Should I Get A Cast Or Aircast Boot For A Foot Or Ankle Fracture
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 14 ต.ค. 2018
- In this episode, the orthopedic surgeons discuss whether to get a cast or a boot for a variety of foot and ankle injuries. Fractures and sprains are discussed.
Please see the complete user agreement at talkingwithdocs.com
Medical emergency
Do NOT use the Video for medical emergencies. If you have a medical emergency, call a physician or qualified healthcare provider, or CALL 911 immediately. Under no circumstances should you attempt self-treatment based on anything you have seen or read on the Video.
General information is not medical advice
The general information provided on the Video is for informational purposes only and is not professional medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or care, nor is it intended to be a substitute therefore. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider properly licensed to practise medicine or general healthcare in your jurisdiction concerning any questions you may have regarding any information obtained from this Video and any medical condition you believe may be relevant to you or to someone else. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this Video. Always consult with your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before embarking on a new treatment, diet, or fitness program. Information obtained on the Video is not exhaustive and does not cover all diseases, ailments, physical conditions, or their treatment.
![Aircast Walking Boot: BEST TIPS [Broken Foot or Broken Ankle]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Q5zhjs0S-KU/mqdefault.jpg)
![Aircast Walking Boot: BEST TIPS [Broken Foot or Broken Ankle]](/img/tr.png)
![[안방1열 직캠4K] 베이비몬스터 치키타 'FOREVER' (BABYMONSTER CHIQUITA FanCam) @SBS Inkigayo 2404707](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Tn3bGHiBWkg/mqdefault.jpg)
Thanks Docs. I'm in the 🇬🇧UK. I broke my ankle walking our doggy 🐶🐕. I have a boot and crutches. I didn't know about the blood clots so really appreciate the advice thank you. I also did not know I would have to wear the boot at night. Good advice thank you for making this video. 😊♥️
Just been through this entire scenario with a fracture of my left fibula and an avulsion fracture involving the talus on my right ankle. I got the boot for my left in emerg. ( at St. Mike's) 10 days later they put on a fibreglass cast. I had that on for two weeks and then back to the Aircast boot for three weeks , all non weight bearing using crutches. Third visit to the Fracture Clinic today and left fibula is now completely healed ( right on schedule) and needs strengthening. Ligament tear on the right is being treated as a bad sprain. Doctors have prescribed physio but expect that I will make a complete recovery. I certainly have learned a lot about our health care system and how bones regenerate from this unexpected event ! Thanks so much for taking the time to make these videos- I have forwarded some on to a neighbour who just had hip replacement surgery ( she is a former ICU nurse) and she said that she wished her doctors were like you two. Even though this is her second hip replacement, she learned something that she didn't know from your videos!
Hi Chryseas S. So glad to hear that you are well on the way to recovery. And thank you so much for all of the positive feedback. We do our best. A little information for patients definitely goes a long way. Be well and good luck with the rest of your treatment. And thanks for watching!
Although this video is 2 yrs old it definitely is still very helpful. I just broke my ankle hiking and thought it was just a bad sprain. Finally went to emergency and extras confirmed my fracture. Didn’t help that I walked almost 3 hours back down the mountain on my injured ankle. I’m in a boot now with crutches but I have an appointment with a Orthopedic surgeon in the morning to see where I go from here.
Best of luck Jenn! Thanks for watching and subscribing
How did u get on jenn. Exact same circumstances here
How’s it going
I too fractured my ankle on a hike, and my first initial x ray they didnt do correctly so they couldnt see the break, so i was walking on a broken ankle for a whole week until my next x ray that confirmed it was a break not a sprain like they told me. They had me walking on a broken ankle and i was assuming that sprains hurt this bad. Nope they dont. Lol breaks do though. 😂
I'm in a boot with 2 fractures only diagnosed 3 weeks after first xray which they couldn't see the fractures - tho A. I flagged up 'Doubt' - they diagnosed a sprain! I walked on it for 3 weeks. I'm now not weight bearing and 1 week in - in a panic this won't heal!! I'm also alone - - cries!!
I just wrote a longish reply/question in another comment. You guys messaged back. Now that I look you guys messaged back Everyone! That is so amazing,you guys rock !!!!!!!!!!! Best doctors ever !
Yes we have answered every comment for the last 4 years. Before that we didn’t even know people could leave comments or how to answer them!
You guys are awesome ! Anyways my bone didn’t heal , I don’t know why now I’m in a boot . The doctor said we could do surgery eventually , if I feel like I need it but since I have no pain and I can move it he said I could live a pretty normal life with it broken ? I’m very unsure if he’s pulling my leg .so like I’ve said I have a medial malleolus break ? With a slight displacement ?! What are my other options guys ? He said we can try the boot for another 6-8 weeks and after 6 weeks I can start physical therapy . Although if I feel comfortable with surgery he said we can do that as well . I should have just got surgery when he told me too . What would you guys do in this situation ? I’m still young I want to be active but I also have peroneal nerve damage which caused foot drop but it’s got a lot better still don’t have much feeling with hot and cold water but my motion has got significantly better. Sorry if I repeated anything . Thanks
I had a tib and fib spiral fracture which took 3 years to mend due to mechanical failure. I started off with a full leg cast, went on to a Taylor Spatial Frame and finished with a boot. For me, surprisingly, the most comfortable was the TSF.
Hi Glenda. Wow that is a long time. Tibia fractures can be very difficult to heal. Yes sometimes the frames are comfortable despite their appearance. Thanks for sharing and glad to hear you are healed. Thanks for watching.
Such a big help for this grandmother of 69 with my first fracture ever. It’s an ankle fracture but stable and I have an air cast and crutches. I can put weight down and walk with the crutches without pain mostly after two weeks but you explained that this is not full weight bearing which I was not sure about.
Hi Vicki. Glad to hear we could help out! Get better and thanks for watching.
Thank you so much for your input.
You are so welcome!
You guys are really great!
Thanks!
Hi docs! Thanks for the amazing video very informative!😊
Very welcome Alida. Thanks for watching and subscribing
This was incredibly helpful! Thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
Awesome, Thanks for sharing.
Hi Constance. Glad we could help. Thanks for watching.
Hey!! Really good video! I have a question however . So I was playing basketball and twisted my ankle. I have a cortical avulsion fracture of the lateral dome and two torn ligaments(ATFL and CFL). I have been in a full cast for 3 weeks now. Should I stay in the cast for another 3 weeks or can I switch to a boot? Also if I do switch to a boot, would me putting weight on my ankle affect the process of healing? Thank you and new sub! 🙏
Cast or boot for 6 weeks are both good
I love the caps you guys are wearing.
Why thank you Natasha. Thanks for watching and subscribing
Great video! Just recently experienced an avulsion fracture to my talus. Got a tall boot and weight bearing as tolerated. I hope it heals quickly
Hi doc's, i really like your videos, they are informative yet relaxed. I had a displaced distal fibula fracture. Waited 2 weeks for the swelling to go down then had orif surgery, plate 5 screw and 1 lag. I was put into a splint after surgery for 2 weeks . The staples were then removed and was put into an air cast. I was told I could take it off to bathe and to work on flexing my ankle 2-3 times a day. I was also told to sleep in it, but that didn't work, just couldn't sleep. I am going back for my 6 week post op in 2 days. I did get into my pool yesterday and have full motion in my ankle with no pain. I am 60 years old and was told that i wouldn't heal as fast as if i where younger, which is lime throwing up a challenge to me.
Hi John. You will likely be good at follow up. Nice work! Thanks for watching and subscribing if you did
@@TalkingWithDocs thank you for the reply, and yes i am subscribed. I did take your advice since I am not getting out a whole lot, and supplementing vitamin D. I have also added calcium, C, and magnesium, while making a protein shake twice a day.
Go with an aircast boot, not the fiberglass cast. It gives you control over how much pressure is on your foot. When the cast technician applied my cast, he roughly handled and misaligned my foot, pushed it into a lateral position and with both hands pushed hard on the bottom of the foot (where the fracture is) trying to force it further into an extreme dorsiflex position. I don't know why. It was traumatizing. But when the cast was finally removed, it left me with intense pain in the ankle joint, achilles tendon and heel as if my ankle had been sprained. Do not ever let these technicians handle your fracture.
Thank you for this video, very informative. I just broke my ankle and I am going to an orthopedic doctor today. Hoping for a boot, as i need to wear business pants at work and a cast is very obstructive.
Hi DroneStepMusic. Sorry for delayed response. Hope you got the boot and are well on the way to recovery. Thanks for watching.
You both are professional, entertaining and extremely informative! Do you prefer air casts vs non-air cast for a fifth metatarsal fracture and which brand do you use? I have a proximal fracture extending into the cuboid - metatarsal area. Thanks!
Aircast if you can afford it because you can take it off to wash. Both are effective
Thank you for the video. Very informative and matched the information I received from my orthopedist. I have a fifth metatarsal fracture and ankle fracture, no displaced. I had a cast for 4 weeks and now I wear a tall boot cast for another 4 weeks until my next follow up, and still in crutches. Very uncomfortable since I am also pregnant and my whole body aches now, but hope they can heal soon 🤞🏻
Hi So Crafty Studio. Congrats on the pregnancy! Yes very annoying even for those without child. Press on and take solace in the fact that you are more than half way there. Good luck and thanks for watching
I hope the baby is giving you joy now and you’re fully recovered.
Dealing with a similar injury(minus being pregnant 😅). Fracture in base of 5th metatarsal, was in cast for 4 weeks but got it soaked in water accidentally and had to take it off. Contemplating a short boot for the next 6 weeks until my next appointment.
How long did it take you to heal?
We are in charge of our own health.
I love it.
I fractured my right talus. I was in a non weight bearing cast for 3 weeks, then switched to a tall boot. This air cast is awesome! So nice to be able to walk again!
Glad to hear it Frickin Abe Bilzerian! Good luck. Thanks for watching and subscribing if you did.
Hii..i have a talus fracture...my cast is just removed..i had a surgery for the same...how long it takes to recover from it.
@@jyotideshpande3593 I’m certainly not a doctor, but the fact you had surgery, obviously states the severity of your injury. Luckily, I did not need surgery and recovered rather quickly. Recovery time really does vary from case to case so it’s hard to say with certainty. My best advice would be follow what your doctor tells you and take it slow. Eventually you’ll be back to normal with proper physio therapy. It will take some time so don’t rush it and stay positive!
@@jyotideshpande3593 same here ,
Maze pn calcaneus fracture aahe 4 week zaley ,cant bearing wight
it only took u 3 weeks to walk again?
How about for an Achilles full rupture, docs? Thanks.
Hi Joe. Thanks for watching and please check out our Achilles Tendon video. Our typical protocol for complete rupture includes a cast to start and then an adjustable boot. Hope that helps.
amazing video. thank you for that informative video.
Hi Ricky. You are very welcome. And thanks for watching.
Thank you for this! I fractured my 2nd, 4th and 5th metatarsals (no surgery was required).
Very welcome Phillipe. Thanks for watching and subscribing if you did
I have a ankle fracture lateral malleolus left, it’s only been two days and when I tell you I’m in pain. This really hurts, my OD said that the bone is broken but it’s not displaced. I’m in a CAM BOOT and also have crutches and should not bear weight for 2 weeks. I’ll have another X-ray then to see if it’s mending or if it’s spacing. I’m not sure to sleep with my boot or not, it’s very painful to wake up in at night. It’s heavy, it pains less when I take it off.
Thank you Docs! Very useful advice. I sprained both my ankles, one with fracture and one without. I have crutches and a walking frame. Can I wear boots on both feet? Or just the one with fracture?
I have had both the boot and hard cast with walking shoe for plantar fasciitis, foot fx, and posterior tibial tendonitis. I hated the boot because to me it was heavier than the cast, more cumbersome, and the worst part was the sole of the boot was so thick it threw my back out of whack plus I would cheat and not wear it like I should. I prefer the cast, because not being off the shelf it feels like it offers more support.
Hi Bobby. Thanks for your input. The height difference and weight are often an issue., We recommend people try using over the counter orthotics both in the non boot shoe to make up some of the height difference. Thanks for watching.
The boot has cause me more problems than not. I now have chronic plantar fasciitis, and had a 6 inch rash from the foam. The boots sucks (listen to your patients).
Very insightful video. I have a fracture at the base of my 5th metatarsal, diagnosis says a Jones fracture but the piece is too small for surgery. Was in fiberglass cast for 4 weeks but it got wet accidentally and had to come off.
Do you recommend Aircast or fiberglass cast? If Aircast, talk or short boot? Can I weight bear in the Aircast or stick to crutches?
How long will it take to heal?
When I was asked if I wanted a cast or a boot for my fully ruptured Achilles’ Tendon, the doctors looked at me as if I was CRAZY when I didn’t immediately answer...The responsibility of an air boot scared me; the safety and permanency of the cast gave me peace of mind. I ended up going with the air boot for cleaning purposes. It’s been 2.5 weeks and I’m already sick of it...sleeping is the WORST! 😴😢 Why did I have to run up that warp wall a second time...?
Hi Kristine. The warp wall will get you every time. Yeah, the boot can be annoying for patients. Just think, soon enough you will be out of it. Well . . . maybe not soon enough but at some point. Best of luck to you and thanks for watching and subscribing if you did.
I’m in a boot and crutches Just about 3 weeks ago. Broke medial malleolus and fibula about 4-5 inches below the knee. Also have more pain on the lateral malleolus then the actual broken medial malleolus but no break according to xray. Doctor is certain I tore up some ligaments on that side which is why it hurts even more on the non broke side. The E.R had only saw I broke my ankle but didn’t see fibula was broke. Made much more sense when I learned that because the amount of CRUNCHING I felt when it happened seemed abnormal for it all to be from a single broken medial malleolus lol. I just started being able to hobble around on it with a boot on and without crutches yesterday
I have a right fibula fracture on the shaft above the ankle from rolling my ankle and hitting tile floor and the ortho doc said I could get a cast if I wanted one but he said he would just use the boot. It’s not far off alignment but now I’m nervous as it was a full break. Go back in two weeks for X-rays.
Hi L. We often offer our patients the same choice. Both cast and boot are acceptable treatments. Good luck over the next couple of weeks. Keep us posted and thanks for watching.
Thanks for the video! I broke the base of my 5th metatarsal on my left foot one week ago and the hospital prescribed a short walker boot with crutches for 4 weeks, plus daily injections of heparin to prevent clogs. They want me back on August 22nd for X-rays to check if it healed. They recommended keeping the foot up the first few days, which I still do, I put it on a chair while I am sitting all day. The swelling got better, but whenever I put the foot down for a while, I feel the blood going into it so I try to keep it up all day. No weight-bearing cause it hurts if I try to put full pressure on it. Also, since the boot is heavy, my foot tends to rotate towards the left especially at night, not sure it that can cause problems to the healing process. My main concern is that I cannot tell how tight the boot should be. The other night I woke up cause I felt it too tight. Also my skin in general tends to be dry and yesterday I got a localized skin irritation on the foot which was very painful to the point that I could not tell if it was my bone or skin hurting. So I took off the boot, washed my foot, applied a moisturizer and then put on a thinner and lighter sock, now it feels better already. My question is: how tight the boot should be? Is it ok for it to be more loose at night or if I am sitting and put my foot still on a chair? Also should I move my toes and try to make some movement with the foot or keep it as still as possible? Thanks so much for your videos and any tips you could give me!
Hi, I fractured the base of my 5th metatarsal right around the time you sent this (life eh😅)
Made the mistake of putting weight on the foot in cast, want to go for a boot. How’s yours healing?
My doc just told me yesterday to focus on 3 months total recovery time and to not put any weight on it.
Have any tips for me?
@@elijahcube7063 hey! Ahah life indeed. Fracture is healing, x-ray was good and they made me take of the boot. I had to do some physical therapy, but to be honest it just takes time and I still limp when I walk although it’s so much better. I went to an osteopath and he fixed the bones I had twisted while falling (they had nothing to do with my fracture. My foot was just stiff, and it’s still dark, but he said within a few weeks I will walk just fine). So I think your doctor is right, it could take up to 3 months. But also my fracture was caused by me twisting my foot. How was yours? Are you still wearing a cast? Wish you a speedy recovery!
my ankle is really weak, first injury was treated with a boot but never healed. my fault because i was in pains and didn't tell the doctor that the foot was not immobilized. in my experience the boot worked only with a small break in lateral malleolus or in the metatarsals. i refractured malleolis and tarsal bones and only healed with cast. plaster is also way better than fiber. when i was set in a full leg plaster i could not belive how good my ankle felt. i tried to put weight on it and i was like "wow!". for me the plaster is much better choice.
Hi enrico. Thanks for sharing your experience. Everyone is a little different just like their injuries. Both work well but you do need to individualize treatment. Thanks for watching.
Can you explain what “short” and “long” healing ligaments mean and which is good/bad? If a ligament in the feet or toes heals incorrectly, can it be fixed without surgery? Thanks!
Hi,
Thanks for very informative video. I have had a ankle fracture and put temporary cast for 2 weeks. Now the doc has given me walking boot? Wondering when I am resting at home should I take the boot off or should I keep it? A general answer on when to keep it when to take it off would be good.
Many thanks!
Hi Hunchback. It depends on the type of fracture however if the fracture is severe, we would recommend only taking it off for washing. If the fracture is more mild, you may be able to take it off when sitting or sleeping and only wear it while walking. It is best to discuss with your surgeon. Hope that helped a bit. Thanks for watching.
What about a first metarsal communited fracture requiring open reduction?
How about the avulsion fracture of right ankle of navicular bone. What do you suggest a boot or an cast for a 49 year old female?
Hi Madhuri. Without seeing your xrays or examining you, it is hard to say but typically either option would be fine. Thanks for watching.
Thank you for this video. I have a nondisplaced fracture of the fourth proximal phalanx. Do you have certain boots you recommend? I tried one with a "rocker" bottom and the rocking motion out pressure in exactly the spot that is broken. I believe a flat boot would be better.
Hi Jacqueline. We usually do use boots with a rocker bottom because it makes it easier to walk. The pain will usually improve with time. It is possible that you need to have the straps slightly tighter as your foot should not move much within the boot. Some people do prefer the flat boot option though. Hopefully in 4-6 weeks you will be out of the boot and well on your way to recovery. Best of luck and thanks for watching
Hi thank you for this informative video! I recently had a bimalleolar fracture repaired (displaced and unstable lateral malleolus and torn superficial deltoid ligament). The first two weeks were non weight bearing in a splint. Which I followe to a tee, and first post op examination my doctor said that it's aligned and healing well. The splint was removed and I was placed in a weight bearing fiberglass cast and instructed to slowly introduce more weight back to my foot (two crutches, one crutch, no crutch) over the next 4 weeks. I just wanted to know if this was a normal progression in terms of recovery? I have been researching online and have not really found anyone that's been given the same plan for recovery. It seems that at this point people are either WB in an aircast or NWB in a cast; which has me curious. Thanks for your time!
What about weight bearing with cuboid fracture and severe ankle sprain ?
Very informative I have just recently have had archille tendon surgery/bone spur an at same time the lengthing of the tendon in calf any advise just got into the walking boot which requires me to walk in 3 weeks would appreciate advise.
Best advice is follow your surgeons instructions to the letter
i fractured my ankle 2 days ago, non displaced so i’m in a long boot and i can’t weight bear at all so I’m using crutches. I could see the fracture on the x-ray it was so big!
Hi Sophie. Good luck in the boot. Be careful. Thanks for sharing your story. Thanks for watching and subscribing if you did.
Thanks !! I had a 5th metatarsal fracture and was recommended the short air boot with crutches. I’m on my 2 nd week with very little pain. Very informative video, you guys know your stuff!!!
Lol I have the same fracture and got my boot like 3-4 days ago.
Jeffrey Studios how did you get injured ?! I twisted my foot in self defense class after a kick .
Hi Karia. Thanks so much and good luck to you in your recovery.
And good luck to you too Jeffrey!
I have the same injury and did it a couple of days ago slipping on a chalk path. I’m curious about wearing the boot in bed or not... any ideas as I want this to heal as soon as possible for work and sport!
Hello Doc's. I fractured my 2nd metatarsal 5 days ago. Dr gave me an ortho shoe and crutches and referred me to the specialist. I live alone, and have no choice but to walk around the house on one crutch when preparing meals and coffee. I just ordered the iwalk. What do you guys think of the iwalk, and what is estimated heal time? Thanks-
I have a question regarding weight bearing, while Dr. Paul said he does not allow weight bearing on a ankle fracture for 4 to 6 weeks, Dr. Brad said he encourages weight bearing and walking as long as it doesn't hurt, is this after the 4-6 weeks? Or before as long as it doesn't hurt? It wasn't very clear.
Hi Guys, awesome channel, it is very helpful. I'm recovering from a trimalleolar fracture in my right ankle. I'm 4 weeks post-op with 2 weeks left until I can be weight-bearing. I was given an air cast 2 weeks after surgery. The swelling is almost all gone but joints are still really stiff. I was wondering if now, is it okay to spend some time without the cast but still non-weight bearing? and is okay to get ahead with some rehab exercises? My main concern is doing anything to harm my hardware and bones coming back together
Hi M Dufresne. Thanks for the kind words. So exercises are often delayed until the 6 week mark. We would let our patients be out of the boot for short periods to ice or just sit on the couch but every surgeon is a bit different. You should probably confirm that. Thanks for sharing your story and best of luck in your recovery. Thanks for watching and subscribing if you did.
@@TalkingWithDocs thank you so much for getting back.
what about for a navicular avulsion fracture?
hello doctors im really looking for a second opinion here :
acute nondisplaced intra articular distal tibial fructure ,no subchondral offset is appreciated .few tiny ossific dentsities are noted along the central to medial aspect of the tibiotalar joint
thank you
Hi mo. We are not specifically able to give advice however undisplaced fractures can be watched closed. The main issue is that if they displaced and the joint becomes incongruent, it can lead to arthritis. Best to discuss in detail with your treating physician. Best of luck to you. Thanks for watching and subscribing if you did.
Please consider doing a top 5 shoes for arthritis. I have severe arthritis in my ankle. I stand on concrete my entire work shift and do a moderate amount of walking (about 12k steps a day). I have tried many different shoes claiming different things, but none seem to help much at all.
Hi Electric Barbarella. For sure. Consider Hoka. Thanks for watching and subscribing if you did
5th metatarsal displaced fracture trated with plate and screws;
Question:
Long or short boot/ cast?
Can I do WB on the boot?
Great video I broke my ankle and it was a a little displaced he wanted to do surgery Monday I said heck no ! And I got a cast for 4 weeks then a boot
Good luck Justin!
@@TalkingWithDocs thanks guys, I really appreciate it ! So I did have a PE so I was already on blood thinners and this was from phenomena 6 months ago and I had sever peroneal nerve damage when I woke up from the ICU .it went away so did the clots behind my calf’s, anyhow the nerve damage is still there but the actual motion of my foot has got significantly better , anyways during this healing process about 7 months in I had a medial malleolus fracture that was slightly displaced, I was recommended surgury but I opted for a cast for many reasons. I can walk on it , I still have the cast on , I get it off this Friday 3/24/23 and I’m still making sure I’m moving my foot so I don’t get foot drop again , and it feels fine although the other side of my ankle hurts when I walk with crutches so much because the way the cast is on I assume . After I get a boot for another 4 weeks as planned so let’s see what happens. One question have you ever seen a medial malleolus fracture heal without surgery before ? (With a very slight displacement )? Also a very clean break other then the displacement meaning no done in other areas ? If you could give me yours guys thoughts I’d greatly appreciate it, my doctor is good but I love you guys because it doesn’t seem like you want to push surgery on every single patient and that’s very respectable . I mean I’ve had very serious surgery in my eyes before so I feel like I absolutely needed that surgery this not so much ! Again thank you guys so much this question may help so many people if they see it !!!!!
Good Afternoon from Alberta, Canada!
The message from you was plain and simple.
Just over 2 weeks ago I sprain my ankle bad......I have had 2 X-rays as I still can apply little weight and the er doc says the only way it can be fixed is with physio, no boot, of course because of Covid physio is not happening. My family dr just called and said I should have an air cast.
What does one do as 2 drs are giving me mixed messages.
I would be grateful for any advice...........
Hi Janis. Hello Alberta! It is hard to give specific advice but in general we typically treat our sprained ankles with a boot for 4-6 weeks and physiotherapy. We will often let them weightbear as tolerated in the boot. Sounds like you have a sensible approach. Best of luck and keep us posted. Thanks for watching.
i broke the 2nd 3rd AND 4th metatarsal and i just finshed week three and im dying to walk again !
Hi Kelsey. Sorry to hear about your injury. Usually patients should be able to start walking in a cast or boot relatively soon. Best of luck to you and thanks for watching.
Thank you for this video. About two weeks ago I suffered from a trimalleolar ankle fracture and received surgery of the medial and lateral malleolus right away followed by a plaster splint. After one week I received a walking cast in order to start weight-bearing up to 50%. Immediately upon recieving the cast, my lower leg and foot began to swell 5 seconds after coming out of bed, and my toes become red. This is very painful. Shouldn't I receive a tall air walking boot to reduce this swelling by air compression or should I just continue the walking cast which doesn't enable me to walk at all? What is exactly the evidence for a cast? I am reading literature stating that a walking boot and even unprotected weight-bearing after ankle surgery might lead to better (short-term) results compared to protected weight-bearing with a below knee cast or unprotected non-weight bearing (the WOW!-study). Thank you in advance for your answer.
Hi Jeffrey. Glad to hear you are doing okay. So there is some debate over cast vs aircast. Both are successful and acceptable treatments and a lot of the decision making is based on the patient, the fracture and the surgeon as well as how the surgery went. The main goal is to protect the repair, allow the bone to heal, and then lots of physio. Good luck to you and thanks for watching
Hello, What do you suggest for a elderly patient with a nondepressed subchondral fracture of the talar dome and disrupted tibialis posterior tendon . Struggles with a tall moon boot, many thanks.
Hi Johnny. We would usually start with the boot for 6 weeks or so then reassess. The talar dome may heal. The tib post may cause more prolonged issues. Best advice is good orthotic in the short term and possibly see a foot and ankle surgeon to discuss other options if you are struggling. Best of luck to you. Thanks for watching and subscribing if you did.
I was wondering what your opinion is on a bunion surgery and whether or not you guys would recommend a walking cast or boot after 2 weeks of keeping the foot in the air.
Hi Kevin. We do not specialize in foot and ankle surgery however the amount of immobilization required depends on the surgeon and the procedure. Some surgeons use the large soled support because the main goal is to prevent any outside pressure from pushing the deformity back. Always best to discuss this with your surgeon. Good luck in your recovery. And thanks for watching
Hey docs, according to my xray report, I have a "mildly displaced spiral fracture through the lateral maleolus above the syndesmosis" of my left fibula which I was walking on for 2 weeks before I found out it was broken. I've since been told about the fracture and told to wear a boot while I wait for an ortho consult but no specific instructions about how much I need to wear it ie) all day all the time? only when walking? At night? I haven't had that much pain (hence not getting it xrayed until 2 weeks later) and it actually bothers me more when in the boot rather than without. My question is What is the purpose of the boot at this point? I'm 4 weeks post initial injury and can weight-bear comfortably without the boot so do I even need it? The ankle joint feels stable (no suspected deltoid ligament damage and the ankle mortise is congruent) but I've read fracture above syndesmosis is almost always considered unstable - what are your thoughts on wearing the boot or not until I see ortho? Thanks!
Would love to see another video on how to correctly fit and tighten different ankle immobilisation boots, whether it is ok to open the flaps to ice, and how to keep it clean etc. Jackie, Australia
Hi Jackie. That is a great idea. We will see what we can work out for that topic. Thanks for watching from Australia. Stay safe.
Hi doc, I broke my ankle 4 months ago but now it healed I'm able to walk again but the swelling doesn't stop. What must I do? What's the cause of the swelling. Please will much appreciate to get answer from you thank you
Hi Ghislaine. So the swelling will typically take 6-12 months to stop. Best of luck. Thanks for watching.
@@TalkingWithDocs thank you Doctor. My son had appointment today. He has to wear cast for 2 weeks for minor fracture. We need to travel by airline next week. Is it safe to travel with cast on. I talked to doctor, he said to get a splint. Do they have any suggestion. Does it cause swelling? It’s 18 hours in plane travel
Informative and concise, thanks docs. Cycling accident Sept. 1 has left me with a a 4th metatarsal fracture at the neck of the toe bone (very top of the toe shaft). I'm an expat living in Holland and I'm not used to their care approach generally which tends to be a bit more relaxed. I've never broken or fractured a bone in my body until now. The day of my injury I was put in a knee high cast. After a week, so since this Monday, the cast was removed and my foot was fitted for a removable synthetic foot cast that wraps around the foot-heel-bottom of my foot (top of toe and ankle is exposed) and the synthetic cast is fastened shut on the top of my foot with a velcro strap. I'm still on crutches and was directed to avoid bearing weight on the foot for a week, after which I can start to bear a bit of weight on the heel. This cast and treatment approach seems rushed and not right quite frankly. My fracture does show a minor displacement of the bone, yet they've deemed it not so significant to warrant any surgery/pinning. Still this flimsy removable foot cast after just one week doesn't feel secure enough. A chiropodist friend saw my x-ray, and while he also felt confident that the fracture was not so significant that surgery was needed, he recommended I instead get an aircast boot immediately and offered that the short booth should be okay. You mention using a tall boot for a 5th metatarsal foot injury however and that got me thinking. Is the short boot okay or should I get the tall version?
Hi Madesobe. Sorry to hear about your fall. Yes we would agree that most metatarsal fractures do not need surgery and can be adequately treated in a short boot. The splint they are using is also likely adequate. Best of luck during your recovery! Thanks for watching, subscribing and sharing with someone if you did.
I've had a sore foot/ankle for a bit defently should get it checked i know i should i just i have footy training i have too much going on then pain isnt too bad i tend ti have a higher pain tolerance the worst it was was like a really bad ache in my foot/ankle up the top of my foot just aching at a 7/10 pain but usually jsut an ache of a 3 so not bad its at worst a stress facture i think probably a mild sprain in my foot so probaly isnt too bad i know i should get it checked but for now its not that ad maybe in the long run but right now i would miss out on footy wich i love
I have a bad ankle sprain and have not been wearing the boot due to the air bladder not staying inflated.
Hi Theresa. You should consider having the bladder checked or get a new boot.
Currently rocking my own boot after getting a fracture through my growth plate on my fib. I did sleep in my boot for the first week, but was allowed to wbat the whole time. After the first week I was allowed to take it off to sleep and while it's elevated at rest. 5 more weeks. Ugh
I have displaced oblique fracture of the fifth metatarsal in my right foot. I had a fiberglass cast for 2 weeks and now I have an air cast that goes to almost my knee. This is week one of the air cast. I am experiencing pain sometimes in my ankle and an ache in my calf bone halfway between my knee and my ankle sometimes when I step. I use a walker to help me move around when I need to. I took a week of work to give my foot a rest and to get used to the air cast. But i feel like I don’t if I’m using it properly. I take it off for a bit when the bottom of my foot is burning or my heal. And then I put it back on. I sleep with it as well but it seems as though I can’t loosen it enough when I’m laying down with my foot elevated because it’s like it continues to tighten in the middle of my calf and over my toes. I only pump it with air just before I start to walk and then release it as soon as my foot is back on the pillow. I don’t know what I’m doing wrong or if this is all normal. Please help.
Hi Lana. It is hard to say but you may have a blood clot. You should see your doctor soon to be sure.
Thank you for your reply I will make an appointment with a doctor to have it checked
Nice video docs, After falling off and hurting the ankle post icing how soon should u consult a doctor
Hi Bullish. This is variable. If your pain is not getting better, probably need to be seen. Thanks for watching and subscribing if you did.
@@TalkingWithDocs and if its 50% better should i wait, its been 24 hrs exact
Hey guys, I just had right ankle arthroscopy, ligament reconstruction & right postermedial talar dome OCD chrondral grafting. I got my air boot today as it’s been 2 weeks since my surgery & I really wanted a cast to keep it extra safe!
Will I be good to go with the air boot?
I’m really nervous for after the 6 weeks I wear this boot! Great video btw 🙏🏼
Usually the boot is enough. Keep it inflated to be snug but not tight. Best of luck
I know this video is old so I may not get a response, but what would you do for a both 2nd and 3rd metatarsal fracture?
Hi Mills. We try to answer all comments regardless of how old the video is. Usually a short boot for those fractures
Hi dear,
What about for Weber A fracture.
How about tendon/ligament reconstruction? I find a boot to be so uncomfortable. Thanks in advance.
Ace Muneath my friend did something around there but she wore her boot no matter what.
Hi Ace. Kind of depends on the procedure. If you really wanted a cast they may oblige you. Good luck. Thanks for watching and subscribing
I have a Weber B fracture in left foot and although I spent the first day with foot raised on ice thinking it was a sprain decided to take myself to A&E next day where an x-ray revealed a fracture. My question is...I spent the first 3 days in the CAM boot doing quite a lot on my feet (vacuuming, cooking etc) then slowed down, but 2 weeks later now the pain is bad and I'm struggling to walk so I'm wondering if I may have a non union of the bone? My ortho appt is not for another 3 weeks.
Hi Fi. So by definition you cannot have a non union until after many more weeks. Usually they heal in 6 weeks or so. After that, it would be considered a delayed union and then a non union. Hope that helps. Thanks for watching.
Can one use walker (frame) for non weight bearing ankle OCD Leison postoperative recovery?
Hi MMR SPK. So this is always best discussed with your surgeon but if you were instructed to be non weightbearing, a walker is always a good choice. Thanks for watching and good luck.
If you are working in a boot constantly on your feet for 8-10 hours how does that affect the foots ability to heal?
Hi Gabriella. Usually weightbearing in the boot does not affect healing. You may want to elevate at night though. Hope that helps. Thanks for watching.
Can we take the boot off to give our feet some air? If so, when is it a best time to take it off and put it back on?
Hi Hyinth. It depends on the type of fracture and this should always be discussed with your surgeon but we tell our patients its okay to air the foot out with it elevated on a chair or the couch or something. It is important to keep it dry to prevent skin issues. Good question. Thanks for watching and good luck.
I have the top of my foot broken can I use air cast if I use a knee scooter and no weight bearing? I have had the cast on 10 days and I’m 3 weeks into my healing process .
What about a fracture of the second metatarsal that did not require surgery? boot or cast?
Hi TeddyRuxpin. So we would typically treat that in a boot but every patient and surgeon are a bit different. Both are probably options. Good luck. Thanks for watching, subscribing and sharing with someone if you did.
I had a trimalleolar fracture that had to have 7 screws placed, and I'm in a tall boot?
Hi Dee. That sounds about right. We will often protect our surgical repairs with a boot for 4-6 weeks depending on the fracture. Thanks for watching and best of luck to you.
So I can do weight bearing on a 5th metatarsal fracture if it's on the base (unclear for Jones fracture)?
Hi Jason. Typically we would weight bear 5th metatarsal fractures with a boot. Good luck. Thanks for watching, subscribing and sharing if you did.
Hello! This video has given me some hope, I'd love your opinion on my injury: I was diagnosed with a nondisplaced Jones fracture and have been in an air cast boot nonweightbearing for 4 weeks. I have virtually no pain anymore. Can I slowly start putting weight on my foot while wearing the boot? Do I have to wait until 6 weeks to ditch the crutches? The podiatrist gave me an incredibly conservative treatment. I am an extremely active 27-year-old who was running and working out 3x/week before this injury. Would love your advice as I'm feeling minimal pain, only stiffness in my foot from limited mobility. Thank you!
Hi Mackenzie. So every specialist is different. Depending on the fracture, we often weight bear our fifth metatarsal fractures from the beginning. Every doctor is a bit different though depending on their experience and comfort level. Best for you to be reassessed and have a repeat xray and to let your physician know that you have no pain. Good luck and thanks for watching.
I am in an aircast, nwb for the next six weeks s/p orif but I am obese and cannot reach to put the boot on and off on my own. I live alone and depend on someone to come over when I need help. Any ideas about timeframe or schedule of time (percentage/hours in the day) in and out of the boot? A family member came today around 10:00 and took it off for me to get some relief and it’s 1:30, they are no snow!
Hi Docs ive got a webber c none weight bearing for 6 weeks got to use a Zimmer frame as i couldn't hop with crutchers the cast is so heavy tooi also was to have knee replacements due very soon.Say if i need a operation a metal plate in my ankle would you ever consider doing both operations together? I have to go to fracture clinic next Monday to see if its still in place i had to have ankle realignment first break of my whole 63 years please reply with you thoughts thank you Janet Jones
Hi Janet. Sorry to hear this. Usually would not do them together. Fix the ankle. Recover. Then tackle the knee.
Thank-you so much for replying Doctor I realised this as I know you have to be up and walking with a knee replacement which I wouldn't be able to do I love watching your videos by the way so that will keep me busy take care Janet x
What do you think about knee scooters or the iWALK hands free crutch for non weight bearing ankle/foot injuries?
They are spectacular
What about a displaced 5 metatarsal fracture that aligned previously?
Hi Lori. Both can suffice. Thanks for watching and subscribing
Thought I had a sprain for three days but was a 5th metatarsal fracture. Boot for 2 weeks if not better then a plate next 😭
Hi Blue Dinero305. Best of luck to you. Most will heal with time. Thanks for watching.
I broke my fifth metatarsal and doctor put me in a boot. My foot is narrow and I have skinny ankles and legs. Said I should not weight bear. This boot doesn’t feel stable enough on my foot no matter how much I tighten it when I am on crutches and it feels really heavy!! When I walk with crutches, I could feel the weight of the boot put strain on my broken bone. Any advice? I feel like a fitted cast would be more effective?
I have fracture at lateral maleleous wearing fibre glass cast,can I wear boots as alternate
Hi Kiran. Are you asking if you are able to wear an aircast walking boot for treatment? Usually you can however this needs to be discussed with your treating healthcare professional. Good luck. And thanks for watching.
Hi,
Currently in an airboot after my doctor told me that I can choose between ORIF surgery on my lateral fracture or go into a plaster cast for 6 weeks. Since I thought I would be uncomfortable in a plaster cast I chose surgery also with the hopes of a faster recovery is how the doctor explained. But now I’m rethinking the surgery and would like to just go in a cast or try to stay in the boot. I’m only a week and a half out from the break, and want to know is it best that I just stay in the air-boot for faster recovery? I’m in good shape, 39, non smoker, overall healthy…I rolled my ankle playing football 🏈. Thanks!
Hi. It really depends on the fracture pattern but often the time to recovery for simple fractures is comparable for operative and non operative treatment. Hope that helps. Thanks for watching and subscribing
I broke my leg in two places, a cast for 5 weeks, then I opted for the boot. I am keeping the boot on overnight, and loosening one strap where I still had swelling on top of the foot
Very nice Barbara. Thanks for watching, subscribing and sharing with someone if you did.
What about broken tibia fibula .should i need walking boot
Hi Prateek. It really depends on the location of the fracture and if there is any displacement. This is best discussed with your treating physician.
Hello Doctor, my 6 year old son have a minor fracture on right ankle two days ago. I took him into emergency. They took X-ray and said minor fracture. They put a plaster down the knee. It is complete immobile now. However, he is really sad that he can’t move a bit. We have specialist appointment on Tuesday. Can he get a air cast instead of plaster. Can he move around a bit with the cast?
Hi Sooryante. That will depend on the fracture. Moving the anke prevents the bone from being able to heal. Best of luck. Thanks for watching and subscribing
I wish that i had the choice, I was given a velcro shoe and two Crutches then sent home.
Two weeks later i went back to hospital because my foot had developed an ifection which was very sore red and swollen, no antibiotics for me though!!!
To add insult to injury i was told that i had a fractured third metatarsal to keep my broken fifth metatarsal company that i already knew about!
So why can't 3 fully trained Hospital staff (2 Xray operators and a Doctor) see this i don't know.
Four weeks later and i still can't get my shoes on or walk properly.
I hear you...same thing...sent home from hospital after xray and Doc gave all clear...in soooo much pain...got another xray...fractured...
@@marleneabela3503 It's not easy and you feel like your on your own with no help of what you can & can't do.
That's why so many of us are looking around the internet for answers and help.
It's a long slow process to heal with this type of injury.
Take it easy one day at a time, I hope you get on alright 👍
Hi bald vale and Marlene. So sometimes it can be difficult to see the fractures. Now that you are diagnosed, it will get better with time. Once you are walking the swelling drastically improves. Keep it elevated when you are not up and around. It will throb for sure. Hang in there as most of these injuries do quite well. Thanks for watching and for sharing.
Hey docs, your'e awesome. I'd be curious to know your stance on early weight bearing after ankle fracture surgery (i.e. before the 6-week mark)? Seems like 6 weeks is the generally accepted time frame for a bone to heal, is that right? Many thanks! 🦴🙂
Hi H. Depends on how bad the fracture was and how good the fixation was. Sometimes partial at 4-5 weeks but we usually protect until 6. Good luck. Thanks for watching and subscribing
@@TalkingWithDocs thank you 🙂
What about a comminuted intra articular fraction of the medial cuneiform? Was walking on it for a month as i was misdiagnosed at an urgent care so i went to an orthopedic and was originally given a boot before they received my mri and after that i was given a cast.
Hi Jillian. Often a boot or cast would be appropriate for that injury depending on the nature of the fracture. They rarely require surgery. Usually 6-8 weeks. Then physio. Thanks for watching and good luck getting better!
Hello, I have a fifth metatarsal non displaced fracture and have been in a splint for three weeks and have been told by my doctor that I will be in the splint for a total of six weeks in which I cannot put any weight on my foot for six to eight weeks and then a boot for a month or two after. I feel like this treatment plan seems very long considering it’s not the hard to heal jones fracture that I heard can take quite some time to heal. Have you ever heard of treatment of a fifth metatarsal fracture being three months?
Hi ginaqz. So sometimes it does take longer for fifth metatarsal fractures to heal. Protocols for treatment can vary depending on the fracture itself, the patient and the treating physician. Usually it is 6-12 weeks depending on displacement and the degree of healing visualized on subsequent xrays. Hope that helps. Good luck and thanks for watching.
Hi docs, thanks a lot for the video. I had a 5th metatarsal head fracture which was displaced in the plantar region for which kwire internal fixation was done and after that a slab plaster cast was done. It's been about two weeks now and I'm on complete non weight bearing till but I was hoping if now is the time when I could use the boot or even cast but with weight bearing?
Hi jinendra. Very welcome. Often with a kwire in place you may not be able to weight bear until it is removed at 4-6 weeks. It will likely depend on the xray. Best of luck to you. Thanks for watching, subscribing and sharing with someone if you did.
Thank you so much
I wish there were suggestions on how to best use the boot! My doc simply said we need your foot immobilized so it can heal, wear the boot. Okay. But, it would be nice to have some tips on the best way to get around in the boot. I am not restricted to using crutches. I am wearing the heaviest shoe I have on my other foot, but still am more unbalanced that I’d prefer. I don’t want to be compensating and create stress in other parts of my body and I do want to immobilize my foot so it will heal. Do you two docs have any tips? Thanks!
Hi John. The short term leg length difference will not cause long term problems. Some patients put over the counter inserts in the non boot foot - maybe even both of the inserts in the same shoe. Getting around sometimes requires crutches or a cane but usually people can manage. It can be awkward for sure but it is important to stay mobile. Good luck and thanks for watching.
Thank you! And, thanks for the tip on staying mobile. I was not told to stay mobile. Just to immobilize that foot!@@TalkingWithDocs
Talking With Docs hi, I was diagnose with a 2mm low grade partial interstitial tear in the Achilles' tendon, should I wear a boot? For how long.?
Its okay to wear aircast boots after remove my ilizarov?
Non-displaced fracture of the 3rd metatarsal with small avulsion fracture between 3rd and 4th metatarsal bases. Lisfranc injury initially a concern but ruled out. Xrays at 7 days showed no displacement. How long to be non weight bearing with tall boot? What to do during sleep?
Hi Sara. Every patient and injury is different but typically if there is no Lisfranc we would weight bear as tolerated from the outset. We sometimes get our patients to wear the boot for comfort at night or if we are particularly concerned about fractured displacement otherwise it is only when up. Always best to talk to your treating physician though. Hope that helps. Thanks for watching, subscribing and sharing with someone if you did.
I have a cuboid fracture and my dr put a plaster cast on my foot pointing straight down - no chance of me walking on it. Why?
First of all, thank you so much for this video. It’s very helpful. I had a question about my cast. So I broke my metatarsal bone, and my physician has me in a hard weight bearing cast and I have a shoe I put over it to promote walking. My question is it okay to walk on it without crutches? I’ve been weight bearing on it for a few days, and I have no pain unless it’s too much walking and that’s when I will use crutches and it’s been about a week. Thank you again!
Hi Jasmine. You are very welcome! All patients are different however we typically allow our metatarsal fractures to full weight bear without crutches as long as their pain is under control. Good luck and thanks so much for watching!
Thanks for this, Docs! I have a fifth metatarsal fracture (not a Jones fracture; closer to the ankle, right where the tendon connects). I’ve had gone the four weeks of non weight bearing, and am moving into partial. Can I get a short boot that stops at the ankle for this, or do I need the ankle support of the long boot for that tendon?
Hi Liam. This is a discussion that should always be discussed with your treating healthcare professional. Typically we put foot fractures in short boots but some surgeons prefer taller boots depending on the situation. Thanks for watching and good luck.
I had a tall boot because I also pulled tendons
I have something similar right at the base of the 5th metatarsal. My doctors say it’s a Jones fracture although it looks like an avulsion to me. I didn’t know I shouldn’t put any weight in it and kept walking from time to time in my fiberglass cast for first 4 weeks, seems to have made it worse. Doctor told me to focus on recovery time of about 3 months and to not do any weight bearing on it at all. Told I can get an Aircast until my next appointment in 6 weeks.
How long did recovery take for you?