CAM Boot no crutches

Dear Paris

I think you would be best to grab both crutches so that you can gently ease yourself into the new boot. Cheers Richard

Hi, 

I was given the clear for WB in in my week 4 post the surgery, but i refused to start until week 6, can you describe your surgery? plat, how many screws? and how do you feal in WB? did you start PT? can i see your 6 week xray?

I was partial WB when I got my boot until about week 8 when the surgeon told me to ditch the boot and FWB in my own shoes. I would say listen to your own body as it will tell you when the times right.

i am now about week 13 and only just coming off my crutches however, I had a mental block about walking as I had forgotten how to do it but slowly getting there.

Everyone is different but we all get there in the end.

Good luck, Kenny

I was given a boot at 6 weeks post op and told that I could start weight bearing as tolerated. I had to keep the boot on when walking, but could take it off if I was just sitting around. I started with 2 crutches, then down to 1 crutch, and then down to no crutches. My body wasn't used to having weight on that foot or used to doing the walking motion. It took time to get myself to do that. Also, I wanted to minimize how much of a limp I had. So I stayed with 2 crutches until I was fully comfortable, etc.  I had to stay in the boot for 6 weeks, so I didn't see any reason to rush it. At 12 weeks post op I was allowed to take the boot off and start walking in shoes. Good luck!

6 weeks post ORIF was boot with crutches partial weight bearing the first week, then more weight bearing with 1 crutch (opposite side of injury), then full weight bearing with boot.

Paris,

I can't fathom why your practitioner turned you loose to full weight bear at 6 weeks without priming your ankle first with partial weight bearing (crutches or walker frame).

Each patient's circumstances are different, so a few patients may have no problems with suddenly going to full weight bearing, even if in boot. Most of us are mere mortals however so taking it gradually and easy is probably best.

The unspoken reality (from most doctors) is that most of us suffered serious soft tissue damage when we fractured our ankles and those injuries prove a potent impediment to rapid recovery to a normal ankle. These soft tissue issues can be obstinate and take a long time to overcome completely. So be prepared.

Good luck.