Also, the cotton padding beneath is hard to dry. If it gets wet, your skin may develop a rash or infection. That means if you take a bath, you have to cover the cast with a plastic bag. You can also buy a waterproof sleeve. Depending on where your cast is, you may have to take a sponge bath. You use a wet sponge or cloth to clean the rest of your body. You can wash your hair in the sink or go to the beauty parlor. That way you don't risk getting the cast wet.

Luckily, some casts are also waterproof. This means you can get them wet without ruining the cast. Most of these are made of fiberglass. Also, the padding is not made of cotton. It is made of another waterproof material. With this type of cast you can take a shower or a bath without having to use a plastic bag or sleeve. You might even be able to swim! Be sure to check with your doctor first, though.

Second, never stick anything inside your cast. You could injure the cast or the skin underneath. But the skin under the cast often itches. What should you do? Here's a neat trick -- use a blow-dryer set on "cool." Blow air inside the cast. It really works, and it won't hurt.

Third, watch for cracks. Now, your cast may have cuts or cracks in it when it's put on. Doctors sometimes make tiny cuts in the side. This allows room for possible swelling. Many times your body will swell near the broken bone. This is the body's way of healing itself. The liquid under your skin protects the broken bone from further injury.