WHAT IS A CAM WALKER- (MOON BOOT)?

A Controlled Ankle Movement (CAM) Walker is an Orthosis designed to immobilise and offload weight of the ankle & foot. The common term used for a CAM Walker is a Moon Boot. It’s often used as a substitute to plaster casting because it’s a more durable, hygienic and easily removable. The walker takes partial weight off the foot/ankle and a rocker sole to allow easier walking to providing superior healing and mobility- often without the use of crutches! 

WHY HAVE I BEEN PRESCRIBED A MOON BOOT?

Fractures: If you have a fracture of the foot or ankle, it will prevent movement immobilizing the foot ? Ankle and reduce stress applied to the fractured bone during healing by taking partial weight off the foot and ankle. Some muscular movement is still encouraged within the leg which can reduce the duration rehabilitation therapy after the removal of the Moon Boot.

Ligament & Soft tissue Injuries: If you have a more severe ligament strain / rupture, it will prevent excessive movement of the affected ligament and contributes to stability for rapid healing.

HOW DO I PUT IT ON A MOON BOOT?

Your Moon Boot is first required to be Professionally fitted & custom aligned for your foot/ankle and the type of injury you have. A quick appointment can be made at www.completefeet.com.au/book-appointment/

Putting On-Ensure the heel sits in the back and bottom of the liner and close firmly. Fastening straps from the bottom strap and work your way up ensuring straps are firm. Do not disrupt your walker fit & alignment by removing the inner liner.

Taking Off- Open the 5 straps and then the liner. Slide your foot forward out of the boot. You may remove for showering or cover with a bag.

YOUR PERSONALISED TREATMENT / REHABILITATION PLAN…

Severe fractures may be painful to initially allow weight on, so walking with a set of crutches or a walking stick (to be used in the opposite hand) may be required. Compression bandage, ice, pain medication, elevation and rest may also be prescribed. Following healing of your fracture or Injury, you may require rehabilitation due to the injury disrupting your ability to balance, walk or return to

POTENTIAL RISKS OF A MOON BOOT

Your injury, may increase the risk of clot formation (Deep vein Thrombosis). If you feel abnormal pain or swelling in your leg separate to your injury, remove the walker immediately and visit your nearest hospital or GP. You must walk more slowly & take care on slippery/uneven surfaces or climbing stairs. Constant, excessive weight may cause breakdown of the boot. Driving with the CAM walker is not recommended.

OTHER MOON BOOT ADVICE

The sole height of the Moon Boot, and change in walking may create problems at other joints such as the knees, hips or lower back. This may be reduced by wearing a supportive & cushioned shoe with a similar heel height to the walker on your unaffected side. For warmth/hygiene, you may wear a sock beneath the liner and over the compression if prescribed. Do Not remove the liner from the moon boot, this is set to fit only you. If required you can return for refit/adjustment by appointment as a part of the initial fee during the healing period.

WHAT HAPPENS AT THE END OF THE HEALING PERIOD?

Before discontinuing use of the CAM walker (Moon Boot) you are required to visit us and your referrer for discharge or rehabilitation. Often an x-ray and examination is required to gauge if sufficient healing has occurred. Complete Feet will provide you with a personal treatment & rehabilitation plan.

For more information go to: http://completefeet.com.au/cam-walker-moon-boot/