Injury-guides

Diagram comparing short arm, long arm, short leg and long leg fiberglass orthopedic casts for broken bones

Types of Casts for Broken Bones: Arm, Leg, Fiberglass & Waterproof Casts

broken bone castRichard Katenhusen
Orthopedic casts are named by their material—fiberglass or plaster—and by the body area they cover, such as short arm, long arm, short leg or long leg. This guide explains every major cast type, compares fiberglass vs. plaster vs. waterproof casts, and shows which cast is commonly used for broken wrists, ankles, feet and legs.
Waterproof Cast vs Walking Cast Boot: Safer for Shower, Pool, and Beach Recovery

Waterproof Cast vs Walking Cast Boot: Safer for Shower, Pool, and Beach Recovery

ankle fractureRichard Katenhusen

A waterproof short leg cast can stay on in the shower, pool, or at the beach when medically approved. A walking boot often has to come off, creating slip, fall, and reinjury risk.

Comparison of a medical walking boot versus a short leg cast with walking cast heel showing why a cast provides better fracture protection and compliance

Walking Boot vs Cast: What Patients Are Not Told About Medical Boots

cast-vs-bootRichard Katenhusen
A walking boot may seem easier than a cast, but removable boots create fit, compliance, gait, tripping, and reinjury risks. Learn why a short leg cast with a walking cast heel or cast shoe may offer better protection for fracture healing.