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A Controlled Ankle Movement (CAM) Walker is an Orthosis designed to immobilise and offload weight of the ankle & foot. 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. The benefits of a correctly clinically fitted and aligned CAM Walker are:

• Often no need or vastly reduced need for crutches
• Easily removed for washing and dressing changes for less skin problems and smell compared to plaster
• Easy walking to get you back to work and daily living quickly
• Less pain due to weight offloading effect
• An optional Air (Pneumatic) CAM Walker to helps stabilize fractures and reduce swelling
• Closed toe and hard shell options are also available for those returning to work

CAM Walkers must be fitted by a specialist medically trained practitioner. Fractures: If you have a fracture of the foot or ankle, it will prevent movement 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. 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.

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 as prescribed by Complete Feet.

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. Your CAM walker must be worn for a minimum of the amount of weeks prescribed by your Complete Feet Practitioner or Doctor.

Every fracture and injury is unique, as is the health and mobility requirements of each individual. Your assessment takes into account your fracture or injury, health, medications and mobility requirements. Some fractures may require the use of the walker 24 hours whilst others may be able to be taken off for sleeping. Each CAM Walker requires a different set of ‘clinical rules’ and you will be advised by your Complete Feet practitioner and referring Medical specialist about wearing times.

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 also walk more slowly & take care on slippery/uneven surfaces or climbing stairs. Constant, excessive weight may cause breakdown of the boot. Driving with the walker is also not recommended.

The sole height of the Walker 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. Do Not Remove the Liner or other pads/lifts from the walker, 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.

Before discontinuing use of the walker you are required to visit Complete Feet for your discharge and rehabilitation plan together with your referrer/Doctor. Often an x-ray and re-examination is required to gauge if sufficient healing has occurred.