How to Apply a Closed-Toe Fiberglass Foot Cast

The purpose of applying a closed-toe cast of any kind is primarily to protect the toes from injury. This is frequently done after a toe fracture, or after surgery involving the toes or areas of the foot closest to the toes. It is also frequently done to treat diabetic ulcers of the foot. Read on to learn how to safely apply a closed-toe cast made out of fiberglass material.

Things You'll Need

• Fabric mesh to use with fiberglass, cut into 3- to 4-inch strips by 24 to 36 inches long Fiberglass resin in bulk, OR fiberglass casting rolls 3- to 4-inch widths Cotton and/or synthetic padding rolls 3- to 4-inch widths 3- to 4-inch-wide stockinette, OR white tube sock Bucket with lukewarm water Rubber or latex gloves Walking boot or heel (if applicable)

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Instructions

Make sure the foot and toes are prepared appropriately

• 1

  Properly prepare the foot and toes for complete coverage by the cast. That means to properly dress any and all wounds or ulcers prior to applying the under-padding for the cast. This may mean placing a scant amount of cotton or lamb's wool between the toes to absorb excess moisture from sweat.

• 2

  Apply the stockinette material, which is a tubular cotton material that can be rolled up the leg and looks like a sock with no toe. If that cannot be found, a white tube sock or athletic sock will suffice. Do not used colored socks, as the dye may leech out of the material and cause skin irritation.

• 3

  Apply the cast padding. This is the cotton rolls that are typically used between the body and the cast. If you are using rolls, begin at the toe end of the foot and roll the padding up the leg, much like you would if applying an elastic bandage. Overlap your rolls by half the width to be sure of even distribution of the padding. It should begin at the toes and extend to about 2 inches below the bend of the knee.

• 4

  Cover the toes. Once the rest of the extremity is covered and padded, take several strips of cast padding and lay them over the toes from front to back, and top to bottom, overlapping evenly for best distribution of padding. One "anchor" wrap around the balls of the foot will secure the straps in their location. At this point, extra padding should be applied to bony prominences such as the knobs of the ankle, and areas over any wound locations.

• 5

  Begin applying the fiberglass rolls or strips in the same fashion as you applied the cotton wrap, beginning at the toe end of the foot and wrapping up to just below the bend of the knee. Overlap the rolls/strips evenly to maximize the strength of the cast. The toes may be covered in the same manner as the padding.
  Once finished, allow ample time for the cast to harden and lose its "tackiness." Avoid resting the cast on any hard surfaces, as this can cause flat spots, creating pressure areas.