Topic Overview
Some children who have developed mild to moderate
contractures (knees, ankles, wrists, fingers, elbows)
may benefit from serial casting.
Serial casting is a temporary straightening and casting of the
affected joint (for about 2 days). The cast is then removed, the child goes
through some physical therapy, and a new cast is applied with the joint
stretched a bit more.
The procedure is repeated with the joint a little straighter each
time. This process continues until maximal straightening has occurred. A
resting splint may be worn at night for 3 to 6 months afterwards.
Serial casting may be able to restore the ability to straighten a
mildly contracted joint, but it is unlikely to improve severe
contractures.
Credits
ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerSusan C. Kim, MD - Pediatrics
Martin J. Gabica, MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerJohn Pope, MD - Pediatrics
Current as ofOctober 31, 2016