A cast is better when you need total immobilization and often when there has been a bone break or fracture.
Boots are better when you don't require total immobilization and want or need some movement with controlled movement to allow the tissues to heal.
Compartment syndrome is one of the primary concerns with rigid casts and occurs when a cast is put on before swelling subsides.
It can cause pressure to build up and damage the muscles, nerves or blood vessels in the affected area.
Casts can cause pressure sores and skin irritations.
You will usually stop wearing a walking boot after 1 week to 6 weeks depending on how serious your injury is.
Most people only wear a walking boot for up to 6 weeks and rarely would they need to wear the walking boot longer than 6 weeks.
The walking boot also known as an orthopedic boot is removable and can most often be adjusted as well.
Your doctor should show you how to remove, put on and adjust the walking boot.
You can remove the walking boot when not walking or when resting, sleeping etc.
You should wear your walking boot when standing and walking as the walking boot will protect your ankle and make you more comfortable.
use crutches to take some weight off your foot as well.
After you are full weight bearing in the walking boot/protective shoe a critical portion of their recovery is transitioning back to the use of regular shoes.
Doctors will generally recommend doing this over a gradual period in order to prevent further or new injury.
The first phase is the non-weight bearing while using a walking boot, the second is weight bearing while continuing to use the walking boot and finally, full weight bearing once the walking boot is no longer needed.
The first phase may not be needed, depending on the type and severity of the injury or surgery.
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It is important to wear the sock you were given at the orthopedic clinic or to wear a long thin sock in your walking boot to avoid a tourniquet effect and other skin injuries.
Be sure not to tuck any other clothing (e.g., pants) inside the walking boot as this could injure your skin.