Back slab
Back slabs are commonly used as a first-line treatment when the fracture is swelling or following a surgical procedure.
A back slab consists of plaster (usually plaster of Paris), wool and bandages. The plaster will set in 3 minutes but can take 48 hours to completely dry, it will feel cold and damp. The elevation of your limb is important when following a surgical procedure or injury.
Following a period of elevation, your back slab may begin to feel loose, a bandage can be wrapped over the top of your cast to make it secure.
Back slabs available
For every back slab
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Keep your cast clean and dry
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Arm: Making a fist and stretching fingers out will also help relieve swelling. It is very important to keep the joints, not in the cast moving. If struggling to make a fist, the opposite hand can be used to help fingers flex and extend.
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Leg: It's important to keep your toes and knees moving. Clench your toes and open them for 10 minutes every hour – this will help keep the muscles active and help the circulation.
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Leg: When you are either laying down or sitting, rest your leg on a cushion or pillow with your heel higher than your hip and your knee.
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In order to alleviate swelling/symptoms of swelling, the arm must be elevated with the hand above the ear whilst making a full fist and releasing fingers for up to five minutes each hour.
For every back slab
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Don't remove your cast
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Do not put plastic bags around the cast, these are not waterproof and can cause skin issues under the cast
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Never attempt to trim your cast
Further information regarding the care of your cast can be found here
Contact
For further information please contact the plaster room.
Cheltenham General Hospital
Tel: 0300 422 3148
Gloucestershire Royal Hospital
Tel: 0300 422 8411
Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 4:30pm