Curious to see if your child could benefit from Serial Casting?

About Serial Casting

What is serial casting?
Serial casting is a gentle, non-invasive approach we use to help children with muscle tightness and limited range of motion. Our goal is to make everyday activities easier. We apply a soft or hard cast with padding to hold a part of the body in a stretched position, which gradually helps the muscles relax and lengthen.

Who would benefit from serial casting?
Serial casting can make a big difference for:
  • Children with Muscle Tightness: Conditions like cerebral palsy, spasticity, toe walking, or contractures can cause muscles to tighten up. Serial casting can help ease this tightness.
  • Limited Movement: If your child has trouble moving their joints, serial casting can help them gain more flexibility.
  • Post-Surgery Recovery: For those healing from surgery, serial casting can maintain or improve joint flexibility.
  • Neuromuscular Disorders: Children with neuromuscular disorders often benefit from this gentle treatment.

When is Serial Casting Needed?
We might suggest serial casting if your child struggles with walking efficiency, exhibits foot malalignment, or has functional challenges.  
  • Physical Therapy Isn’t Enough: Sometimes, extra help is needed to reduce muscle tightness or improve range of motion.
  • Daily Life is Affected: When tight muscles make daily activities challenging or painful.
  • Joint Alignment Corrections: Ensure joints are in the right position, making it easier to use orthotic devices.
  • Preparing for Orthotics: Getting ready for devices that support joint alignment.
  • Prevention of Deformities: It’s important to keep the muscles flexible to avoid long-term problems.
What does the process look like?
Sequential casts are done for 3-10 weeks to progressively stretch the joint and enhance range of motion. Each week, a new cast is applied, further stretching the muscle and improving flexibility. Your child will be able to participate in all day-to-day activities! The biggest challenge is keeping the cast dry. We recommend sponge baths during the time he/she is in the casts.

Step 1: Initial Evaluation
​Our pediatric physical therapists start with a thorough evaluation to understand your child's needs and how best to help them if they are not already in physical therapy at Hummingbird.

Step 2: Casting Sessions 
Our therapists carefully apply the soft cast with proper padding to avoid any skin irritation. We make sure it’s comfortable and correctly positioned.

Step 3: Weekly Monitoring and Adjustments
Every week, we remove the old cast and apply a new one to keep gradually stretching the muscle and ensuring progress.

Step 4: Post-Casting Support
After the casting process, we determine the next steps for your child and may transition to other therapy modalities or exercises to maintain flexibility.

Serial casting is a safe and effective way to support your child’s flexibility, movement, and overall well-being. 
Ready to get started?
To learn more about Serial Casting, including session lengths and what the casting process looks like, or to speak with our team, contact us. We’re here to help your child move more freely and comfortably!