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
| Author | Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Ross E. Petty, MD, PhD, FRCPC - Pediatric Rheumatology |
| Last Updated | June 30, 2006 |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated, P.O. Box 1989, Boise, ID 83701. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. For more information, click here. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed.
