Spica Cast FAQs: A Guide for Parents and Carers
A Spica cast can be an important part of a child’s recovery following hip surgery, injury or other treatment, but it can also bring some practical challenges for everyday life. From bathing and dressing to sleeping, getting around and using specialist seating, families often have questions about what to expect.
We’ve answered some of the most common questions about Spica casts in children, with general information to help families prepare for the recovery period. Your child’s hospital or clinical team should always provide individual advice about their treatment, cast and care.
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Why would a child need a Spica cast?
How long does a Spica cast stay on for?
How should I bathe a child in a Spica cast?
How should a child sleep in a Spica cast?
Can my child walk in a Spica cast?
Can I change my child’s nappy in a Spica cast?
How do you transport a child in a Spica cast?
How can I keep my child comfortable in a Spica cast?
Why would a child need a spica cast?
A Spica cast is used to keep the hip, pelvis or thigh in a particular position while an injury or surgical treatment heals. It is most commonly used following certain types of hip surgery, but may also be used following treatment for a broken thigh bone (femur) or other conditions affecting the hip or upper leg.
How long does a spica cast stay on for?
The length of time a child needs to wear a Spica cast varies depending on their surgery, injury or treatment. You child’s surgeon will decide how long the cast needs to remain in place and when it should be removed or changed. For some children, a Spica cast may be needed for several weeks. Your hospital team should give you information about your child’s expected treatment and arrange any appointments needed to remove or change the cast.
How should i bathe a child in a spica cast?
A Spica cast generally needs to be kept dry, so your child will not be able to have a normal bath while wearing it. Instead, their hospital team will usually show you how to wash them using a damp flannel, sponge or cloth while taking care not to get the cast wet. Particular care is needed around the nappy or toileting area to help keep your child’s skin clean and dry. Your child’s clinical team should show you the most appropriate method for their cast.
How should my child sleep?
There is not one sleeping position that is right for every child wearing a Spica cast. The position your child needs will depend on their surgery, cast, and individual clinical advice. Your hospital or therapy team should show you how to position your child safely and comfortably. Pillows or other supports may be used to help support the cast and reduce pressure on areas such as the heels and around the edges of the cast. Your child may also need to have their position changed regularly.
Can my child walk in a spica cast?
A child wearing a Spica cast will not be able to stand or walk while the cast is in place. A Spica cast is designed to hold the hips and legs in a specific position to allow healing or following surgery or treatment. Getting around the home and going out can present practical challenges. A suitable seating system will provide a safe and comfortable way for your child to move around while wearing their cast.
Can i change my child’s nappy in a spica cast?
Yes. Children wearing a Spica cast can still use nappies, although changing them requires some extra care. Your hospital team should show you how to protect the cast and keep your child’s skin clean and dry. Some hospitals teach parents a ‘double nappy’ technique, using a smaller nappy inside the cast and a larger nappy over the outside. Nappies may need to be checked and changed regularly to reduce the risk of leaks and cast becoming wet or soiled.
How do you transport a child in a spica cast?
Transporting a child in a Spica cast can be challenging because the cast can significantly change their sitting position and the amount of space they need. The right transport solution will depend on your child’s size, cast, mobility and the advice provided by their clinical and therapy team.
For journeys outside the home, a suitable specialist wheelchair or Spica chair can provide a supportive way for a child to travel while they are unable to use their usual seating. Chuncs Spica chair is designed to accommodate the additional space needed by a child wearing a Spica cast, while providing supportive seating for everyday mobility during recovery.
For car travel, a wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) may be considered. This can allow a child to travel while remaining in their wheelchair. Your child’s clinical or therapy team can advise you on suitable transport and seating options for their individual needs.
How can i keep my child comfortable in a spica cast?
It can take some time for a child and their family to adjust to life in a Spica cast. Your clinical team can show you how to position your child comfortably and how to use pillows or other supports where appropriate. Changing your child’s position regularly can help reduce pressure on vulnerable areas such as the heels and skin around the edges of the cast.
Check the cast and visible skin regularly and follow the positioning advice provided by your child’s clinical team. If your child seems to be in pain or unusually distressed, contact their clinical team rather than trying to adjust the cast yourself.
What happens after a spica cast is removed?
It can take some time for a child to get used to moving again after their Spica cast is removed. The skin underneath the cast may be dry, flaky or sensitive, and the leg or thigh may look smaller than the other side after a period of reduced movement. Your child may also have some stiffness, weakness, or changes in the way they move when they first come out of the cast. This is often part of the recovery process, but every child is different.
Their clinical team will advise you about what to expect and whether your child needs any specific exercises or rehabilitation. Your child’s clinical team will also advise you on when they can return to normal activities, including standing, walking and weight bearing. It is important to follow their guidance rather than encouraging your child to do more than they are ready for.
Once your child is able to move around again, they may still need additional support while they regain their strength and confidence. Depending on their individual needs, specialist seating or mobility equipment may continue to be useful during this transition.
When should i contact the hospital?
Your hospital team should give you specific instructions about when to contact them. In general, you should seek advice if you are concerned that the cast is too tight, loose, cracked or damaged, is rubbing against your child’s skin, or has become wet.
If you are worried about your child or their Spica cast, contact the clinical team responsible for their care rather than trying to diagnose or treat the problem yourself.