Serial Casting
What To Expect
During the treatment, your podiatrist will apply a fibreglass cast (with padding) to hold the affected area in a position that will stretch a tightened muscle. Your podiatrist will re-apply on a regular basis so that it will stay on and secure the muscle in a stretched position for 5-10 days at a time. It is very important that the cast is professionally applied by your podiatrist as they will apply it in the correct position for your treatment and will ensure that it does not cause irritation.
The number of casts worn is determined by your podiatrist as it varies depending on each patient’s needs. Each cast is worn for about a week’s time and the treatment is carried out until the patient’s range of movement improves or reaches a functional level. For most patients, this is between 3-6 weeks.
Conditions Serial Casting Can Help Treat
- Cerebral palsy
- Spina bifida
- Spinal cord injury
- Brain injury or closed-head injury
- Congenital abnormalities
- Muscular dystrophy
- Idiopathic toe walking
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Arthrogryposis
- Syndactyly
- Other neurological disorders
FAQs
When applied correctly by an experienced podiatrist, serial casting should not be painful. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort as a result of this treatment, contact your podiatrist immediately.
Serial casting is a common treatment for children who experience idiopathic toe walking as it helps to stretch and lengthen the muscles and their range of motion. While wearing the cast, the patient can resume normal activities such as going to school and staying active.
If you are experiencing idiopathic toe walking or any of the above conditions, book a consultation at one of our My Podiatrist clinics today to evaluate whether serial casting is a suitable treatment for you. Contact our friendly team if you have any questions at all about serial casting or general foot care.