What complications are associated with casts and splints?

Complications can range from minor to serious and can vary depending on how long the cast is worn.

Pressure points: A sore may develop on the skin under the cast. This can happen because the cast was too tight or didn’t fit properly, causing excessive pressure on an area.

Compartment syndrome: This is a serious complication caused by a tight or rigid cast constricting a swollen limb. If pressure builds up inside the cast, it can damage muscles, nerves, or blood vessels in the area of ​​the cast. The damage can be permanent if not detected and treated immediately. Call your doctor or go to the emergency room right away if you notice any of the following symptoms.