...with the internal rods reinforcing the bone a cast isn't needed. This brace stabilizes the leg and can be removed for bathes in a week or so. A cast would have gone from his ankle to his pelvis and would have been extremely uncomfortable. We had just returned from his orthopedist when I took this. His best friend, Garrett, was playing kickball with him yesterday afternoon when it happened and went to the emergency room with him and stayed overnight too. Garrett, is a faithful friend and a blessing to our whole family.