Medical boots (walker boots) provide support, stability and protection to injured feet after injury or surgery. By immobilizing both feet at once to reduce movement and redistribute weight to alleviate pressure points and speed healing time. But it’s important to remember that medical boots should only be worn as directed by your physician or physical therapist; removal will need to occur regularly when showering, bathing, sleeping or engaging in activities which expose full pressure such as walking (e.g. showering and bathing). It is wise to have a plan set in place so it remains safe during these activities (e.g. showering/bath/sleeping). When worn during these activities it’s essential to have an action plan ready in case something unexpected happens – otherwise accidents happen quickly!
Medical boots should always be kept clean and dry when not being worn to prevent moisture build-up that could lead to skin irritation and infections. A small bag or pouch with towel can help store a medical boot when not in use; for showering use a waterproof cover. A pillow may also be placed beneath an injured foot/ankle to elevate circulation while using a shoe balancer can make walking in medical walking boots much simpler and avoid stressing injured areas of your leg or foot/ankle.
Selecting the appropriate medical boot for your injury is key; an incorrect fit can exacerbate problems and cause additional discomfort. Be sure to measure both feet/ankles before selecting your size from the manufacturer’s sizing chart tab of each product. Furthermore, an adjustable medical walker boot offers maximum flexibility by accommodating different injuries or levels of healing.
Individuals with wide calves require medical boots with bendable uprights that can bend outward, accommodating their wide lower legs. There are few medical walking boots on the market which offer this feature; however, DonJoy MaxTrax Walker Brace is one of those that features malleable uprights which can be bent outward for larger lower legs.
Parents and teachers should make children aware of the safety and limitations associated with wearing medical boots, so if a child experiences discomfort while wearing their medical walker boot it would be advisable to consult with either their pediatrician or physical therapist in order to receive personalized recommendations.