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.
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 !
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
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!
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. 😊♥️
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.
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.
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.
@@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.
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.
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
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.
So when your ligament stretches, we want your ankle to be held at a 90 degree angle so the ligaments heal at a normal or short length rather than having your toes pointed down and letting it heal longer which would increase the chance of instability. Hope that helps. Thanks for watching and subscribing
@@TalkingWithDocs short means tight and long means stretched out, I think I got it thanks. I tried sleeping without a boot one week into it, and woke up half way through the night with throbbing pain and crazy amount of swelling. Had to put the boot back on and kept it on. You could say I've been a good patient :) Thank you for your reply and for informative and humorous vids!
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!
@@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!
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!
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).
@@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 !!!!!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!!!
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!
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.
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
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
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.
@@glassfusingstudio 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.
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.
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
@@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
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?
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 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!
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?
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
I appreciate the info, but still unsure on what I need to do. I had an incident last week where I rolled my ankle (not a casual “oops”, I was blacking out and legs felt like jelly, wasn’t in the right mind and attempted to get up. Pretty bad jerking ankle rolling 4-5 times). Never broke anything before, pain wasn’t severe at first. When pain hit, went to a walk-in clinic. 3 X-rays and doctor didn’t feel comfortable without a radiologist opinion. Prescribed anti inflammatory and told to wear a figure 8 brace. Next day I was called and told radiologists had a different opinion. Looked in to my chart and it said “Avulsion of the dorsal talus. Irregularity at the lateral talar process, likely avulsive injuries”. Referral to orthopedic surgeon but insurance denied because I’m not tech savvy and was a day late for my renewal because I couldn’t figure out how to upload needed documentation. Does the “figure 8 brace” help any after getting the radiologists confirming the thing I have??? My foot is almost all black, my insurance will cover me seeing the orthopedic surgeon after the first of next month. So, fractured on 6-13, have to wait until 7-1. Is this risky? Should I just go to an acute care hospital that has radiologist and more staff?
Something similar happened to me. I was having an anxiety attack and blacked out for a bit which caused an inversion ankle sprain. This happens in 5.27.2023 and it's been almost 4 weeks I still can't walk:( The bruising and swelling are gone but standing and trying to walk is so painful. I can't even go to the hospital as I need someone to carry or support me, it's really too painful to walk. I've been wearing bandage, figure of 8 wrap and a boot. I really hope I can walk sooner:(
So obviously the decision to see someone else sooner is up to you. We treat severe sprains and avulsion fractures aggressively with aircast walking boots weight bearing as tolerated and crutches for 5-6 weeks. Wear in bed even for the first week or two. Lots of ice. Best of luck
@@TalkingWithDocs I have anxiety and have learned the dangers of google. I didn’t expect any horror in a TH-cam video, but one said that this fracture cuts off the blood supply to the bone and it starts to rot. I clicked out as quickly as I could, I needed some positive thoughts on this. Obviously there are laws and you simply cannot know from a comment the extent of an injury, no matter how detailed. Is there any advice on “Not all videos are accurate” or maybe “No need to continue searching through other videos”? The whole bone losing blood supply and rotting nearly had me running out the door. I borrowed a walking boot for now. But even before, after day 2-3, the pain was minimal. I have only taken 1 prednisone (I know, but it kept me up almost 2 days) and I took a dose of Tylenol on day 2. That and the gel you have to measure to put on. I feel the bruising is like my teen, it’s just dramatic but harmless.
@@IslanderloverBKK I’m not a doctor and by no means giving medical advice. I’m saying this to be helpful. You are given 1 body. If you’re still in that much pain, I would absolutely look at medical transportation (it’s so widely available), an Uber, something, but I would get that checked out. That’s a long time to still be in that much pain. Don’t neglect your health. 1 body and that’s it. If needed, sell personal items or whatever you can to get you a ride. Anxiety is what caused me to get “jelly feet” for lack of better terms. I’ve only been in a courtroom for sentencing, my attorney urged me to give a victim impact statement despite me having horrid anxiety about speaking to this person. I won’t speak on the subject, but he was sentenced to 90 years in federal prison. Just to give an idea that this was not a great time in my life. Our case had to be separated into 2 trials, one being in federal court and the other is charges by the state. I asked my attorney not to pursue trial since he will be imprisoned for the rest of his life, but it’s a capital offense and they can’t be dropped. That was my first and only time in court. Going to jury duty and my attorney was actually prosecuting the case I was subpoenaed to? When they called my name to go in the juror box, my mind went straight back to that day in 2019. That’s what caused my feet to give out. I was in a state of panic and kept trying to get up and that’s how it took so many hard hits. After 6 hours, they finally picked their jurors and let me go. Believe me when I say I understand anxiety, I’ve been in counseling for years. But we can’t neglect mental or physical health. Please, get something arranged for you. Best wishes!
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!
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.
Full length crutches really hurt my ribs.. I found that "Canadian" crutches (thought you'd like that..) were SO MICH better and easier to use. Could you do a video demonstration for your viewers? I think they'd like that..
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.
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.
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?
Hi docs, I have a trimalleolar ankle fracture, left leg, it was displaced but they did a closed reduction at ER and put me in a splint. Due to lack of insurance I don't think I will be able to afford getting surgery on it and I would like to try the conservative route to begin with. Is that a horrible idea? And also , I don't tolerate casts very well...full casts give me anxiety / claustrophobic reactions ...do you think I could dare trying to get through this with a full size aircast boot ( and of course stick strictly to non weight bearing) ??? The post reduction health record reads like this : HISTORY: Post reduction COMPARISON: 5/3/23 FINDINGS: There is improved alignment of the ankle joint status post reduction. Ankle mortise is symmetric. Improved alignment of the distal fibular fracture at the syndesmosis, now near-anatomic. There is also improved displacement of medial malleolus fracture. Nondisplaced posterior malleolar fracture appears stable. No new skeletal abnormality. IMPRESSION: Trimalleolar left ankle fracture with improved alignment status post reduction.
Sorry to hear this. By definition an unstable fracture. Aircast or cast are comparable. Will need weekly X-rays and if it moves need surgery to avoid post traumatic arthritis. Best of luck
@@TalkingWithDocs Thank you, I'm totally ok with keeping a close eye on it and do weekly xray. Did some research online and ordered a VACOped Achilles Injury/Fracture Orthosis Boot tonight with overnight shipping. Scheduling xray for this coming week and bringing boot with me so it can be properly fit by orthopedic surgeon. Hopefully that'll do the trick
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.
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.
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?
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!
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 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?
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
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 Karina and Sophie. These things can certainly drag on. Be sure to immobilize and then do the appropriate physio to help prevent further sprains. Sometimes patients need to wear a brace for support. Good luck and thanks for watching
Talking With Docs hi I have a question, I twisted my ankle last Tuesday playing basket ball and have been off school since , I have a boot , do you think I will be able to talk soon . I can put pressure on it with crutches quite a lot
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.
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.
Hello on March 2nd I rolled my R-ankle and went to urgent care. The findings were "questionable subtle cortical irregularity distal tip of the lateral malleolus concerning for a non-dispalced fracture. Alignment of ankle mortise is normal." Urgent care put me in a boot and told me to follow up with my Dr. I went to my primary and he didn't have another Xray done and stated he will treat it as a fracture/sprain and likely stretched the ligaments/tendons. I am 63 year old female with osteoporosis (otherwise very healthy). My concern is I started weight bearing myself and the boot is killing my hips and knee! I did have hip surgery 3 years ago. My DR. told me I could go into a ankle brace at 4-6 weeks, but I'd like to do it now and get rid of this boot! Is it too early at 3 weeks? Thank you!
Hi Denise. So without seeing the xrays we are unable to comment on specific treatment options. Best to discuss with your treating surgeon. Often with less severe fractures patients can transition to a splint but every case is different. Best of luck to you. Thanks for watching, subscribing and sharing if you did.
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!
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 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
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 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.
Hi bethany. In the boot your foot makes a 90 degree angle with your tibia (shin bone) while in the boot rather than your foot falling down and lengthening the ligaments. Hope that clarifies. Thanks for watching and subscribing if you did.
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.
Hi Graphic Society. If it is early post op you need to ensure that the sole extends well past the end of the toe. A short boot is good for this. Thanks for watching, subscribing and sharing with someone if you did.
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.
Fractured my fibula in my ankle yesterday and I’m in a walking boot. Limping because it hurts to walk, though. I’m getting a second opinion after watching this video. Not sure I should be walking on it just yet.
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.
Hi Marsha. Often we will let patients take the boot off if on the couch sitting but it would really depend on the severity of the injury. Thanks for watching and subscribing if you did
@@TalkingWithDocs thank you! My daughter will be grateful to hear that! And it will keep me off her back and prevent resentment too! Thank you for responding and so quickly ❤️🙏🏼!
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 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.
I’m from Toronto, this video is very helpful, I’m on my 2nd week wearing this aircast, had a fractured ankle,8 weeks now from surgery, why it still hurts when I put weight on it?BtW, was laughing when u said about d smell,even the aircast smells so bad despite of disinfecting it daily, I found a way of putting or sprinkling baking powder inside,place a paper towel,it helps.My brain tells me to walk it off but too painful,should I wait for another week or 2?
It can be slow for sure. We advise people to gradually progress. If you are concerned a follow up with your surgeon is not unreasonable. Good luck. Thanks for watching and subscribing
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.
Man I hope you guys can find my comment. I broke my 5th meta 12 days ago. Not Jones, but toward the front it snapped and split from front to rear about 3/4 of the length of the bone. Still relatively swollen after 12 days. I wear a med boot, like it. Also use crutches when I am going to be hanging out with family or church. Restricting myself to my desk chair and the Internet. Not good. I am very athletic, and am an avid mountain biker, motorcyclist and gym user. I love backpacking ang it is prime backpacking season. In short, I am depressed and miserable, but I need this bone to heal. I would eat monkey dung if it would cut the recovery time in half. I heard you guys say in this video that you think weight-bearing is a good procedure? As in "walk on the broken foot in the boot". I know that usage will make the new bone stronger, but ditch the crutches? Cuz there is no way I can stay in this boot past November 16th. That's six weeks and it will be healed by then. Love your videos. Compact, interesting, informative, correct.
Hi Jerry. So every fracture is different. Best to talk to your surgeon. Having said that, we typically get people to weight bear as tolerated as soon as pain permits. We let them get rid of the crutches as soon as they feel safe. Best of luck to you! Thanks for watching and subscribing
@@TalkingWithDocs Thank you. 12 days in and I parked my crutches and am walking in the boot. Only from car to house, in the house and a little in the yard. It hurts but no wincing pain, just enough to rattle like a rattle snake. Worst possible time to break foot. This is prime backpacking and mountain biking season in Colorado. A.M. lows there drop to 16 degrees in five more weeks :), and I live in South Texas. Need to go today. What about a specific walking regimen? A certain number of steps, and adding a seep or two every day? I'm fit and at my ideal weight, not obese. Like maybe 100 steps (plus whatever I do in the house) today outside, and 105 tomorrow (pain allowing), 110 the day after? Or is this too much movement of the bone?
I had a tri mal four months ago. Had a cast for six weeks and went into the boot with an ace wrap. Non bearing for four months now and 2 breaks healing slowly but the maleolus is only at 20 pecent. Have Lupus, on prednisone have Raynauds. Did not have surgery. Can I go back into a cast? I also get a ton of bruisng on the back of my leg, where my calf muscles used to be, and I can't wear a very tight compression sock or use the air bladders. I just want a cast again....
If you had a plate and screw installed to fix a broken ankle and tib, do people get them removed or do you live with it forever? Is it safe to remove? Trying to learn and not have so much anxiety from my broken ankle/tib.
![BEST Ankle Fracture & Broken Ankle Recovery Time 2024 [25 BEST TIPS!]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/LZvxS101Ly4/mqdefault.jpg)
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
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!
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. 😊♥️
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.
You guys are really great!
Thanks!
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.
This was incredibly helpful! Thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you so much for your input.
You are so welcome!
I love the caps you guys are wearing.
Why thank you Natasha. Thanks for watching and subscribing
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.
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.
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
Hi docs! Thanks for the amazing video very informative!😊
Very welcome Alida. Thanks for watching and subscribing
We are in charge of our own health.
I love it.
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.
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
Awesome, Thanks for sharing.
Hi Constance. Glad we could help. Thanks for watching.
At 1:08 you talk about ligament healing long or short. What does that mean?
So when your ligament stretches, we want your ankle to be held at a 90 degree angle so the ligaments heal at a normal or short length rather than having your toes pointed down and letting it heal longer which would increase the chance of instability. Hope that helps. Thanks for watching and subscribing
@@TalkingWithDocs short means tight and long means stretched out, I think I got it thanks. I tried sleeping without a boot one week into it, and woke up half way through the night with throbbing pain and crazy amount of swelling. Had to put the boot back on and kept it on. You could say I've been a good patient :)
Thank you for your reply and for informative and humorous vids!
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?
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
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).
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 !!!!!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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
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...
@@glassfusingstudio 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.
amazing video. thank you for that informative video.
Hi Ricky. You are very welcome. And thanks for watching.
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.
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
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?
Hi dear,
What about for Weber A fracture.
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.
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.
What are your thoughts on the use of an air walking boot vs a non-air walking boot?
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
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!
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?
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.
I appreciate the info, but still unsure on what I need to do. I had an incident last week where I rolled my ankle (not a casual “oops”, I was blacking out and legs felt like jelly, wasn’t in the right mind and attempted to get up. Pretty bad jerking ankle rolling 4-5 times). Never broke anything before, pain wasn’t severe at first. When pain hit, went to a walk-in clinic. 3 X-rays and doctor didn’t feel comfortable without a radiologist opinion. Prescribed anti inflammatory and told to wear a figure 8 brace. Next day I was called and told radiologists had a different opinion. Looked in to my chart and it said “Avulsion of the dorsal talus. Irregularity at the lateral talar process, likely avulsive injuries”. Referral to orthopedic surgeon but insurance denied because I’m not tech savvy and was a day late for my renewal because I couldn’t figure out how to upload needed documentation.
Does the “figure 8 brace” help any after getting the radiologists confirming the thing I have??? My foot is almost all black, my insurance will cover me seeing the orthopedic surgeon after the first of next month. So, fractured on 6-13, have to wait until 7-1. Is this risky? Should I just go to an acute care hospital that has radiologist and more staff?
Something similar happened to me. I was having an anxiety attack and blacked out for a bit which caused an inversion ankle sprain. This happens in 5.27.2023 and it's been almost 4 weeks I still can't walk:( The bruising and swelling are gone but standing and trying to walk is so painful. I can't even go to the hospital as I need someone to carry or support me, it's really too painful to walk. I've been wearing bandage, figure of 8 wrap and a boot. I really hope I can walk sooner:(
So obviously the decision to see someone else sooner is up to you. We treat severe sprains and avulsion fractures aggressively with aircast walking boots weight bearing as tolerated and crutches for 5-6 weeks. Wear in bed even for the first week or two. Lots of ice. Best of luck
@@TalkingWithDocs I have anxiety and have learned the dangers of google. I didn’t expect any horror in a TH-cam video, but one said that this fracture cuts off the blood supply to the bone and it starts to rot. I clicked out as quickly as I could, I needed some positive thoughts on this. Obviously there are laws and you simply cannot know from a comment the extent of an injury, no matter how detailed. Is there any advice on “Not all videos are accurate” or maybe “No need to continue searching through other videos”? The whole bone losing blood supply and rotting nearly had me running out the door.
I borrowed a walking boot for now. But even before, after day 2-3, the pain was minimal. I have only taken 1 prednisone (I know, but it kept me up almost 2 days) and I took a dose of Tylenol on day 2. That and the gel you have to measure to put on. I feel the bruising is like my teen, it’s just dramatic but harmless.
@@IslanderloverBKK I’m not a doctor and by no means giving medical advice. I’m saying this to be helpful. You are given 1 body. If you’re still in that much pain, I would absolutely look at medical transportation (it’s so widely available), an Uber, something, but I would get that checked out. That’s a long time to still be in that much pain. Don’t neglect your health. 1 body and that’s it. If needed, sell personal items or whatever you can to get you a ride.
Anxiety is what caused me to get “jelly feet” for lack of better terms. I’ve only been in a courtroom for sentencing, my attorney urged me to give a victim impact statement despite me having horrid anxiety about speaking to this person. I won’t speak on the subject, but he was sentenced to 90 years in federal prison. Just to give an idea that this was not a great time in my life. Our case had to be separated into 2 trials, one being in federal court and the other is charges by the state. I asked my attorney not to pursue trial since he will be imprisoned for the rest of his life, but it’s a capital offense and they can’t be dropped. That was my first and only time in court. Going to jury duty and my attorney was actually prosecuting the case I was subpoenaed to? When they called my name to go in the juror box, my mind went straight back to that day in 2019. That’s what caused my feet to give out. I was in a state of panic and kept trying to get up and that’s how it took so many hard hits. After 6 hours, they finally picked their jurors and let me go. Believe me when I say I understand anxiety, I’ve been in counseling for years. But we can’t neglect mental or physical health. Please, get something arranged for you. Best wishes!
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!
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.
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
what about for a navicular avulsion fracture?
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
Full length crutches really hurt my ribs.. I found that "Canadian" crutches (thought you'd like that..) were SO MICH better and easier to use. Could you do a video demonstration for your viewers? I think they'd like that..
That’s a good idea Pete. We can add it to the list! Thanks for watching and subscribing
Someone needs to make a video on how to wear the boot comfortably. 😂😂 I hate this thing. Lol. But I’ll wear it regardless. 😅😅
Ok we will add it to the list! Thanks for watching and subscribing
5th metatarsal displaced fracture trated with plate and screws;
Question:
Long or short boot/ cast?
Can I do WB on the boot?
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.
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
What about weight bearing with cuboid fracture and severe ankle sprain ?
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?
What about knee scooters? Is there a down side to using them?
No El. They are game changers for sure. Thanks for watching and subscribing if you did
What about a first metarsal communited fracture requiring open reduction?
Hi docs, I have a trimalleolar ankle fracture, left leg, it was displaced but they did a closed reduction at ER and put me in a splint. Due to lack of insurance I don't think I will be able to afford getting surgery on it and I would like to try the conservative route to begin with. Is that a horrible idea? And also , I don't tolerate casts very well...full casts give me anxiety / claustrophobic reactions ...do you think I could dare trying to get through this with a full size aircast boot ( and of course stick strictly to non weight bearing) ??? The post reduction health record reads like this : HISTORY: Post reduction
COMPARISON: 5/3/23
FINDINGS: There is improved alignment of the ankle joint status
post reduction. Ankle mortise is symmetric. Improved alignment
of the distal fibular fracture at the syndesmosis, now
near-anatomic. There is also improved displacement of medial
malleolus fracture. Nondisplaced posterior malleolar fracture
appears stable. No new skeletal abnormality.
IMPRESSION: Trimalleolar left ankle fracture with improved
alignment status post reduction.
Sorry to hear this. By definition an unstable fracture. Aircast or cast are comparable. Will need weekly X-rays and if it moves need surgery to avoid post traumatic arthritis. Best of luck
@@TalkingWithDocs Thank you, I'm totally ok with keeping a close eye on it and do weekly xray. Did some research online and ordered a VACOped Achilles Injury/Fracture Orthosis Boot tonight with overnight shipping. Scheduling xray for this coming week and bringing boot with me so it can be properly fit by orthopedic surgeon. Hopefully that'll do the trick
What do you think about knee scooters or the iWALK hands free crutch for non weight bearing ankle/foot injuries?
They are spectacular
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
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
What about a displaced 5 metatarsal fracture that aligned previously?
Hi Lori. Both can suffice. Thanks for watching and subscribing
Would you recommend a boot for a 1st metatarsal fracture or a cast?
Often we would choose a boot Lydia but it does depend on the type of fracture a little. Both are good. Thanks for watching and subscribing
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
Also, does it cause blood clots??
Non weight bearing can increase the risk of a blood clot. You can discuss the role of ASA or other anti coagulants with your doctor
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?
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!
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?
Broke mine 7 months ago recovery time sucks
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
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
I have had a sprained ankle, FOR THREE MONTHS
Karina Maria sameee😫
Hi Karina and Sophie. These things can certainly drag on. Be sure to immobilize and then do the appropriate physio to help prevent further sprains. Sometimes patients need to wear a brace for support. Good luck and thanks for watching
Talking With Docs I just rolled my other ankle and I heard a snap.. it hurts to flex point and walk is this the same thing
Talking With Docs hi I have a question, I twisted my ankle last Tuesday playing basket ball and have been off school since , I have a boot , do you think I will be able to talk soon . I can put pressure on it with crutches quite a lot
Walk with boot soon ^
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.
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.?
What about a fracture of the big toe?
Hello on March 2nd I rolled my R-ankle and went to urgent care. The findings were "questionable subtle cortical irregularity distal tip of the lateral malleolus concerning for a non-dispalced fracture. Alignment of ankle mortise is normal." Urgent care put me in a boot and told me to follow up with my Dr. I went to my primary and he didn't have another Xray done and stated he will treat it as a fracture/sprain and likely stretched the ligaments/tendons. I am 63 year old female with osteoporosis (otherwise very healthy). My concern is I started weight bearing myself and the boot is killing my hips and knee! I did have hip surgery 3 years ago. My DR. told me I could go into a ankle brace at 4-6 weeks, but I'd like to do it now and get rid of this boot! Is it too early at 3 weeks? Thank you!
Hi Denise. So without seeing the xrays we are unable to comment on specific treatment options. Best to discuss with your treating surgeon. Often with less severe fractures patients can transition to a splint but every case is different. Best of luck to you. Thanks for watching, subscribing and sharing if you did.
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!
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 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 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 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.
Hello what do you mean by keeping the leg at a 90 degree angle when you sleep? My ankle tendons are torn and I want them to heal the right way.
Hi bethany. In the boot your foot makes a 90 degree angle with your tibia (shin bone) while in the boot rather than your foot falling down and lengthening the ligaments. Hope that clarifies. Thanks for watching and subscribing if you did.
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.
Hello how about big toe fusion? do you recommend short boot or Darco shoe?
Hi Graphic Society. If it is early post op you need to ensure that the sole extends well past the end of the toe. A short boot is good for this. Thanks for watching, subscribing and sharing with someone if you did.
@@TalkingWithDocs thank you 🙏
Trimalleolear fracture surgery must it be hardcasted
Not necessarily. Thanks for watching and subscribing
Hi what boot do you recommend for avulsion fracture (5th metatarsal fracture)?
Hi Vhon. A regular aircast. Some surgeons will treat in a shorter boot as well. Good luck. Thanks for watching and subscribing
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.
Fractured my fibula in my ankle yesterday and I’m in a walking boot. Limping because it hurts to walk, though. I’m getting a second opinion after watching this video. Not sure I should be walking on it just yet.
Good luck Yakin! Thanks for watching and subscribing 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’m in a walking boot after braking my fibula and tibia and waiting to go back to work after 8 weeks off
Well most of the hard work has already been done then Donna!
Neither of you mentioned a compound talus fracture. Is it necessary to leave the boot on at rest(sooo heavy)?
Hi Marsha. Often we will let patients take the boot off if on the couch sitting but it would really depend on the severity of the injury. Thanks for watching and subscribing if you did
@@TalkingWithDocs thank you! My daughter will be grateful to hear that! And it will keep me off her back and prevent resentment too! Thank you for responding and so quickly ❤️🙏🏼!
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.
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.
I’m from Toronto, this video is very helpful, I’m on my 2nd week wearing this aircast, had a fractured ankle,8 weeks now from surgery, why it still hurts when I put weight on it?BtW, was laughing when u said about d smell,even the aircast smells so bad despite of disinfecting it daily, I found a way of putting or sprinkling baking powder inside,place a paper towel,it helps.My brain tells me to walk it off but too painful,should I wait for another week or 2?
It can be slow for sure. We advise people to gradually progress. If you are concerned a follow up with your surgeon is not unreasonable. Good luck. Thanks for watching and subscribing
hello, Docs.. may I know, can I use boot on fractured tibia and fibula?.
So sometimes yes. If both bones are broken it often require surgery as it is unstable
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.
Man I hope you guys can find my comment. I broke my 5th meta 12 days ago. Not Jones, but toward the front it snapped and split from front to rear about 3/4 of the length of the bone. Still relatively swollen after 12 days. I wear a med boot, like it. Also use crutches when I am going to be hanging out with family or church. Restricting myself to my desk chair and the Internet. Not good. I am very athletic, and am an avid mountain biker, motorcyclist and gym user. I love backpacking ang it is prime backpacking season. In short, I am depressed and miserable, but I need this bone to heal. I would eat monkey dung if it would cut the recovery time in half. I heard you guys say in this video that you think weight-bearing is a good procedure? As in "walk on the broken foot in the boot". I know that usage will make the new bone stronger, but ditch the crutches? Cuz there is no way I can stay in this boot past November 16th. That's six weeks and it will be healed by then. Love your videos. Compact, interesting, informative, correct.
Hi Jerry. So every fracture is different. Best to talk to your surgeon. Having said that, we typically get people to weight bear as tolerated as soon as pain permits. We let them get rid of the crutches as soon as they feel safe. Best of luck to you! Thanks for watching and subscribing
@@TalkingWithDocs Thank you. 12 days in and I parked my crutches and am walking in the boot. Only from car to house, in the house and a little in the yard. It hurts but no wincing pain, just enough to rattle like a rattle snake. Worst possible time to break foot. This is prime backpacking and mountain biking season in Colorado. A.M. lows there drop to 16 degrees in five more weeks :), and I live in South Texas. Need to go today. What about a specific walking regimen? A certain number of steps, and adding a seep or two every day? I'm fit and at my ideal weight, not obese. Like maybe 100 steps (plus whatever I do in the house) today outside, and 105 tomorrow (pain allowing), 110 the day after? Or is this too much movement of the bone?
I had a tri mal four months ago. Had a cast for six weeks and went into the boot with an ace wrap. Non bearing for four months now and 2 breaks healing slowly but the maleolus is only at 20 pecent. Have Lupus, on prednisone have Raynauds. Did not have surgery. Can I go back into a cast? I also get a ton of bruisng on the back of my leg, where my calf muscles used to be, and I can't wear a very tight compression sock or use the air bladders. I just want a cast again....
You can Susie. Some patients use it for walking or standing in addition to some physio. Best of luck. Thanks for watching and subscribing
@@TalkingWithDocs Thank you!
If you had a plate and screw installed to fix a broken ankle and tib, do people get them removed or do you live with it forever? Is it safe to remove? Trying to learn and not have so much anxiety from my broken ankle/tib.
Often left forever. We have a hardware removal video
@@TalkingWithDocs thank you