After breaking a leg, it is important to stay off your limb as much as possible in order to allow the bones to heal. It is also important to make sure the cast does not get wet, as it could lose its support and irritate your skin. Your doctor probably will provide you a list of items that will help promote the recovery of a broken leg. Call your doctor immediately if you experience increased pain, numbness or blue toes.
Leg Care
Depending on the type and location of the injury, a broken leg can take a few weeks to many months to heal. To help speed recovery, use crutches, a cane, walker or wheelchair to get around. These aids will help limit the amount of weight placed on the broken leg, which will reduce the risk of re-injury as well as promote healing. Ask your doctor about how to use these support devices correctly. When you are not moving around, elevate your leg by placing it on top of a couple of pillows. This can help reduce pain and swelling.
Medicine
To help relieve pain and inflammation, your doctor might recommend over-the-counter medication, such as aspirin or ibuprofen. For injuries that cause severe pain, your doctor might prescribe medication that contains an opioid, such as oxycodone. It is important to take the medicine before the pain gets too severe. Your doctor also might prescribe antibiotics to help ward off infections. Continue to take the antibiotics until the entire prescription is gone unless your doctor advises you to do otherwise.
Physical Therapy
After your cast comes off, your doctor might send you to a physical therapist, who can help you rebuild the strength and flexibility of your leg. It is important to make your physical therapy appointments and to follow through with advice your physical therapist provides. He might provide a list of exercises to perform while at home. Depending on the severity of your injury, physical therapy could last a few weeks to many months.
Other Considerations
To take a shower or bath with a cast or splint, cover the top with a plastic bag. Use medicine tape to affix it to your skin. Try to avoid getting the cast wet by showering or bathing with your leg out of the water. A wet cast can interfere with your proper healing. If your skin feels itchy inside the cast, use a blow dryer to push cool air into the cast.
