Medpedia

The content on or accessible through Medpedia.com is for informational purposes only. Medpedia is not a substitute for professional advice or expert medical services from a qualified health professional. Read more

Medpedia Answers

(Sports Medicine)

Medpedia Answers is a platform for asking and answering questions about health and medicine. Read more.

Can you swim with a cast on your wrist?

My son fractured the growth plate in his left wrist. He is in a cast up to his elbow. I know he can do the kickboard in swim practice, but is it ok to actually swim?
44 yr old, Female
44 yr old, Female
asked Jan 11, 2010 at 08:36AM in Sports Medicine
3 Answers
3 Following
↓ answer this question
Sort By Date Votes
  • 2
    Votes
    answered Jan 11, 2010 at 11:27AM
    In general, patients should try to avoid getting the cast wet or water inside cast. Infections can result from getting cast wet and the cast may then have to be replaced early. Of course check with your doctor before doing any water or sports activities while in a cast.
  • 0
    Votes
    answered Jan 11, 2010 at 01:04PM
    Thank you. He actually has a waterproof cast that dries quickly after practice. The doctor is well aware that he is in the pool with it on everyday, but my question is whether he can actually do his strokes with it on, or does that slow the healing practice.
  • 0
    Votes
    answered Jan 22, 2010 at 02:26PM
    In theory, the cast prevents movement of the bones and is specifically designed to allow one to perform activities without worrying about the bones shifting and healing incorrectly. In practice, no cast is 100% perfect and any strenuous activity will increase the risk of fractured bones shifting, thereby causing delayed healing or incorrect healing. I hope this helps.
The content on or accessible through Medpedia.com is for informational purposes only. Medpedia is not a substitute for professional advice or expert medical services from a qualified health professional. Read more
Editor Directory - browse by last initial
ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
Professional Directory - browse by last initial
ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
Cancel