If you’ve experienced a sprain, fracture, or other injury to your foot or ankle, chances are your doctor has prescribed a walking boot.
Walking boots are important medical devices. They support and immobilize your foot and ankle, helping you heal. They limit movement and provide stability.
However, wearing a walking boot isn’t always a walk in the park. There can be downsides. These may include physical discomfort, changes in your gait, muscle weakness, and skin irritation.
Being aware of the potential side effects of wearing a walking boot and proactively managing them is key to a smoother recovery and preventing further complications. If you are experiencing side effects of wearing a walking boot, be sure to talk with your doctor about them.
Physical pain and discomfort associated with walking boots
Wearing a walking boot can sometimes feel like a cure that’s worse than the disease. While it’s protecting your injured foot or ankle, it can cause pain in other parts of your body.
Where does it hurt most?
It’s not unusual to develop new pain in areas other than the original injury site. In fact, studies show that 67% of patients experience secondary pain because of wearing a walking boot.
The most common places people report new pain are in the lower back, the hip opposite the boot, and the knee on the side where they’re wearing the boot.
And the pain can come on quickly. Most people (84%) develop these new pain points within the first two weeks of wearing the boot.
Managing pain and discomfort
Here are a few things you can do to relieve the pain and discomfort of wearing a walking boot:
- Elevate and ice: To combat swelling, prop your leg up so it’s higher than your heart. You can also apply ice packs for 10 to 20 minutes every one to two hours for the first three days.
- Adjust the boot: When you’re resting, loosen the straps on your boot. Also, try to match the height of the boot with a shoe that’s been raised on your “good” foot.
- Pain medication: Ask your doctor or pharmacist about over-the-counter pain relievers that might help.
Can a walking boot cause blood clots?
One of the biggest risks of wearing a walking boot is developing deep vein thrombosis, or DVT. DVT refers to blood clots that form in the deep veins of your body, usually in the legs. Because a walking boot limits your movement, it can slow blood flow and increase your risk of DVT.
Symptoms of DVT include:
- Swelling in the affected leg
- Pain or tenderness
- Redness
- Warmth
To protect yourself from DVT, you should try to move your leg every couple of hours. Make sure your boot fits properly. If you suspect you have DVT, seek medical attention right away.
Gait and posture changes while wearing a walking boot
Wearing a walking boot can throw off your normal walking style, leading to a limp and other issues.
Impact on walking pattern
The shape and height of a walking boot can change your natural stride. You may find yourself limping as you walk. If the limping persists, talk with your doctor about using a cane or crutches to help you get around.
It also helps to shorten your steps. Taking smaller steps can help minimize the strain on your body while you’re wearing the boot.
Impact on posture and joints
The way you walk affects your posture, and that can put extra stress on your joints. As you move, pay attention to your alignment. Your second toe should point in the same direction as your knee.
Wearing a walking boot can put strain on your lower back, the hip on the opposite side of the boot, and the knee on the same side as the boot.
Muscle weakness and atrophy during walking boot use
Wearing a walking boot immobilizes your foot and ankle, and that can lead to some pretty rapid muscle loss, especially in your calf and thigh muscles.
Muscle Changes
Research has shown that your calf muscles can shrink by nearly 22% and your thigh muscles by about 24% within just a few weeks of boot wear. And the muscle changes can start alarmingly fast—often during the first week you’re wearing the boot.
On the bright side, your hamstring muscles don’t lose as much volume (only about 6.5%), and they tend to recover faster once you’re out of the boot.
Maintaining Muscle Activity
Even though you can’t put weight on your injured foot, there are things you can do to minimize muscle loss. Gentle, non-weight-bearing exercises, core strength work, and alternative activities, such as pool exercises, can help keep your muscles engaged.
It’s also important to maintain mobility in your other joints to avoid stiffness and discomfort.
Keep in mind that it can take a while to regain your strength. Even two months after you’re out of the boot, your muscles may still show significant weakness.
Skin and tissue problems associated with walking boots
Walking boots can sometimes cause skin irritation and sores, especially if they don’t fit quite right.
Irritation and sores
Because walking boots are rigid and fit snugly, they can sometimes cause pressure sores and hot spots, especially if you’re on your feet a lot. It’s a good idea to check your skin every day for redness, warmth, or burning sensations.
Managing skin health
To keep your skin in good shape while you’re wearing a walking boot, follow these tips:
- Make sure the boot fits properly. A boot that’s too tight or too loose can rub and cause blisters or sores. Also, wear long socks that come up over the top of the boot to prevent chafing.
- Protect your skin. If you notice any irritated areas, try using moleskin or Spenco’s Second Skin to protect the skin.
- Avoid irritants. Don’t use oils or lotions near the boot, as they can trap moisture and make irritation worse.
Sleep and comfort issues while wearing a walking boot
One of the most common complaints among people who’ve been prescribed a walking boot is that it’s hard to get comfortable enough to sleep well.
Nighttime troubles
Let’s face it: A walking boot can disrupt your sleep.
Improving sleep comfort
Here are a few things you can try to make it easier to sleep while wearing a walking boot:
- Sleeping positions. Back sleepers can prop themselves up with pillows. Side sleepers may find relief with a body pillow. Some people find that sleeping in a half-sitting position is the most comfortable.
- Boot adjustment. You may want to keep your boot on at night at first, but loosen the straps slightly.
- Bedding protection. Cover your boot with a soft cloth or pillowcase to protect your bedding.
- Ventilation. Make sure your bedroom is well-ventilated to keep you from getting too hot.
How walking boots can impact your mental health
Wearing a walking boot can be frustrating. The limited mobility can have a real impact on your mental health. Recovery can be challenging, especially if you’re used to being active.
It’s common to feel down when you can’t do the things you enjoy. Balancing your physical limitations with your emotional well-being is key. Try to find new ways to stay engaged and connected.
If you’re struggling with low mood, anxiety, or other mental health concerns, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Talking to a therapist or counselor can provide valuable support and coping strategies. There’s no shame in asking for help, and it can make a big difference in your recovery journey.
In Conclusion
Wearing a walking boot is often a necessary step in recovery, but it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects. These can range from pain and changes in the way you walk to muscle weakness, skin irritation, and even challenges to your mental health. No one wants to feel down while they’re trying to get back on their feet!
Taking a proactive approach is key to minimizing these side effects and making your recovery as smooth as possible. This means paying close attention to proper boot care, incorporating prescribed exercises into your routine, and staying in close communication with your healthcare team.
Remember, everyone’s experience is unique. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor or physical therapist for personalized advice and treatment. They can help you navigate any challenges and ensure you’re on the right path to a full recovery.