Back in the day, I used to love running every day as it rejuvenated me and got me ready to face the day.
One day, I decided to try out a new running track and as you know, running can be dangerous when done on an uneven path. Now I’m no medical expert, but I think I had a severe cramp in my calf due to dehydration, and because of that, I tripped.
The sharp pain in my calf caught me off guard, so I ended up falling and spraining my ankle. I remember my husband rushing to me (thankfully, the park was not too far from the house) and taking me to the hospital. The doctor asked me to keep a walking boot on since the sprain was quite intense.
My first thought? “That’s extreme.” My second thought was, how am I going to manage with this huge accessory on my leg!
Hi! My name is Stacy, and if you’re in a similar situation, I have a few tips for wearing a walking boot. Now, without further ado, let’s get to it!
How To Wear A Walking Boot
The Need For A Walking Boot
While there are multiple types of injuries due to which a walking boot may be required, most of the time it is for minor ones. Since a walking boot is one step below a cast, it can be used to protect the foot from further damage if a sprain or muscle tear has occurred.
Sometimes podiatrists may ask their patients to wear a walking boot after any leg surgery. Since ample rest is needed for the leg, the walking boot can encase it safely and still allow you to move around. The only thing to remember is that getting used to it may take some time, so be patient with it.
Steps To Put On A Walking Boot
Putting on a walking boot can be a little difficult if you have never done it before, but these steps should make it easier:
Step 1:
The first thing you need to do is put on a comfortable sock so the walking boot does not poke you in any way.
Step 2:
The next step is putting on the liner carefully, so it wraps both the leg and foot securely. A liner (inner fabric with fasteners) provides a little compression to the leg that helps speed the recovery.
Pro Tip: make sure the heel touches the back of the liner properly for a snug fit.
Step 3:
Once the liner is on, secure the front plate over the liner fabric. To make this step easier, always fasten from the bottom up, as reaching over a secure walking boot might be difficult.
Now, with the walking boot in place, all you need to do is stand on it and check if it is comfortable. If you have a boot with air chambers, you may have to pump them up (according to doctor’s orders).
- BEFORE PURCHASING please view our newest sizing chart (see below). Size Medium fits Men’s 8-11 and Women’s 9-12 shoe size. Size Medium weighs 2.2 pounds and can be worn on the left or right foot.
- USER GUIDE included in each boot for proper application. Please follow the steps provided for ideal fit and comfort
- PROMOTES NATURAL WALKING with rocker sole and shock-absorbing insole promote more natural walking during use
- CHECK SIZE BEFORE ORDERING — SEE SIZE CHART For the best fit, please measure foot length and compare with our chart before purchasing. If you’re between sizes, choose the larger size for comfort.
- LIGHTWEIGHT FOR ITS CATEGORY Size Extra Small boot weighs 1.8 lbs total. CAM walkers are meant to be supportive, so a slight “lift” feeling compared to a normal shoe is expected.
- LEFT OR RIGHT FOOT USE Universal design fits either foot. Straps are fully adjustable for swelling, bandages, or dressing changes.
Tips For Wearing A Walking Boot
While wearing a walking boot may seem like a doable task, it is managing yourself with it that’s the tricky bit. But, that is precisely why I am here. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when using a walking boot:
1. Be Mindful Of Circulation
One of the things to be careful about is blood circulation in the legs. Since some of these walking boots have tons of fasteners, it could get overwhelming on the veins.
While fastening the liner or the front plate, keep a check on the circulation in the leg and adjust it as many times as you’re comfortable.
2. Balance Is Key
Given its size, it’s evident that wearing a walking boot might feel like you’re wearing heels but on just one leg. Since limping your way through the day is not an option as it can cause hip issues, the surface needs balance.
This is why we have shoe levelers. These act as heels under the whole shoe so that the other leg is at the same level.
3. Travel With Caution
A walking boot is not the end of the earth, and so after ample rest, it can be possible to travel with it on. The first thing you will have to do is consult a medical professional before the trip. Speak to them about the activities you can participate in and how much rest is required.
Once you get his green signal, it is time to pack your bags and head off for that much-awaited vacation.
Tips For Airplane Travel
Flying with a walking boot on should not be a big deal, however consultation with the doctor is necessary. If they permit, then make sure you have everything that’s needed to cater for the injury.
Pro Tip: If you have a walking boot, always book a seat with extra legroom.
Another thing that will help is informing the airlines about the walking boot and asking for medical assistance (if needed). In some cases, even a wheelchair can be arranged.
Walking Boot Maintenance
Wearing such a heavily padded boot for long hours means sweat that may cause foul odor from the liner. This is why after-care for the walking boot is so important. To eliminate (and further avoid) any odor or bacteria build-up, it is best to wash it with perfumeless soap and water from time to time.
Final Words
And there you have it; a guide with tips on wearing walking boots. I hope these tips are informative and help you the same way they helped me.
Before I leave, I have to put some stress on ample rest. It is crucial to relax as much as possible to ensure a speedy recovery. The idea of the walking boot is not to walk around like normal with it but to protect the foot from further harm. Exertion will make it worse, so now is the time to get in bed and binge-watch everything.
On that note, I shall now sign off. But don’t worry, I will see you soon with many more guides.
Until next time!