If you’re currently wearing a walking boot, being informed about potential side effects—and how to avoid them—can make a world of difference in your recovery process. Read on to explore 10 common side effects of wearing a walking boot and learn strategies to keep your foot and ankle healthy.
What is a Walking Boot?
A walking boot, or orthopedic boot, is a medical device designed to immobilize and protect injured feet and ankles. Physicians commonly prescribe it for conditions such as fractures, tendon injuries, severe sprains, or following foot or ankle surgery. Unlike a traditional cast, walking boots offer adjustable support, allowing patients to remove them when necessary.
While walking boots support healing, they can occasionally lead to complications, especially when worn for extended periods or incorrectly. Let’s break down the most common effects and how to tackle them.
10 Side Effects of Wearing a Walking Boot
1. Muscle Weakness
Extended use of a walking boot can reduce the demand on your leg and foot muscles, leading to muscle atrophy—or weakening of muscles. This happens because the muscles are no longer actively engaged while the boot does most of the stabilizing.
Prevention Tip
Once your doctor allows it, incorporate light exercises to keep your leg muscles active, such as toe stretches or gentle ankle rotations. Physical therapy can also help restore strength post-recovery.
2. Skin Irritation
Skin irritation is a common complaint when wearing a walking boot for long hours. Friction from the boot’s materials or sweating inside the boot can cause rashes, blisters, or redness.
Prevention Tip
Make sure to wear a clean, moisture-wicking sock under the boot to reduce friction and sweating. Inspect your skin regularly and use padding or bandages on irritated areas.
3. Altered Gait
Walking boots, due to their height and stiffness, can cause you to walk unevenly, putting unnatural stress on your hips, knees, and spine. Over time, this altered gait can lead to aches and strain in areas beyond your foot or ankle.
Prevention Tip
Consider using an even-up device or shoe balancer on your other foot. This levels your posture and minimizes the strain caused by the height difference.
4. Hip and Knee Discomfort
The imbalanced height created by a walking boot often results in compensation by other muscles, leading to discomfort in the hips and knees. This is especially notable if the boot is worn incorrectly or unevenly.
Prevention Tip
Pay attention to proper fitting when wearing the boot. Regular alignment checks by your doctor or physical therapist can help address these issues.
5. Swelling (Edema)
Foot swelling, or edema, might persist even while wearing a walking boot. Limited movement and restricted blood circulation often contribute to this issue.
Prevention Tip
Elevate your injured leg when resting to reduce swelling, and use compression socks if recommended by your healthcare provider.
6. Pain in the Opposite Leg
Your uninjured leg might bear more weight as you compensate for the restricted side. This can result in overuse injuries or pain.
Prevention Tip
Follow proper weight-bearing instructions from your doctor. If needed, use crutches or a cane to distribute weight evenly while walking.
7. Stiffness in the Foot or Ankle
Since walking boots limit movement, you may experience stiffness in your foot or ankle over time. This can affect your range of motion and mobility after the boot is removed.
Prevention Tip
Engage in mobility exercises during recovery, as advised by your doctor. Gentle stretching and range-of-motion exercises can prevent stiffness.
8. Back Pain
Walking boots can alter your posture, potentially causing lower back pain. The imbalance often results from the height difference between the boot and your other shoe.
Prevention Tip
Add a height-balancing insole to the shoe on your uninjured leg. Focus on maintaining good posture throughout the day.
9. Chafing or Bruising from Improper Fit
If your walking boot is too loose or too tight, it may lead to chafing, pressure points, or even bruising.
Prevention Tip
Have your boot professionally adjusted by a healthcare provider. Regularly check for proper fit and ensure the straps are neither too tight nor too loose.
10. Delayed Healing
Prolonged use of a walking boot without transitioning out of it at the right time—or using it incorrectly—could hinder your recovery progress.
Prevention Tip
Stick to the exact wear-time schedule provided by your doctor. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to decide when it’s time to stop using the boot.
How to Wear a Walking Boot Correctly
Minimizing side effects starts with wearing your walking boot the right way. Here are some practical tips to ensure you get the most benefit with minimal discomfort:
- Get the Right Fit: Make sure your walking boot is properly sized for your foot and ankle. If you’re unsure, seek guidance from your orthopedist or technician.
- Follow Weight-Bearing Guidelines: Depending on your injury, your doctor will provide specific instructions about how much weight you can put on your injured foot. Don’t exceed these limits.
- Use Accessories If Needed: If your walking boot creates a height imbalance, an even-up device on the opposite foot or crutches can help alleviate strain.
- Keep It Clean: Regularly clean and inspect the interior of the walking boot to prevent irritation or infection caused by sweat and debris.
Final Steps Toward Recovery
Wearing a walking boot brings immense relief and plays a vital role in the healing of foot and ankle injuries. However, knowing the potential side effects is equally important. By understanding how to prevent these issues, you can ensure that your recovery is as smooth and pain-free as possible.
If at any point you feel unusual pain, discomfort, or notice new symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider. The right guidance, paired with a proactive mindset, can help you regain your mobility safely and effectively.