How to Apply an Ankle Air Cast

An ankle air cast is a malleable yet supportive ankle brace that wraps around the ankle to give it support against a sprain or break. An air cast can also be used as support against permanent or chronic ankle instability. The air cast is made up of a stirrup that stretches around the bottom of the foot for extra heel support. Then a flexible fabric bandage stretches around the leg and can be rewrapped for tightness. One important distinction between an air cast and a permanent cast is that the air cast is completely removable and can be taken off before showering or bathing.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Wash your leg, foot and ankle before applying the air cast. This will prevent you from sweating through the air cast or developing an odor.

2. Lift the stirrups under the arch of your foot, between the heel and the ball of the underside of your foot.

3. Press the two stirrups on either side of your lower leg comfortably. Loosen if you feel any pain on your ankle.

4. Wrap the fabric bandage around the stirrups, wrapping tightly enough to provide support but not so tightly as to be painful.

5. Fasten with the metal or plastic fastener that comes with the air cast. Remove the air cast before bathing or showering.

Tips & Warnings

• Air casts can be purchased at medical supply stores, drugstores and grocery stores.
• See a doctor for x-rays before using an air cast. If you have a broken bone, only use the air cast under your doctor's supervision.

Resources

• AirCast.com: Official Air Cast Website
• JointheHealing.com: Ankle Sprain Care
• Wellsphere.com: Ankle Air Cast

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