Foot Fractures Treatment
Foot fractures are a prevalent injury that can result in pain and difficulty moving. They can be caused by trauma or overuse and are categorized into different types, such as ankle fractures, metatarsal fractures, and heel bone fractures. It can be overwhelming to understand each type of fracture, but this article aims to provide an overview of their management, which can help individuals take the initial steps towards recovery.
Common Types of Foot Fractures:
Foot fractures can vary based on the severity and location of the injury. Some common types of foot fractures include:
- Jones Fracture: This type of fracture occurs in the fifth metatarsal bone located on the outer edge of the foot.
- Lisfranc Fracture: Lisfranc injuries happen when the bones or the supportive ligaments in the middle of the foot get damaged or torn.
- Ankle Fracture (Deltoid Ligament Injury): This is a severe injury, but relatively rare. It refers to an injury sustained to the ligament inside the ankle.
- Tendon Tear: Tendon or ligament tears involve damage to the soft tissues that connect muscles to joints. A tendon tear on your foot can mean that one of the tissues supporting your foot and ankle has been damaged.
Air Cast Boots And Foot Fractures: Benefits Of Using An Air Boot
Medical practitioners use Air Cast Boots or CAM (controlled ankle movement) walkers to assist individuals who have injured their feet or ankles. These special devices keep the foot supported and stable while allowing some movement and the ability to put weight on the foot during the healing process. Using an air cast boot for foot fractures has several benefits, including:
- Immobilization: Air cast boots offer excellent support and immobilization, which can help reduce pain and promote healing.
- Comfort: Air cast boots are designed to be comfortable and provide a soft and padded surface for the foot to rest on.
- Customizable Fit: Air cast boots can be customized to fit your foot perfectly, so they don't put too much pressure on your foot and ankle.
- Reduced Swelling: The compression provided by an air boot can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the affected area.
- Easy to Use: Air cast boots are user-friendly and require no special tools or equipment.
Transitioning Out Of The Air Cast Boot
When it's time to stop using an air cast boot after a foot fracture, it's crucial to do it gradually to ensure proper healing and avoid further harm or issues. Here are some typical steps involved in a safe and effective transition:
Gradual Weight-Bearing: Gradual weight-bearing means carefully and gradually increasing the weight put on your foot as it heals. At first, you may need to avoid putting any weight on your foot, but over time, you can start to engage in more activities that require standing or walking. The process is gradual to avoid putting too much pressure on your foot too soon, which could slow down the healing process or cause further damage.
Orthotics
After using an air cast boot to protect your foot fracture, your foot may still require extra support to heal properly. One solution to provide this support is through custom orthotics.
Orthotics are specialized shoe inserts that are designed to fit your foot's shape and offer additional support and stability. They aid in the recovery of your foot and reduce the risk of future injuries by distributing weight evenly and relieving stress on your foot and ankle. Your Pedorthist at MyoDynamic Health can guide you in determining if custom orthotics are appropriate for your situation and assist you in selecting the appropriate type that suits your requirements.
Physiotherapy
To improve the movement, strength, and flexibility of your foot and ankle, you can do exercises and stretches. A physical therapist can help you develop a customized plan and demonstrate how to perform these exercises correctly.
Range-of-motion exercises can increase your foot and ankle's flexibility and prevent them from becoming stiff and challenging to move. These exercises entail bending, rotating, and extending your foot and ankle in various directions. Performing them regularly can promote an effective recovery.
Strength training is beneficial in strengthening the foot and ankle muscles, which enhances your balance and reduces your risk of re-injury.
Taping and bracing are helpful techniques that provide extra support and protection to your foot while it heals. Your chiropractor or physiotherapist can teach you how to use these tools properly for maximum effectiveness.
Proper Footwear
Proper footwear is crucial for maintaining long-term foot health. When transitioning out of air cast boots, it is recommended that you wear shoes specifically designed for people with foot injuries, such as orthopedic shoes or sneakers with supportive insoles.
Transitioning to Orthopedic Footwear
To achieve complete recovery and prevent further injury to your foot, transitioning from air cast boots to orthopedic footwear or orthotics is crucial. Orthopedic shoes or orthotics are designed to properly support and align your foot, reducing stress on the injured area and promoting healing. These devices are custom-made for your foot, providing the best possible support and comfort.
Wearing orthopedic footwear or orthotics can also help prevent future foot injuries by correcting any underlying biomechanical issues that may have contributed to the initial injury. This is an important stage in the healing process that ensures long-term foot health.
Consult a Qualified Healthcare Professional
It is essential to consult a qualified healthcare professional to determine the best way to transition from air cast boots to orthopedic footwear or orthotics. If you have foot discomfort or a foot fracture, seeking medical assistance and working with a trained healthcare expert to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs is critical.
At MyoDynamic in Barrie or Innisfil, our team of healthcare professionals can help you develop a personalized treatment plan, guide you through the process of transitioning out of the air cast boot, and provide you with orthopedic footwear or orthotics to promote proper healing and prevent future injuries.
