Walking boots are orthopedic support products made to protect the leg or foot while you’re recovering from an injury or surgery. These specially designed boots allow you to balance your weight and put pressure on the injured limb safely. They also keep the foot and leg stable to allow the recovery to run its course.
How to Choose the Right Walking Boot for You
You might want to talk to your healthcare provider about choosing the right kind of boot for your injury. Some features you should consider when buying walking boots are:
- Strap types to keep the cast secured around the injured area
- Size to ensure comfort while wearing the walker boot
- Cast liners, as some may offer more foot support and comfort. Some liners will fit certain weather conditions.
- Added orthopedic support made of dense plastics or metals for more serious injuries
- Anti-shock technology to cushion the impact of walking
Types of Walking Boots
Walking boots come in several designs, as each one treats different ranges of conditions and injuries. Consider some of the more common types of walking boots:
Low-Top Walking Boots
These boots are cut lower and don’t extend too far up on the leg. They cover the foot from the toes to the lower calf just above the ankle, and are perfect for foot, heel, or lower ankle injuries.
When choosing low-top walking boots, make sure that the low-top style fits your ankle just right—what’s more, they should have integrated strapping aids that provide full support around the leg and compression to facilitate the healing process.
Tall Walking Boots
Tall walking boots wrap around the leg up to the middle calf. They are usually tighter and feature a cushioned leg wrap inside a durable outer boot layer. These boots are perfect when you’re recovering from injuries that involve the ankle or the calf.
Standard Walking Boots (Non-Pneumatic)
Standard walking boots are designed for acute ankle sprains, lower leg and ankle fractures, and stable fractures. They are also perfect for soft-tissue injuries of the lower leg.
Consider a lightweight, sturdy design with anatomically-shaped uprights for a better fit to ensure a fast recovery.
Cushioned standard walking boots also help in absorbing shock for heel strikes. Those linked with soft foam or nylon provide more comfort and support.
Air Cast Boots (Pneumatic)
Air walking boots are the most innovative among the different types of boots. Air casts surround the injured area with a supportive air cushion that provides customizable support and comfort. They maximize the support for the injured area.
With this customizable support, air walker boots provide reliable protection through a strong exterior, anatomically-shaped uprights, and lightweight and durable liner materials.
Probably the most critical issue when buying a walking boot is your comfort. If it’s not comfortable, you will end up removing it. Ask your doctor if you’re unclear on what type of walking boot is best suited to your needs.
Simply Medical offers various medical-grade walking boots that can help you or someone you love recover from an injury.