Walking Boot for an Injured Foot: 7 Buying Tips

An injured foot is a significant challenge, impacting mobility and daily activities. 

A walking boot is a viable solution to manage this issue and hasten recovery. 

A walking boot, also known as an orthopedic walking brace, is designed to protect the foot and ankle after an injury or surgery. 

It stabilizes the foot and reduces pressure, allowing for effective healing.

However, buying the right walking boot is not as straightforward as one might think. 

There are several factors to consider to ensure that you’re getting the right product that will offer comfort, provide the necessary support, and aid in a quick and safe recovery. 

This article provides 7 essential tips for buying a walking boot for an injured foot and discusses related topics like insurance coverage and where to find discounted or free boots.

Key Takeaways

• Understanding the Purpose of a Walking Boot: A walking boot is designed to stabilize the foot, reduce pressure and pain, and aid in the healing of injuries or post-surgery. They come in different types and designs, each serving specific needs. The correct understanding of the boot’s purpose aids in making an informed purchase decision.
• Fit and Comfort Are Crucial: One of the most important aspects of a walking boot is how well it fits and how comfortable it is. It should be snug but not too tight and should accommodate swelling. Comfort ensures the wearer can use it for the necessary duration without discomfort.
• Durability Matters: The materials and construction of the boot determine its durability. A high-quality boot withstands wear and tear, offers consistent support, and lasts throughout the recovery period.
• Consider the Type of Injury: Different injuries or conditions require different types of boots. A stress fracture, for example, might need a different boot from an Achilles tendon rupture. Consulting with a healthcare professional can help determine the most suitable boot for the specific injury.
• Cost and Insurance: Walking boots can range in price, and it’s essential to consider if your insurance will cover the cost. In some cases, you may also find organizations that offer discounted or even free walking boots.

Tip 1: Understand the Purpose of a Walking Boot

First and foremost, understanding the purpose and function of a walking boot is essential. Walking boots are primarily designed to stabilize the foot and ankle, reducing pressure and pain during healing. They are commonly used for fractures, sprains, tendon and ligament tears, post-surgery, and other foot and ankle injuries.

Walking boots come in various types, including pneumatic walking boots, non-pneumatic walking boots, and cast boots, each serving specific needs. For instance, pneumatic boots have air cells that can be inflated or deflated for custom fit and comfort, while cast boots are designed to be worn over casts or bandages.

Gaining a solid understanding of what a walking boot is and how it works can help you make an informed decision about which type is right for you. A previous article on types of walking assistance devices can give you more information on the different options available.

Tip 2: Fit and Comfort are Crucial

The fit of the walking boot is a critical factor in its effectiveness. An ill-fitting boot can lead to discomfort, blisters, or even further injury. Therefore, when selecting a boot, make sure it fits snugly around your foot and ankle, but not too tight to restrict blood flow.

Consider that your foot might swell, especially in the first few days after an injury or surgery. The boot should have enough room to accommodate this swelling. For comfort, look for boots with soft lining and customizable air cells or foam insoles.

Ensure you test the boot, ideally with the help of a healthcare professional or an experienced retailer. They can guide you on how to wear it and adjust the straps for a proper fit. Remember, comfort is crucial as you might need to wear the boot for several weeks or even months.

In the context of comfort and fit, it’s also essential to think about the weight of the boot. Lighter boots are generally more comfortable to move around with, which might be particularly crucial for seniors or people with limited strength or endurance. For more on this, you can refer to the walking boot buying guide.

Tip 3: Durability Matters

Durability is an essential factor when buying a walking boot. The materials and construction of the boot determine its durability. A high-quality boot withstands wear and tear, offers consistent support, and lasts throughout the recovery period. Consider the boot’s frame and whether the materials are robust and well-assembled.

Take note of the boot’s sole as well. It should provide good traction to prevent slipping, and it should be robust enough to resist wear and not lose its shape over time. A worn-out sole can affect the boot’s stability and alter your gait, potentially leading to other issues.

While a durable, high-quality boot might cost more upfront, it can prove more cost-effective in the long run. Plus, knowing that your boot is reliable can offer peace of mind during your recovery.

Tip 4: Consider the Type of Injury

Not all walking boots are suitable for all types of foot and ankle injuries. The nature and severity of your injury, as well as the stage of your recovery, can dictate the type of boot you need. For instance, a stress fracture might require a different boot from an Achilles tendon rupture.

It’s important to consult with your healthcare provider about the type and severity of your injury. They can provide specific advice on the most suitable type of boot for your situation, taking into account the need for stability, support, and mobility.

Some injuries might require a boot with stiffer support and limited movement, while others might benefit from more flexibility. Understanding the specific requirements of your injury can guide you toward the right product, helping to facilitate a faster and safer recovery.

For individuals who may be transitioning from a wheelchair or mobility scooter to a walking boot, this step is even more crucial. These ambulatory wheelchair users’ statistics provide more insights into the prevalence of mobility challenges and the journey toward recovery.

Tip 5: Consider the Cost and Whether Your Insurance Covers It

Walking boots can range in price from around $50 to several hundreds of dollars, depending on the type and quality. While it’s important to find a boot that meets your medical needs, you also need to consider your budget and whether your insurance will cover the cost.

If you have health insurance, check with your provider to see what kind of coverage they offer for medical devices like walking boots. They may cover a portion of the cost, or even the full amount. It’s also possible that they only cover certain types or brands of boots, so make sure to get all the necessary information before making a purchase.

For individuals seeking ways to finance their walking boot, medical insurance coverage options could provide some guidance, even though the linked article focuses on mobility scooters.

Furthermore, some organizations offer assistance to those who can’t afford a boot. They may offer discounted or even free walking boots to eligible individuals. It’s worth taking the time to explore these options if cost is a concern. Some hospitals and clinics also have loan programs where you can borrow a boot for a specified period.

Tip 6: Consider Ease of Use and Adjustability

A walking boot that’s easy to put on, adjust, and take off can make your recovery period much more manageable. Look for a boot with intuitive strapping and closure systems that you can operate even with one hand. Velcro straps are common and generally easy to use.

The adjustability of the boot is also crucial. Swelling may fluctuate during your recovery, so a boot that can be easily adjusted can ensure comfort and proper fit over time.

Tip 7: Research and Read Reviews

Take some time to do your research and read reviews from others who have used the type of boot you are considering. This can provide valuable insights into the product’s quality, durability, and overall performance. Be sure to consider multiple sources of reviews to get a well-rounded understanding of the product.

5 Best Places to Shop for a Walking Boot

1. Amazon: The online retail giant has a vast selection of walking boots from various manufacturers. Reading customer reviews on Amazon can also give you insight into other users’ experiences with the product.
2. Medical Supply Stores: These stores specialize in medical equipment, including walking boots. Staff at these stores are usually knowledgeable about their products and can provide useful advice.
3. Pharmacies: Large chain pharmacies often carry walking boots and other orthopedic aids. They may have fewer options than dedicated medical supply stores, but they are a convenient option.
4. Online Medical Retailers: Websites like Betterbraces or BraceMart offer a variety of walking boots. They often provide detailed product descriptions, and customer service representatives can answer your questions.
5. Direct from Manufacturer: Buying directly from the manufacturer’s website ensures you’re getting a genuine product. Brands like Aircast or DonJoy have their online stores and often provide comprehensive customer support.

Does Medical Insurance Cover Walking Boots?

Medical insurance often covers walking boots, especially if they are deemed medically necessary by your doctor. However, the extent of coverage may depend on your specific insurance plan. Always verify with your insurance provider before making a purchase to understand what is covered and what you will need to pay out of pocket.

How to Get a Discounted or Even Free Walking Boot

There are several ways to get a discounted or even free walking boot:

1. Health Insurance: As mentioned above, your health insurance might cover the cost of your walking boot, either partially or fully.
2. Charitable Organizations: Some charitable organizations, like The Good Feet Store’s charitable arm, provide medical devices like walking boots to those in need.
3. Government Programs: Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for government assistance programs that can help cover the cost of a walking boot.
4. Manufacturer Discounts: Some manufacturers offer discounts for their products or have special offers.
5. Medical Loan Closets: Some communities have medical loan closets, which are programs that lend out medical equipment, including walking boots, for short-term use.

Remember, the most important thing is to choose a walking boot that fits well, offers the right support for your injury, and is comfortable to wear. 

Doing so will help ensure a smooth and speedy recovery.

All the claims made in this article are only for informational purposes, based on the writer’s experience and not clinical advice. You should always consult your physician or physical therapist if you have any doubts about how this applies to your specific case.