Patented in 1972 and only released in 1976, the moon boot has revolutionised how people treat injuries related to the foot and leg. Before the moon boot or CAM (Controlled Ankle Motion) boot came along, there weren’t many options other than a cast to help treat certain orthopedic conditions. But, as amazing as these orthopedic boots are, they can’t treat everything. So, what conditions are they used for?
In this article, we’re going to list the most common conditions that will require you to wear a moon boot as part of your treatment.
How do moon boots work?
Moon boots are designed with a flat and rigid footbed as well as a rocker sole, which works to immobilise the foot and offload the pressure on bones, tendons and ligaments while still allowing for a somewhat normal walking gait.
Fractures
Moon boots are commonly used for the treatment of stable foot and ankle fractures, including metatarsal and ankle fractures. This is because these types of fractures require the foot to be immobilised in order to let the bones heal effectively.
Post-surgical recovery
After most types of surgeries on the foot or ankle, it’s necessary to wear a moon boot to ensure that proper healing takes place and to protect the surgical site during the initial recovery stage. Some typical surgeries where wearing a moon boot is necessary post-op will be:
- Tendon repairs
- Bunion surgery
- Fracture corrections
Moderate to severe sprains
When the ligaments in your foot or leg have been torn or overstretched, the result is generally a moderate to severe sprain. This kind of ailment would typically require you to wear a moon boot as it will help to support the injury and limit motion to prevent any further injury from occurring.
Soft tissue injuries
Moon boots are also incredibly helpful with certain soft tissue injuries like severe bruises or ligament damage. The CAM boot works to immobilise the area and, therefore, help manage the swelling and pain around the injury.
Tendon injuries
Another type of injury that wearing a moon boot will aid with healing is a tendon injury. With conditions like partial Achilles tendon ruptures or Achilles tendinopathy, restraining the movement of the area can help alleviate pain and improve the healing process.
When do you know you need to wear a moon boot?
The best way to know if you need to wear a moon boot is to have your injury checked out by a doctor so they can give you a formal diagnosis. Even with these signs we’re about to mention, always see a medical professional. You should wear a moon boot when:
- When your mobility is impaired
- When you can’t put weight on your foot
- After you’ve had surgery
- When you have a fracture or tendon injury
- When there is persistent pain and swelling
Where can you get a moon boot from?
When you have sustained an injury and been seen by a medical professional, like your local doctor or surgeon, for example, they will diagnose the issue and refer you to a podiatrist. Your podiatrist is responsible for handling most injuries of the lower limbs and will prescribe you moon boots according to their, or your doctor’s, diagnosis and will organise one for you during the appointment.
What are the benefits of wearing a moon boot?
There are many benefits that come with wearing a moon boot to treat a foot or lower-leg-related injury. Here are just some of the amazing benefits of these orthopedic tools:
- They’re removable – unlike a cast, which will be stuck on your and probably get itchy and gross throughout the duration you have to wear it, moon boots can be removed. This way, you’re able to wash your feet and lower legs as per normal
- They minimise muscle loss – while moon boots minimise the movement of the injured area, you can still move it to a certain degree, which means you won’t lose as much muscle function during the healing period
- They’re fully adjustable – if your moon boot is feeling like it’s sitting wrong or putting too much pressure on a certain area, it’s no problem, you can just adjust it so it fits comfortably while still aiding recovery
Final Thoughts
Moon boots have offered people a step up from the traditional cast when it comes to treating certain injuries. However, there will be some circumstances where you may be required to wear a cast instead. For the injuries we’ve mentioned, though, a moon boot will help your foot or leg to heal effectively and carry on with life in a semi-normal manner, as they’re designed to alleviate as much pressure as possible off of the affected area – as long as you follow your doctor’s instructions.
