How To Apply a Short Leg Cast By James Y McCue, MD, University of California San Francisco - Fresno Reviewed / Revised Jun 2021 | Modified Sep 2022 View Patient Education Indications Contraindications Complications Equipment Positioning Step-by-Step Description of Procedure Aftercare Warnings and Common Errors Tips and Tricks Topic Resources How To Apply a Short Leg Cast A short leg cast extends from the metatarsal joints to the fibular head and is intended to immobilize the foot and ankle.