Waterproof covers have recently gained ground as an alternative to waterproof casts. In this article, we will briefly describe the traditional approach to the problem of bathing or showering with a broken limb. This has traditionally entailed the use of waterproof casts.
We will then introduce the alternative technique of using a waterproof cast cover. We will discuss the pros and cons of this approach compared to that of using waterproof casts.
Casts have traditionally been used for treatment of certain types of bone fracture, such as a fractured arm, for example. The role of the cast is to hold the bone in its proper place while the fracture heals.
Traditionally, casts were made from plaster of paris, which made them heavy and unwieldy. Patients wearing these casts experienced significant loss of limb mobility, especially if they were children.
However, casts today are made from fibreglass, which is much lighter and more manoeuvrable. There is usually a cotton layer underneath the fibreglass. It protects your skin and makes the cast more comfortable to wear.
Bathing or swimming with a traditional cast is risky. If the inner cotton layer becomes wet, the result can be skin irritation and possibly an infection. So the cast must be kept as dry as possible, which traditionally places bathing or swimming out of bounds.
Waterproof casts have the standard outer fibreglass layer. However, the inner layer is made from a special non absorbent material that helps keep the cast dry, even after swimming or bathing.
These are a step forward compared to standard ones. However, they still present a number of drawbacks:
The drawbacks of waterproof casts have led to the development and introduction of waterproof cast covers as an alternative. You can use the cast cover for showering, swimming or bathing and then remove it afterwards.
The waterproof cast covers sold on this site are made from surgical latex. They use a vacuum seal to protect the underlying cast from water.
Waterproof cast covers enjoy a number of advantages over waterproof casts:
When using a waterproof cast cover, including the ones below, we recommend the following:
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The quality of the Dry Pro™ waterproof cast cover and bandage protector is unmatched. With the vacuum seal, it can’t even be pulled off. The cover will protect your arm and leg casts and bandages from exposure to water and thus the risk of infection. There’s no reason why a temporary arm or leg cast or bandage should prevent you from enjoying the water. Instead, just take a couple of minutes to slip on your waterproof cover and join your friends in the pool.
The quality of the DryPro Waterproof Ostomy Protector is unmatched. With the vacuum seal it can’t be pulled off.
The quality of the DryPro Waterproof PICC Line Protector is unmatched. With the vacuum seal, it can’t even be pulled off.
The quality of the DryPro Waterproof Prosthetic Leg Cover is unmatched. With the vacuum seal it can’t be pulled off.
