How to wear a waterproof cast cover in the shower

‘Cleanliness is next to godliness.’ But, if your arm or leg is in a cast due to a fracture, showering can be tricky. Depending on the severity, your broken limb could take up to 12 weeks to heel, so unless you don’t mind the ‘ungodly’ smell, avoiding the shower is not an option. Your cast needs protection.

Keep your cast dry

The number-one rule when wearing a cast is KEEP IT DRY. Why? Well, not only will moisture be irritating to your skin, but it can also produce a build-up of mould or mildew and cause infections. Be aware that not even ‘waterproof' casts are completely waterproof because water can still seep through the openings. So, it makes sense to wear a waterproof cast cover.

If your cast does get wet, don't panic, but we recommend getting it checked at your closest Fracture Clinic.

Plastic bags and rubber bands

What is a waterproof cast cover? Well, it’s simplest, more ‘agricultural’ form is a plastic bag secured by rubber bands. However, this method is tedious and far from reliable. Thankfully, fit-for-purpose products are available.

Waterproof cast covers

Waterproof cast covers are made of plastic and designed to keep out water while you shower, bath or take a swim. They are reusable and easy to slip over the cast of your arm or leg.

Wearing a waterproof cast cover

Before putting on your cover, check for sharp parts sticking out from your cast. These could cause tears, so while taking care not to damage the integrity of the cast, file or sand them down, or cover them with a bandage or tube bandage.

You’ll see the cast cover opening is quite narrow. That’s okay; you can stretch it up to five times its size.

Once you’ve put the cover on, the opening seals tight to keep out water. Also, with leg covers, you’ll see there are skid pads at the bottom. Be aware that you shouldn't walk on leg covers consistently; the skid pads are there purely to stop you slipping in the shower.

Note: Waterproof cast covers are not designed for orthopaedic boots.

How to measure for  a cast cover

Waterproof cast covers for arms and legs come in two categories (short and full), which are then divided into four sizes.

To determine the right size for you, follow these instructions:

Arms

• Measure the circumference of your arm just above where your cast ends.
• Measure from the end of your middle finger to the top of your cast.

 Legs

• Measure from your heel to about 3 cm above where your cast ends.
• At approx. 5 cm above where your cast ends, measure the circumference of your leg.
• Especially if you have had foot surgery or are wearing a unique kind of cast, measure the diagonal circumference from your heel to the top of your foot.

Further Support and Guidance

Please note that the above guide is advisory only and should not replace any medical support or guidance.  We recommend asking any questions you may have regarding your cast and injury during consultations.  Do always take care with your cast, and never over-exert yourself.

About Heather Gatland

Chief Cast Cover Checker at Cast Covers NZ

After finding that Waterproof Cast Covers made life with a leg cast so much easier for showering and swimming, Heather wanted to help others to also have an easier recovery. So after extensively researching and extensively testing Cast Cover brands worldwide, Heather founded Cast Covers NZ in 2015. With her 5 years of “hands-on” experience working with medical professionals, hospitals, extensive business experience and Chartered Accountant qualification, Heather knows all the ins and outs of the Cast Covers market. Heather’s goal of helping kiwis, like herself has come true. Heather still loves researching and sharing her findings on the Cast Covers blog as well as enjoys supporting customers in getting back to feeling happy and active during their recovery.

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