How to Trim a Fiberglass Cast

Fiberglass casts are often used in the treatment of injuries to the arms and legs. Fiberglass casts serve to protect your body as it heals, as well as hold your injury in position, allowing it to heal properly. They may be used to treat bone fractures, muscle injuries, ligament injuries -- and as a means of protection following orthopaedic surgery. With proper cast care, your fiberglass cast should remain intact, until it is time for removal. However, sometimes your cast becomes damaged and may require trimming.

Instructions

• 1

  Examine your cast regularly. If you notice your skin is breaking down around the edges of the cast or the edges of your cast have become rough, do not touch them or try to trim them yourself.

• 2

  Make an appointment with the doctor who placed you in your fiberglass cast. Only a medical professional should trim at cast.

• 3

  Attend your doctor's appointment. At your appointment, your doctor or a trained staff member, will use medical scissors or a cast saw to trim the edges of your cast. They may also apply an extra layer of padding to prevent your skin from becoming irritated. If the cast is too damaged, the cast may be removed and a fresh one will be reapplied.