How to Shower with Plaster: Tips and Tricks for Maintaining Hygiene

Showering with a plaster cast can be challenging, especially if you have injuries like a broken ankle or arm. However, with the right preparation and assistance, you can maintain your personal hygiene effectively. This guide will provide you with valuable tips and strategies to help you shower with a plaster cast, ensuring that you stay clean and comfortable.

Challenges of Showering with a Plaster Cast

After experiencing a broken ankle and broken arm, I faced significant challenges when it came to showering. My ankle, which was a Trimalleolar comminuted fracture, required a six-month cast period where I could not put any weight on my ankle. To ensure that the cast and surrounding areas stayed dry and clean, I meticulously wrapped the cast with plastic wrap, duct tape, paper towels, and disposable plastic bags.

Steps to Prepare for Showering with a Plaster Cast

1. **Preparation Before the Shower:#160;** Place a water-resistant bench in your shower area and an additional one outside the shower. These benches will help you avoid putting any weight on your injured ankle. Use a knee roller to assist with movement from one bench to another. Ensure the bench is stable to prevent any slippage.

2. **Secure the Cast:#160;** To prevent water from getting into your cast, wrap it in a plastic bag and secure the top with string or tape. Make sure the plastic bag is tightly sealed to keep the cast dry and clean. Additionally, place paper towels around the edges to absorb excess moisture.

Alternative Bathing Methods

For some, a bathtub may be easier than a shower when dealing with a plaster cast. This can be particularly true for injuries affecting the lower body or a large cast.

Using a Bathtub with a Plaster Cast

1. **Stable Chair Positioning:#160;** Place a chair in the bathtub or shower stall that is stable and won't move. This will provide you with a sturdy surface to lean on while adjusting.

2. **Trash Bag Wrap:#160;** If your cast is lower on your body, wrap it tightly with a trash bag. Secure the top and bottom of the cast with tape to prevent water from entering. This method can be extended to cover the entire length of the cast.

Getting Partner Assistance

If you feel uncomfortable or unable to handle the shower process alone, having a partner or someone you trust to assist can make a significant difference. Here’s how it can help:

Partner Assisted Showering

1. **Use the Shower Head Correctly:#160;** Keep your casted hand above the shower head and let your partner wash you. This prevents direct water exposure to the cast.

2. **Personal Hygiene:#160;** Utilize dry shampoo and reusable baby wipes to maintain cleanliness in between showers. These are particularly useful for sailors who have limited access to showers during extended voyages.

Conclusion

With the right preparation and assistance, showering with a plaster cast is manageable. By following these tips, you can maintain your hygiene and enjoy the shower process, even with an injury. Remember, the key is to protect the cast from water and ensure that the area remains clean and dry.