Suffering from a foot or ankle injury can be a frustrating and challenging experience. When it comes to the recovery process, one common solution prescribed by medical professionals is the walking boot. While wearing a walking boot can potentially aid in the healing process, it also presents challenges to the wearer. Additional pain in the knees, hips, and back plague the wearer after continued use. The uneven balance of the legs disrupts the body’s natural movement and becomes the source of additional pain and discomfort, that may require further medical treatment. The process is long and tiresome and many seek survival from wearing a walking boot. However, there are ways to survive the walking boot for the healing process:
- Maintain a positive attitude. Adapting to life in a walking boot can be challenging, but maintaining a positive attitude is key. Focus on the fact that this temporary inconvenience is contributing to your overall healing. Surround yourself with supportive friends and family who can provide encouragement and help keep your spirits up during this period. This article by Curovate outlines the correlation between keeping a positive attitude and injury recovery.
- Shorten your stride. The average person’s step is between 2.1-2.5 feet. This stride length is not attainable with the walking boot due to its weight and rounded bottom. Taking smaller steps can decrease the stress that is placed on your opposing leg and hips.
- Keep your feet and knees straight. Limping is a common occurrence due to the unevenness of the legs while wearing a walking boot. This can cause twisting in the knees or feet. Ensuring that your feet and knees are straight can take the strain off of your hips as you walk.
- Utilize mobility aids. To minimize the strain on your body and enhance mobility, consider using aids such as crutches, walkers, or knee scooters. These devices can provide relief when moving around, especially in situations where extended walking or weight-bearing is necessary. Mobility Deck is a great resource for knowing which mobility aids you can use.
- Keep the boot clean and dry. Maintaining hygiene is crucial when wearing a walking boot. Regularly clean the boot following the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent the buildup of dirt, sweat, or bacteria. Additionally, take precautions to keep the boot dry, as excessive moisture can lead to skin irritation or unpleasant odors. Consider using moisture-wicking socks or foot powders to help with this.
- Physical therapy and exercises. Engage in any recommended physical therapy exercises or stretches to promote healing, increase flexibility, and prevent muscle stiffness. Always remember to consult your doctor first. They can find exercises that are tailored to your injury and can significantly expedite your recovery.
- Seek support. Don’t hesitate to lean on your support system during this time. Seek assistance from family, friends, or support groups who can offer encouragement, help with daily tasks, or simply provide a listening ear. Their support will uplift your spirits and make the journey more manageable.
- Return to activities up to 4x faster with the TayCo Brace. The TayCo Brace fixes the problems that come with wearing a walking boot. It is the only external ankle brace that provides the same amount of support as a walking boot and eliminates any pain that it caused. With the TayCo Brace, you can recover up to 4x faster than you would have with a walking boot without those challenges.
Recovering from an injury can be emotionally and physically draining. Wearing the walking boot presents all kinds of challenges. Finding solutions to those challenges is simpler than you think. The TayCo Brace is the most simple solution to all of the pain and clunkiness from the walking boot. An esteemed orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Schweitzer, commented on the TayCo Brace, “I've never had a patient come up to me and thank me for putting them in a cam boot - but I'll be honest, the first patient I put into a TayCo… was ready to start moving out of the boot but wanted additional support. The brace was an obvious thing. The difference between the boot and the brace for that patient was immediate. It was a lot easier to put on, they could wear their own sneaker, and they could be level, honestly, they came up and hugged me. Wow, this is truly something different.”
