Short Leg Fracture Casts
- Materials Section
What our casts are made of
Orth2Go casts are made from rigorously tested, medically appropriate materials — chosen for their strength, flexibility, safety, and environmental care.
What our casts are made of
PLA — Polylactic Acid
Our most widely used material. PLA is eco-friendly, biodegradable (lasting 5+ years), and strong enough for the demands of daily wear. It’s the gold standard for 3D-printed fracture casts.
TPU — Thermoplastic Polyurethane
Used when a cast needs to flex with the body. TPU offers excellent durability and comfort for areas that require some degree of movement.
Disclaimer: As with any material worn against skin, 3D-printed materials may still cause irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. Please consult your doctor if you experience any discomfort.
- B1 Product Guide
SHORT LEG
Also called a below-knee cast, the Short Leg Cast treats injuries affecting the lower leg, ankle, or foot — without immobilizing the knee. It provides stable, breathable support for fractures and sprains in these areas while keeping you as mobile as possible. Fitted via a 3D scan, it’s lighter and more comfortable than traditional alternatives for what is often a multi-week recovery.
Conditions it treats:
- Distal tibia fractures (lower shin bone)
- Distal fibula fractures (commonly part of an ankle fracture)
- Lateral or medial malleolus fractures (ankle bones)
• Bimalleolar or trimalleolar ankle fractures (if stable and non-surgical) - Metatarsal fractures (bones in the midfoot)
- Calcaneus fractures (heel bone — non-displaced and stable only)
- Talus fractures (ankle bone — minor, non-displaced)
- Care Tips Section
Daily support and comfort
Weight bearing:
Follow your doctor’s instructions on weight bearing exactly. Some patients may be cleared for partial weight bearing with crutches; others may need to keep weight fully off the leg. Never assume it’s safe to walk on your cast without clearance.
Elevation is key:
Keep your foot and leg elevated above heart level as much as possible — especially in the first week. This significantly reduces swelling and speeds up healing. Prop it up on pillows when sitting or lying down.
Toe movement:
Your toes are free — wiggle them regularly throughout the day to maintain circulation and reduce swelling.
Moving around safely:
Use crutches, a walker, or a knee scooter as advised by your doctor. Clear pathways at home, remove rugs, and use grab bars in the bathroom if available.
- Care Guide Section
Caring for your Orth2Go cast
Your cast is built to last — and with a little care, it’ll stay comfortable and effective right through your recovery.
What our casts are made of
Orth2Go casts are made from rigorously tested, medically appropriate materials — chosen for their strength, flexibility, safety, and environmental care.
Keeping it clean
Wipe the outside of your cast with a damp cloth as needed. Avoid submerging it in water for extended periods, even though it is water-resistant. If moisture gets inside, allow it to air dry completely before wearing.
Wearing it properly
Always wear your cast exactly as instructed by your doctor. Do not attempt to adjust, tighten, or loosen the locks yourself — contact your doctor or Orth2Go if the fit feels off at any point.
Skin care
Do not insert objects inside the cast to scratch your skin. If you experience itching, redness, unusual swelling, or any skin irritation, contact your doctor promptly.
Protection
While your cast is durable and shock-resistant, avoid dropping it or exposing it to extreme heat, which may affect the structure of the material.
Follow-up visits
Attend all follow-up appointments with your doctor. They will monitor your healing and let you know when the cast can safely come off.
When to call your doctor immediately:
- Increased pain, swelling, or numbness inside the cast
- Skin sores, blistering, or an unusual odor
- The cast feels cracked, loose, or structurally compromised
- Your fingers or toes become discolored or cold
Not sure which cast is right for you?
Talk to your orthopedic doctor, or reach out to us directly — we’ll help you find the right fit for your recovery.