crutchman’s Sports Watch Injury

Posted in Uncategorized | 247 Comments

247 Responses to “Sleep with boot on or off ?”

1. on 25 Jul 2011 at 5:52 pm1 bcurr

   I’ve read some people sleeping without the boot.
   Personally I wouldn’t take the risk, one wrong roll or worse, bad cramp and that could be going back a few weeks.

   What I do do is loosen the straps on the boot so blood doesn’t get cut off to your feet which hurts in the morning.
   I’ve also ordered a gel heel cup as that seems to be a place for pain as well (has woken me up a few times recently).
   Apart from that though it doesn’t bother me.

   The wife on the other hand, not sure she likes it smacking into her legs!

   
   
2. on 25 Jul 2011 at 6:08 pm2 bcurr

   For extra clarification, the straps (mine are through a loop and pulled back and fixed by velcro) are loosened about an inch. Just enough to have some wiggle room, but not enough to do too much movement.

   
   
3. on 25 Jul 2011 at 6:38 pm3 alice

   I was told two weeks ago to sleep with the boot off, but I am still wearing it most of the night. My gel ice packs fit nicely in the boot. Icing is better than sleeping/pain medication for me. Plus I am afraid I’ll trip over my nocturnal manx cat.

   
   
4. on 25 Jul 2011 at 6:51 pm4 danair

   I have been told it is cast on all the time other than when doing physio and having a bath. So I have been sleeping in mine…

   
   
5. on 25 Jul 2011 at 6:57 pm5 crutchman

   Thanks everyone. I’m about to go to sleep so really appreciate the quick responses. Boot will be on during sleep and loose straps. Boot walked all day and tendon feels sore. Will ice it right away.

   
   
6. on 25 Jul 2011 at 8:33 pm6 deana

   Thought I’d add my two cents. I went from a cast to a boot at 10 days post-op. I kept the boot on for sleeping for about 3 more weeks, though I actually took the front plate right off and did the straps back up. My understanding of the issues around sleep are not so much a bad roll or cramp, but that while relaxed, your foot tends to “point” down more, and the tendon could tighten up short overnight. In the morning, if you rush to jam your heel down into the boot before your tendon is loose enough you risk re-injuring it. Keeping my foot “flexed” in the boot without the front plate seemed to solve that issue, while eliminating the sore spots I was getting from being strapped in with the plate 24 hours a day. After three weeks, I felt confident enough to sleep without any of it. But I continue to do lots of ankle rolls and gentle ROM motion exercises when I wake up, before I put on the boot or try to bear weight on my foot.

   
   
7. on 25 Jul 2011 at 9:02 pm7 tkd108

   I only slept with mine for about a week post op. It drove me nuts. Haven’t slept with it since. Got the actual “OK” from my doc about 2 weeks ago. Haven’t had any issues. It feels good when I sleep.

   
   
8. on 26 Jul 2011 at 3:36 am8 bcurr

   @deana
   Sleeping without the plate sounds a good idea. Them sore spots really can get …. sore!

   
   
9. on 26 Jul 2011 at 4:44 am9 mtbrider

   Yep, I am another boot sleeper. I figure that when the boot is on you do not have much of a risk, however if it is off the possiblities could are more serious. There is a good chance you will be fine, but I figure for me it is not worth the risk. A few wee drams before bed, loosen the straps before getting in and you should get a good nights sleep. If not add a few more drams until you do get a good one!

   
   
10. on 26 Jul 2011 at 3:31 pm10 quepasa18

    I take my boot off whenever I’m just sitting around and when I sleep. I put it back on whenever I’m moving around though. I’m still NWB and need crutches to get around and my doctor advised keeping the boot on when I move just to be safe. I’m a bit accident prone so I do that.

    I’ve noticed that it is stiffer in the morning than if I’d kept the boot on, but it’s just so much more comfortable to sleep without it. I am just careful in the morning about easing back into the boot. And if I wake up during the night I stretch it a bit.

    
    
11. on 21 Aug 2011 at 12:15 pm11 jflyfish

    So if it preferred to have the tendon neutral or toe pointed down while sleeping?
    My plan was to not sleep in the boot, but switch back to the splint (which points toe down) for sleeping comfort.

    
    
12. on 21 Aug 2011 at 4:22 pm12 crutchman

    I’m not much of a mover when i sleep. At week 6 i just took the risk and slept without the boot. What i did is sleep on my side and used my good foot as a buffer to protect my bad foot from over extending upwards. But also i new i had a good ROM so that even if the foot extended i will not cause major damage. Also you have to remember you want to gradually move your foot back to neutral position, so if you want to use the splint make sure its in the same position as the boot otherwise its counter productive. Good luck and remember there is a slight risk of injury sleeping with out a boot so be careful specially if your foot does not have a good ROM.

    
    
13. on 21 Aug 2011 at 5:25 pm13 bcurr

    Feel I should update my comments. From Week 6 post-op I started sleeping without the boot. I figured if I was standing without boot in the shower and shuffling bootless to the kitchen, I could sleep without a boot on.

    
    
14. on 24 Aug 2011 at 9:03 pm14 fry199

    I got the green light to sleep without a boot at 5 weeks. Though, I don’t move much and I never get up in the middle of the night. The advice to warm up your foot before putting weight on it in the morning is a good one - I spend about 10 minutes doing it after I wake up. I also sleep with the foot outside the blanket, just in case it gets caught up when I yank on the covers.

    
    
15. on 27 May 2012 at 2:28 am15 Jo Holland

    Splinter 5th metatarsal, have plate and pins. Was informed I will no longer have my doc - they won’t tell me why he’s no longer available - of course I’m not happy about that. Had to wait 9 day for surgery; all I know is, if you are going to do this, don’t do it at 63 and when you are fat. Crutches suck. Had an electric ‘Jazzy’ chair for 4 weeks and the 5th week felt I should have kept it one more week - too late. Now into my 6th wk since surgery. I don’t toss and turn much in bed, but still concerned about not wearing the velcro boot. May wait til Wed - week 6 and then sleep w/o it. Was to see Dr. Friday - 2 days after the 6th wk past surgery, but now have to wait another 5 days. Was told I could start putting weight on the heel at week 6, so Friday I will be doing that doc appt or not — I can’t do this any longer. Plus yesterday was the 1st day that I could tell the foot is a lot better. Must add that I’ve had acupuncture and have taken supplements from that doc that I feel have helped the healing go a bit faster. Still hoping to be totally done and out of the cast and walking almost normally at week 8. I do think it does help to have foot out of cast when resting and do some rotating of that ankle. Also felt the need to protect the ‘good’ ankle that is carrying all the load. Have soaked in Epsom Salts and have worn an ankle brace when I have to do an extended errand. Also used a knee scooter instead of crutches most of the time. Crutches are for people under 20.
    Yep - Get Better Out There.

    
    
16. on 02 Nov 2012 at 11:11 pm16 Seth

    my doctor told me i could sllep wothout the boot, he said the tendons is stitched and not the risk the risk is too much rehab and stretching the tendon too much.

    i am 16 days post op.

    
    
17. on 30 Jul 2013 at 1:43 am17 deb

    I got the boot cast two weeks from surgery. Got pins and plate and lovely cuts from surgery. Was not told exactly when I could take these stitch bandages off. And then do I put regular bandages. I wasn’t sure on the boot but I see lots of different answers so think I will sleep th it on for 6 weeks. I think I am just going to be scared to take it off for bathing afraid my ankle will dangle and that’s the other thing…how long before hopping in to bath or shower with those surgery wound. This whole thing freaks me out, I just want to careful so I heal fast. I hope.

    
    
18. on 29 Sep 2013 at 2:49 pm18 john coppinger

    I have had the boot on for 2weeks first week i slept with boot on.2nd week i took it off. I have been using a bone builder machine from VA and will be checked again on the 16th of Oct.I elected not to have surgery even though they said I broke the bone in the 5th metesorsal

    
    
19. on 23 Apr 2014 at 7:24 am19 JK

    I’d like to hear more about a bone builder. Does VA pay for that?

    
    
20. on 15 May 2014 at 9:46 am20 Freddie

    I broke my ankle 10 days ago and have a walking boot and crutches. Doctor said I could take boot off at night, but I’m keeping it on. Got used to it and I sleep well with it. I’m just too worried that my foot gets tangled with the blanket or I roll over and hurt it again.
    With the boot on, I don’t worry about it, which means better sleep for me.

    
    
21. on 20 May 2014 at 8:14 pm21 Help

    So do i wear it or no

    
    
22. on 04 Jun 2014 at 4:17 pm22 vegasjoey

    I get my boot tomorrow after 2 weeks in a cast (4 weeks total, 2 weeks in a splint). I’ll ask my doctor weather to sleep with it on or off? Do we still need sleep with the leg elevated?

    
    
23. on 07 Jun 2014 at 6:11 am23 Hope

    I am 5 weeks post surgery and just finished week 2 in a boot after 1 week in a splint and 2 weeks in a cast. I have not slept with my foot elevated for a while. Up to you. Depends on how comfortable you are. Only really necessary for as long as it feels swollen. It’s interesting how different each person’s experience on this site is. I will be boot free at week 7 according to my surgeon and will start PT at that time. Until then he told me to do stretching and ROM exercises whenever I am resting (with boot off).

    
    
24. on 18 Jun 2014 at 3:11 am24 annette

    this is a great page of advice. thanks everyone for all your stories … its so helpful to read your thoughts. I broke my ankle 3 places and its been a tough road..I have choose to sleep with my moon boot on as the pain was too much to cope with. This is my 8th week and I have 4-6 weeks to go before next hospital checkup. I will attend pt and am really afraid as I don’t like the pain. Will co.mment and share when I have tried, thanks everyone for sharing.

    
    
25. on 19 Jun 2014 at 9:15 am25 Phyllis Locke

    I had surgery four weeks ago and i have absolutely no pain associated with my ankle. I slept in boot shoe for two weeks and it was uncomfortable for me. I am very careful while sleeping with it off. Hopefully when i return tothe doctor on July 3rd he will tell me to start walking on it.

    
    
26. on 27 Jun 2014 at 7:30 pm26 Jenn77

    I broke my foot metatarsals 2,3,4 on June 20. I just got a boot yesterday. As soon as I got home I realized they didn’t tell me when not to where it. Also, can I ice directly on the break. I’m so itchy right now…I want to take it off all the time. Should I invest in a moon boot I can pump up with air. I have no,patience and want results with no set backs as fast as possible.

    
    
27. on 10 Jul 2014 at 2:32 pm27 Gr8Cthulhu

    Fractured 5th metatarsal on the 4th and was in ER cast for four days. Ortho put me in boot and have been wearing when up and about but remove it and raise foot when resting. Is this ok? No surgery recommended but told 6-8 weeks to heal. Stopped sleeping with boot last night and had no issues.

    
    
28. on 14 Jul 2014 at 9:13 pm28 Chris

    This is a great forum because I am 14 days from post op from an achilles rupture and I got my boot today. When my doc said to sleep with the boot and only take it off for showers and pt, I went searching online for validation. Seems like others have gotten the same advice so it makes me feel better that I am (unfortunately) sleeping in this monstrosity. Those who went back to the splint at night- sounds like a good idea. I wish I had it. The boot to me is more uncomfortable to sleep in.

    
    
29. on 21 Jul 2014 at 5:08 pm29 Angela Smith

    I have been in a cast for 3 wks after partially tearing my achilles tendon now have to wear a boot for another 7 wks. How long before im able to drive?

    
    
30. on 22 Jul 2014 at 2:25 pm30 atrbuff

    My niece asked me that before her first driving lesson.

    However I am assuming that you have learnt to drive already - you should be able to do so when you are out of the boot, wearing 2 shoes, and able to do an emergency stop. Also, if a lot of city driving and you have a manual box, you need the strength back in your legs.

    In the past this question has prompted all sorts of claims about being able to drive with the boot on, whichever leg is affected. Personally I wouldn’t want to contest an insurance claim from an injured party who saw what you were wearing when you hit their car, or run them over.

    
    
31. on 22 Jul 2014 at 3:49 pm31 Tania

    I fractured my 5 th metertasal 6 weeks ago and my ankle. I had a plate and six screws inserted into my foot for the metertasal break. I had X-ray’s today and can partial weight bare. I have been in a moonboot since week 1 after the back slab. I have worn my moonboot every night. My foot is swollen after placing weight on it. I sleep with my leg elevated every night, on two continental pillows.. If I am in my back , I put a small pillow under my moonboot leg as well, to help the incline. Keep the boot out the covers. When I am on my side I place a small pillow between my knees, and also use two continental pillows. The swelling is down every morning.

    Up until now I have only taken my boot off to shower or bath.

    
    
32. on 23 Aug 2014 at 3:33 pm32 Amanda

    I’m even more confused! Is it down to the specific injury do you think? I had an unstable fracture (last Thursday) on the tibia, in an immediate cast for 6 days (travelling back home) then x rayed again and operated on last Thursday to insert a plate. I was told to remove bandaging today (72hrs) and re-apply the ‘plater covering’ over the 16 nasty stitches. I have an air pumped moon boot. I have elevated my foot as much as possible over last 72 hours and in bed, but told not to have to sleep with boot on, which I haven’t (I’ve slept fine). I am however worried that my foot won’t be in the position it should be (I feel like my toes are pointing and it is stretching). I leave the boot on most of the day, but should I leave it on all the time AND at night??! help please!? x

    
    
33. on 25 Aug 2014 at 11:28 am33 Elise

    I have been dealing with my broken ankle for 16 days now and this has been the most miserable experience. I broke my ankle coming down a Fourteener and am so frustrated being completely immobilized and dependent. The Doctor cast my leg while it was still very swollen (a week after the accident) and the cast had to be removed in the ER two days later. I have been in a ridiculously heavy and painful boot since. Every muscle throughout my body is achy and sore. I am used to being very active and my body is in shock.

    I feel that the approach to healing a broken ankle is from the dark ages. Being asked to left a heavy boot with a broken ankle seems contradictory. I have tried sleeping with and without the boot. I have opted not to sleep in the boot as it is so painful in the boot. I have a lousy Orthopedic group so feel ill advised and on my own.

    It seems that there has to be a better alternative to this for most of us. I wonder if there are Doctors working on a more innovative approach to bone breaks. I think this will continue to be a slow and grueling process and I’m losing my optimism.

    I am on a scooter which provides much more flexibility than crutches. It has a basket on front so I can move about freely and carry things. I have it for 4 weeks and had to pay $130 out of pocket but it is worth every penny! There should be a healing blog for people going through this as it is frustrating and discouraging and we all need to support each other through recovery.

    I would love to hear some happy healing stories about people who came out better at the other end and how they figured it all out.

    
    
34. on 28 Aug 2014 at 2:25 pm34 Amanda

    Thanks Elise,

    I feel so awful for you, it’s so hard to be so dependent on everyone else, I am also hugely independent and don’t stop usually, but it shows that some things just don’t matter and can be left!

    I agree with the lack of information and help on aftercare - and confusion with the boot; I assume its more protective and moulding than for lifting around (although surely a lighter weight material could do the same job!?) I too have tried to sleep with the boot (after sleeping without it) as I was concerned that my foot didn’t look the right shape.

    What I can say is that the pain is much worse after trying to move around, so surely makes sense to rest!

    Good luck x

    
    
35. on 04 Sep 2014 at 10:09 pm35 christian

    Hey everyone - there is a pretty solid website with loads of info on exactly this topic. It’s mybrokenleg.com. i started posting there as CDK since i broke my tib/fib in late July 2014. I have no other affiliation with the site

    
    
36. on 06 Sep 2014 at 11:52 am36 Ian

    I am in my seventies and had a complete ankle replacement procedure three weeks ago. I have just been put in a moon boot. Loss of independence is the worst aspect of the deal. Finding a comfortable position to sleep with a combination of pillows to prop up my leg to is the next hurdle to overcome but I tell myself that all the aggravation will improve my life when I heal. I will be in the boot for another two months. There are pills for pain but nobody has yet invented anything for boredom! Anyone got any cure for backache caused by all the sitting and lying around?

    
    
37. on 22 Sep 2014 at 1:14 pm37 Robin

    Hello to everybody. I broke my 2nd, 3rd and 4th metatarsal, lateral and medial cuneiform. I wore a splint for the first ten days. I now have the moon boot and I sleep in it and only take it off when bathing per doctor’s orders. This helps with flexion and prevents one from getting drop foot. Yes, it’s very uncomfortable but considering that all my breaks were non displaced, it’s preventing me from needing any surgery. So I’m willing to do whatever it takes for that. I do as a lot of you have written, just loosen the straps and deflate it. My doctor told me do not bear any weight and that I will have to wear the boot for 8 weeks. I was also instructed not to drive.
    Yes, it really sucks, especially if you’re independent like me. I have a walker, crutches and shower chair. I am still recuperating from shattering my right elbow, after being off work for 3 months. It will be a year from my surgery on December 26th. This has not been a good year for me!!
    Wishing everybody a speedy and good recovery!!!

    
    
38. on 26 Oct 2014 at 12:47 am38 Janet

    I have a non-displaced fracture of the 5th metatarsal. The dr threatened surgery unless I am a very good non-weight bearing girl and said I must sleep with the boot. I took the internet advice of removing the front plate at night while tightening the straps. This relieved the pain though I think it was hard on my heel which was going to blister until I applied some moleskin. With moleskin and loosening the boot is comfortable at night and I have gotten rid of the heel pain.

    
    
39. on 26 Oct 2014 at 12:49 am39 Janet

    Also forgot to mention that the hands free crutch my friend is loaning me - the “I-walk” - is very, very awesome for this particular break. It’s like walking normally, though a lot slower on stairs and you really have to watch how you plant it. I recommend it for the crutch haters out there.

    
    
40. on 19 Nov 2014 at 9:46 pm40 Nadari

    What is drop foot? I was so excited about having the boot after about 2.5 weeks the splint and stitches were removed. The boot after a week or two of sleeping with it I tried to do it without the boot and propped on the pillow. In the boot my heel stays up I have to force my foot down which I do not like to do. I walk around in the boot sometimes I can get my foot flat in the boot without force other times it just gets uncomfortable to have it on. I try to exercise my ankle every chance I get. The swelling has stopped so I am happy about that. I find it hard to get my foot to flex all the way on my own. I am doing everything to help my bones to get stronger, have a good diet and taking my vitamins. The tape that is placed on the wound the doctor said to let them fall off on naturally I try not to wet them. Any advice as to what kind of exercises I can do and is it ok to wet the tape on the wound.

    
    
41. on 21 Nov 2014 at 3:13 am41 normofthenorth

    Nadari, start a blog if you can, instructions on the Main page.
    I think Drop Foot is what it sounds like, but I’m not clear on why it happens.
    Do you have an easier time getting your heel into the bottom of the boot after you sleep in the boot? (If so, maybe keep sleeping in the boot for a while.)
    Do you have any heel wedges in your boot? At 2-3 weeks post-op, most modern successful protocols - like the 3 at AchillesBlog.com/Cecilia/protocols - are still using heel wedges, or a hinged boot set at an equivalent angle. Some good protocols gradually remove wedges, and others keep them in until they’re removed around 6 weeks in.

    
    
42. on 21 Nov 2014 at 1:36 pm42 gravity

    Drop foot is classically a nerve damage issue, but can occur in ATRs due to muscle atrophy (fibularis muscles, I think). This was something my PT specifically mentioned when I was going through the latest set of exercises with her. Apparently this is one reason (along with better stability) why it is important to work some of these smaller muscles at the side of the lower calf, in order to avoid drop foot like symptoms when starting to walk again.

    
    
43. on 22 Nov 2014 at 1:26 pm43 jb

    this is best info I have found about foot injuries.
    help! need ideas/advice. I have a broken fifth metatarsal on my left foot, and was given a big cam boot to wear constantly for 6 weeks. injury happened 8 days ago. I cannot sleep w boot…painful, heavy, etc.
    have taken it off in middle of night for an hour or two — but am concerned about re-injuring it. dr says no such thing as night cast. boot is also irritating my knee, which feels stressed by the extra weight… and seems a bit hyperextended when walking.
    any and all ideas welcome.
    The lack of sleep is really difficult.

    
    
44. on 22 Nov 2014 at 7:09 pm44 herewegoagain

    jb- I had a stress fracture of a metatarsal a few years ago that wasn’t correctly diagnosed for a few weeks. I kept resting and icing etc for a week and then was cleared to go back to sport, which was a disaster. I think that you would need to wear the boot 24/7 for the first few weeks and then may be OK to take it off at night- the challenge is that as soon as the break re-opens then you are back to square one. Good luck- in the scheme of things recovery is straightforward just a nuisance!

    
    
45. on 23 Nov 2014 at 12:26 am45 normofthenorth

    JB, what’s the model and make of your boot? Some are definitely lighter than others. And some may fit your foot better than others. It shouldn’t be uncomfortable (especially lying down!) if it’s properly sized and adjusted, though it’s hardly what we’d choose to sleep in if we weren’t injured! It’s not unheard of for people to get boots one size too big, and get them switched later.
    If you’re walking with good technique in a properly sized and adjusted boot, there should be nothing close to knee hyperextension. The boot’s heel hits the floor/ground first, then your weight shifts onto it and forward, knee forward, as you roll over the curved sole, from heel to toe. As your weight gets forward of the heel and your heel lifts off the ground/floor, you would normally use your calf and AT to support your weight and your (injured) little toe would do some of the pushing. But in your injured state, the stiffness of the boot should transfer the force of your weight through the boot, from under the “toe” to the top of the cuff and to the front of your shin. So your broken toe should be able to “go along for the ride” without pushing down. (Your calf and AT will also get a rest, same as us ATR folks, although they’re not injured.)
    You can also get into trouble (walking, not sleeping) if your uninjured foot is in a normal shoe, much lower than your booted foot. The Vaco EvenUp is one solution, and there are several others, from big hiking boots with added footbeds, to custom shoes, to a “cast shoe” strapped around your other-side shoe, etc. But it’s important to get your stance straightened out, so you don’t damage your knees, hips, back, etc.
    I hated contacting the boot with my bare uninjured foot while I slept, and felt more comfortable with a pillow under the boot. I’m having trouble picturing how sleeping in a boot — even a big heavy one — hurts your knee, unless it’s really already hurt from walking peg-leg or hyper-extended.

    
    
46. on 23 Nov 2014 at 3:07 pm46 jb

    thank you both so much for your insights. I have the ossur rebound air walker low. I must not be walking properly… and I have tried to find the right shoe for my good foot to even things up… but perhaps I haven’t. for sure my knee is aching. last night I kept the full boot on for much of the night, but ended up taking off the top piece halfway through, and found that hugely helpful. I’ve also realized I can move the big air pump button (didn’t realize it too was held on by Velcro) and that has helped the boot “fit” better. my shoe size is on the cusp (womens 9) and I have the larger boot (m). fear the small would be too small.
    anyway, I guess I need to work on finding the right shoe for my good foot.

    
    
47. on 25 Nov 2014 at 3:29 pm47 Donna

    I’ve had this boot on for 3 weeks now, what’s happening now is I’m getting like Charlie horse cramps, and they hurt so bad. Now all day long, my back of my leg muscles hurt more then the break does…why is my leg cramp at night? I wear my boot to bed. Alls comfortable till I need to get up to pee…bam! Cramp!

    
    
48. on 26 Nov 2014 at 3:04 pm48 normofthenorth

    Jb, stay creative!
    Donna, lots of us experienced calf cramps during rehab. Up to a point, they’re a harmless pain. Past that point, they can damage a weak healing AT. Drugs are the usual cure (prescription versions of back pills), though others recommended home cures, like drinking more water or eating more potassium (bananas). My wife gets calf cramps with no ATR, and she gets relief from a heating pad.
    Your leg has been immobilized (and then semi-immobilized) for the longest period in its life. You may be NWB for almost as long as when you were an infant. Its not shocking that your muscles and nerves and tissues would start going stir-crazy. Good luck, and contact your OS if it seems worthwhile.

    
    
49. on 26 Nov 2014 at 3:41 pm49 Stuart

    Donna - low magnesium levels as well as other salts and calcium can contribute to night cramps. A warning for potassium. If you suffer from hypertension then you may not be able to take potassium supplements. Eating bananas should not have a great affect on hypertension unless you eat them by the dozen. I put a friend of mine onto pink salt or Himalayan rock salt instead of normal table salt and it fixed his night cramps. I don’t think it has magnesium in it though and that is an important one.

    
    
50. on 03 Dec 2014 at 8:12 pm50 Tina

    I was put in a boot yesterday. I have 10 more weeks of nwb. I don’t know how I’m going to do this. I have a lump in the middle of my foot and I think the preasure from the boot is causing sharp pains in my toes. I am so miserable.

    
    
51. on 06 Dec 2014 at 10:47 am51 Karina

    I had a List Franc fracture of my right foot three weeks ago, surgery to put in screws and pins. I use a rented wheel chair to keep my foot elevated and to enable me to function around the house. My boot is always on, even at night, except during the bath. This ensures no sudden wrong movement that could worsen or re-injure.

    I found homeopathic remedies useful for pain management without having to rely on toxic pain killers past a certain point. Arnica can help with shock and the pain of swelling, Ruta with the achy pain of getting used to being in the same position all the time, and Rhus tox for stiffness on first moving with limbering up after. If there is nerve pain or shooting pain, Hypericum is the remedy. If you have these remedies available locally from a health food store or drugstore, they can give much relief.

    
    
52. on 07 Dec 2014 at 2:42 pm52 Jerry

    I was in a cast 10 weeks followed by a boot for 2 weeks. I was told I can remove boot as much as I can handle but always have with me. I can also sleep without it. First 2 nights I kept in on but loose while sleeping, figured I would wait until I had more ankle movement and built some muscle. Last night I slept with it off but wrapped ankle and up leg aways to help keep still and it worked. I did wake up every time I wanted to roll over, I think you will do that for awhile and sleep w I th your leg like you still have a cast or boot on. Thats just me but you can try it and if before you fall asleep and feel uneasy you can put the boot back on loose and work your way up to it.

    
    
53. on 23 Dec 2014 at 4:26 am53 AJ

    It’s going on 11 weeks since I broke my leg (tibia and fibula) and I still sleep with the boot on… I asked my doctor and he said it’s better for my foot to be at a 90 degree angle than to be pointed down and that keeping it at that angle helps to heal the bones/tendons/muscles faster.

    
    
54. on 08 Jan 2015 at 6:51 pm54 Joanne Robinson

    Hi All…great site. Had total ankle replacement 7 weeks ago. Have just had my fourth cast off and am now in huge boot and velcroed up. Had to keep having new casts on as wound would not heal. Feel better in boot and tonight’s my first night. As I’ve not slepf for 7 weeks am looking forward to a decent nights sleep. I was advised to keep boot on but if I’m not a wriggler then I could take boot off for comfort. Guess it’s up to individual choice and what feels best. I have Rheumatoid arthritis and my joint had completely disintergrated so had to have op but can honestly say if my left ankle went I’d think about having it replaced. It’s been a long haul and I’m still not there yet. Good luck to you all.

    Jo xx

    
    
55. on 28 Jan 2015 at 7:41 am55 Cv

    About 7 weeks post OP, had a Lisfranc injury, NWB for a couple more months, I wear the boot when I move around and sleeping but laying on the couch or in bed it’s off. Just wondering if I can take the boot off to sleep now ? Or what is the point of the boot exactly? The surgeon didn’t explain anything at all and I can’t find a decent article about it, I was in a cast for about 3 weeks after surgery and now wondering what is the point of the boot? To protect it or to still continue the healing with it being at 90 degrees ? Just wondering if anyone can help me, cheers.

    
    
56. on 29 Jan 2015 at 6:43 pm56 leny

    I’ve got fractured foot, fibula and small toe two weeks ago. I’ve had a boot since then.. I specifically asked when its okay to remove it. I was told to take off at night or when resting & obviously if having a bath. Warned not to put full weight on it & use crutches when possible. Been to hospital again today & doc seems happy enough with progress & next appointment in 5 weeks. Watch this space.

    
    
57. on 04 Feb 2015 at 6:10 am57 Dawn Lindsey

    Had bunion removal yesterday and have hard air boot for walking. Took it off Las night but it now hurts this morning. Any advice please?

    
    
58. on 16 Feb 2015 at 8:04 am58 Jilly

    Two weeks ago the 2/feb my foot slipped off the step and i spiral fractured my fifth metatarsal,separated.
    Also sprained my ankle quite nicely. A backslab for the first week. A week later at the fracture clinic the
    Dr i saw then put me in a full below the knee cast and said i will see you in five weeks, did not say anything
    about NWB. But i used my own judgment and decided NWB would have been the correct answer to that question.
    Due to my foot and ankle still swelling every time i have to get on crutches i could not stand it.
    So we went back today and had the remainder of the cast removed, long story but i did say i could not stand it.
    My foot felt like it was in a vice and being cut in half all at the same time. Apparently i did the right thing
    in a round about way. When the toes start turning blue, drastic measures need to be taken. Anyway tonight i find
    myself in a moonboot NWB for the next five weeks. After that it will be another x-ray and we take it from there.
    I was told i could do a simple exercise of raising my leg up and down laying on my back after two weeks, also remove
    it for showers and baths, and wash the insert every week or so in soapy water. I am normally quite active, a jack in
    the box, so this is doing my head in. Anyway considering the moonboot is all velcro and the insert is washable do you
    think a person would be allowed to wear one in a pool. Not swimming, just cooling off after a hot day as long as they
    didn’t have to WB to get in or out of it. I am thinking in a few weeks when i start doing the leg raising exercises.
    Has anyone ever looked into this ?

    
    
59. on 20 Mar 2015 at 5:54 pm59 Triz

    I had a Lateral Ankle Ligament Repair (Brostrom Procedure) on Feb 27th 2015.

    The first two weeks after surgery I was NWB, last week I had the acrylic cast removed same as the stitches.
    I’m now on the aircast boot and I use it during the day and at night I have to use the acrylic boot I had after the surgery is less heavy than the aircast boot and that’s also what my Dr. recommended and I’m still NWB.

    I only take the boot off if I’m at rest not moving and to let my foot breath since my skin got super dry for having the cast on for the first two weeks after surgery and of course I take it off when I shower.
    Next week I have my first PT to start putting some weight and also my Dr. told me I need to use the acrylic boot to sleep for 4 more weeks, so It would be a total of 6 weeks using a cast to sleep.

    I hope start putting weight on my foot it won’t be too painful but my Dr told me at least three months recovery time and it has only been three weeks

    
    
60. on 21 Mar 2015 at 12:26 pm60 Trina

    I am am post op for a internal fixation fractured distal fibula,i have 6 screws and a plate. My surgery was the 6th of March 2015, post op was 18th of march ..staples out boot on. Can i take off boot while Sitting still with it propped up. How long before i can really move it, i can move it a little just worried about being able to walk and drive. I sit and do ROM every chance i get ..is that too much…worried

    
    
61. on 22 Mar 2015 at 12:34 pm61 donna

    TRINA…. I didn’t want to ignore your post because validation is sometimes really helpful, and on the other hand I don’t know enough about your injury and procedure to really know how to support you in answering your questions. I’d suggest calling your doctor to ask…we sometimes forget that we are paying them and that it’s reasonable to have questions and expect answers. All my best to you!

    
    
62. on 11 Apr 2015 at 6:58 pm62 Rose

    Great site. I am 5 weeks post op from Achilles surgery. I was nwb for 4 weeks in a cast, I am supposed to sleep in the boot and wear it whenever I am not just sitting around. It drives me crazy at night, but reading the comments has me thinking that it would suck to do something that would cause a set back! 2 more weeks, I can make it.

    
    
63. on 14 Apr 2015 at 12:46 pm63 Cathy

    I broke my third metatarsal bone in my foot on March 7th. Did not think it was broken so just iced, soaked and ace bandage for 2 weeks. Walked on it the whole time but did stay off of it a lot. Finally went and got aSn X-ray and doctor said boot for a month. One week later I went to a orthapedic doctor and he said 6 more weeks but no surgery. Long story short have been in a wheelchair and not walking since first found out it was broken. Sleep with the boot on and straps loosened for fear of hurting it. It is no longer swollen and no pain now. I think not walking at all is what has made it start healing quicker. This is the hardest thing for me because I am super active and want it to be over. 23 more days until I go back……

    
    
64. on 14 Apr 2015 at 1:33 pm64 donna

    Cathy…thanks for sharing…here’s hoping for a speedy recovery for you!

    
    
65. on 14 Apr 2015 at 1:34 pm65 donna

    Rose…YES, you’ve got this…good attitude…don’t take unnecessary risks! I echo that!

    
    
66. on 19 Apr 2015 at 4:57 am66 Joway

    Hi, I’m new here!!! All the comments above are really helpful thanks guys!!!!

    It’s been 5 weeks (i’m on my 6th weeks) since i put the boot on and walk with crutches!!! Do you guys think it’s okay if i take the boot off and try to walk on it?

    
    
67. on 19 Apr 2015 at 11:38 am67 donna

    Joway…without knowing anything about your injury or treatment I would suggest following your doctors protocols. While many are in two shoes at 6 weeks it is the earliest I’ve ever seen in a protocol and they are under the care of a doctor who has treated them since day one in a way such that they are ready for two shoes that early.

    Most re-ruptures occur between 6 - 12 weeks, so even in two shoes, one must be careful for many more weeks. At the very least you could start FWB in the boot but only as tolerated without crutches since you are still FWB with assistance now…talk to your doc. about it.

    
    
68. on 29 Apr 2015 at 10:36 am68 kristen

    Hello all. I am new to this and have read through many of the comments.

    I broke my 5th metatarsal in January of this year. Tried letting it heal on its own in a walking boot for 11 weeks. That didn’t work so I had surgery to fix my Jones fracture on April 2nd. I was in a splint for 4 days then they put a cast on for two weeks. I got the stitches out on 4/17 and another cast for two more weeks.

    As long as the x-rays show that my foot is doing what it is supposed to be doing I will get a walking boot tomorrow. My question is has anyone put bandages or padded the incision sight so it doesn’t rub against the boot? Did you still use crutches even with the walking boot?

    Thank you all in advance.

    
    
69. on 29 Apr 2015 at 11:21 am69 donna

    Yes to both kristen. Best of luck to you in your recovery.

    
    
70. on 30 Apr 2015 at 2:05 pm70 Kristen

    Hi Donna,

    I got my walking boot today. They took x-rays and showed me that there is “soft bone”. So my foot is doing what it is supposed to be doing.

    I was told I don’t have to sleep in it. I am still using my crutches since I have been non weight bearing for a month. It is very interesting trying to get used to walking again.

    I will start physical therapy soon and was told to take a half of a pill of my pain meds before going.

    While in my walking boot should I be elevating my foot during the day?

    
    
71. on 30 Apr 2015 at 2:36 pm71 donna

    Elevation is part of RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) and it is to control swelling. So whenever you are swollen. Being swollen is not good for healing so you do want to keep it in control with RICE. How often, for some it is several times a day, for others once or twice usually after the most active part of the day. Elevation best serves if it is done above heart level, so put your foot on a pillow perhaps up on a desk while sitting in a desk chair, or on the bed make a very high set of pillows or on the couch, reclining chairs do not lend themselves to above the heart elevation so usually don’t work, apply ice (use a ice pack if not use frozen peas or put ice in a baggie) you may or may not wear a compression sock and well then just…rest…hence RICE. If you are not swelling then you wouldn’t need RICE. Hope that helps. I no longer RICE though I did for 6 months, healing from a ATR.

    
    
72. on 30 Apr 2015 at 2:43 pm72 donna

    Also Kristen, you can ice and elevate for 15 to 20 minutes per hour. I’m sure you know you should never put ice directly on the skin. I used to put my ice pack in a pillow case and then apply directly to the ankle while wearing a compression sock and elevating above the heart. I did this a few times a day when it was most swollen. I never had severe swelling, hopefully you don’t either. If you do, you can also control it by wearing compression sock inside your boot. Even when not icing I did still elevated when I slept and when I was just watching TV, reading, or hanging out at my desk…so it was quite often which is maybe why I never had severe swelling.

    
    
73. on 01 May 2015 at 9:58 pm73 donna

    Annie…you said: ” I wish you all the best and hope you all heal well and get back to normal.”

    …and you also!

    I was glad to get out of the cast and into the boot, everyone here is…right now the boot may be heavy for you Annie but at least you can take it off if you need to itch or as you heal to give the ankle some “air” time or to ice and elevate it if you have swelling. In the cast you will be trapped as there is no taking it off unless it’s cut off….just something to consider. Also in the boot after your NWB period (non-weigh bearing) you can use it to walk in and be mobile while still being able to immobilize the ankle as it further heals. I’m not sure of your protocols since most of us have ATR and not ankle surgery.

    Again, all my best to you.

    
    
74. on 05 May 2015 at 10:48 pm74 Hope

    Have a Jones fracture surgery on May 12th got boot today and was wondering about sleeping with it on. Forgot to ask and too late to call. Can do that tomorrow. Anyway was happt to find this forum. Hope everyone here heals well. Not looking forward to any of this,and crutches do suck!

    
    
75. on 05 May 2015 at 11:32 pm75 glenskieus

    Hi I am not really familiar with jones fracture surgery . But as with achilles injury. I was sleeping with my boot week 2 to week 4 post op..some are using night splint..

    
    
76. on 07 May 2015 at 10:39 am76 Raul

    Hello!

    Very informative all your comments. I broke my fifth metatarsal last week. I was in a fiber cast for a week until the doctors changes it for a boot. I can actually move so much better that with crutches and was told to slowly put weight on foot. Apparently I will be walking in about 5-6 weeks with no boot. My question is: what are the consequences of sleeping without the boot? Foot is tender. Doctors said that if I am handle, I can sleep without the boot. It’s all about how comfortable I am. Any commentary would be welcome.

    Thanks!

    
    
77. on 07 May 2015 at 11:17 am77 Kristen

    Hi Hope,

    I am post Jones Fracture surgery (left 5th metatarsal) about a month. You do not have to sleep in your walking boot. I am sure you got your answer already, but wanted to let you know.

    My surgery was April 2nd and I was in a temporary cast for four days. I went back on the 6th and they put a permanent cast on for two weeks. Went back on the 17th got the stitches removed and another cast. Went back on the 30th and got that cast removed and a new walking boot. I just start physical therapy this week. I was non weight bearing for a month so do expect that. I now have a 2″ screw in my foot.

    If you can get what I like to call a wheelie. It is actually a knee scooter and gives you more stability than crutches do.

    Good luck on your surgery and recovery.

    
    
78. on 07 May 2015 at 7:39 pm78 Julie

    Hi all
    I fractured 5th MT on right foot on Monday morning. Then on Monday evening broke my middle toe on left foot. Went fracture clinic Tuesday n given moon boot for MT and toes on other foot strapped. I’m obviously having to WB as both feet are painful. Using crutches too. Could I sleep without moon boot? My foot is so hot!
    Thanks

    
    
79. on 08 May 2015 at 6:01 pm79 Kristen

    Hi Julie,

    Yes you can sleep without the moon boot if you want to. I am assuming it is the same as a walking boot. I was told by my doc that I can.

    I would keep the right foot elevated to keep swelling down.

    
    
80. on 13 May 2015 at 2:45 am80 Coach fletch

    Ok, I had my Achilles surgery two weeks ago today. I had a splint for a week after surgery that was killing me because my leg shrunk and the splint no longer fit well. Then my doctor gave me a boot a couple days ago.
    I am really struggling with sleeping in this thing. It weighs a ton. It hurts on the wide part of my foot like it is going to squeeze it off even when I loosen the boot. It hurts also hurts the outside of the foot just below the small toe.
    I cannot sleep. It is driving me crazy.
    Doc told me I can take showers without it it otherwise it should be immobilized. He told me I could sleep w/o it but he did not like it.
    I have been up and down all night tonight taking boot off, putting it on. Trying to adjust it. Use pads that came with it. It fits my foot but I just keep thinking there has to be some way of adjusting it.
    I have sat in a chair to get some relief. Feels better for a while but even then gets uncomfortable. Not worried about moving around but I have had some twitches. Frustrated and a bit nervous but no sleep is going to drive me nuts.
    Thoughts?

    
    
81. on 13 May 2015 at 7:53 am81 LindaF

    Coach Fletch:

    Two thoughts- see if there is another type boot. I ended up getting a different boot, as the initial boot was irritating my incision based on its structure. Also during the first two months, I took a prescription sleep aid so I could get some sleep. My GP prescribed it. Good luck with your healing- it does get better as you progress, so hang in there.

    
    
82. on 04 Jun 2015 at 1:50 pm82 Chrissi

    Ruptured AT 5 May, did not get to hospital til 2 weeks later as incredibly no pain, just discomfort. Plastered for 2 weeks, just gone into ROM boot for I guess about 6 weeks. This blog so useful as little guidelines from hospital about boot removal and very nervous about taking off at night, like many others. Instead have been loosening top two and bottom straps and easing apart padding round calf which is quite bearable. Just took boot off first time and foot and ankle bit swollen so back to RICE.. Crutches such hard work so have borrowed an relative’s no longer used walking frame which has wheels, brakes and even a place to sit or store essentials. It has transformed my life but I suspect they are not cheap. Just realised that my sore knuckles are from easing apart the padding, the Velcro scratching - any ideas, gloves perhaps? Speedy recoveries to you all….

    
    
83. on 09 Jun 2015 at 11:37 pm83 Shann

    Hi there going on four weeks with my broken foot on my fifth mt well didn’t expect this at all but still trying to keep my sanity the doc told me strictly to not walk on it we promised each other that I had the the plaster cast on and ten days into I went back put a air cast on doctor said its your foot..then was told I could sleep with the air cast off at night Or any time im not mobile and exercise I found the swelling went down a lot faster for me And found it a lot itchy I find spasm here and there Not painful I go for my follow up in a week I am nervous but to tell the truth with the cast that coverd me the one I didn’t have to pay for it did cut circulation off my foot it turned purple but did stop me from moving but I prey results are good and wish everyone else the best

    
    
84. on 18 Jun 2015 at 1:04 pm84 Leroy

    Hi all.

    I fractured my 1st and 2nd metatarsal. It’s been 3 long weeks of NWB. First week in a cast and from then onwards in boot. Also still sleeping with the boot on although I have started putting some weight on my ankle when getting dressed without any discomfort. Also very active and so frustrated with myself right now. Been doing a lot of reading and some websites mentions 4-6 weeks recovery and others 6-8 weeks. I know it takes longer the older you are. I’m 34 and really have my hopes set that I can start putting more weight on my foot from next week onwards… Slowly but surely getting back to walking.

    
    
85. on 22 Jun 2015 at 5:22 am85 Scarlett

    Correction: in my pre iOS comment, # 5 should have read “back to dr on 10/28/12………..”

    
    
86. on 22 Jun 2015 at 5:25 am86 Scarlett

    Please forgive typos - it’s 4:00 in the morning! (Gasp!). Proof that I can’t sleep.

    
    
87. on 28 Jun 2015 at 10:58 pm87 Dawn

    Hi everyone.

    I found this website/blog very helpful (thank you). I recently broke my right ankle, a trimalleolar fracture, I had surgery, a plate and 6 screws. After 3 weeks post surgery the Dr. put me in a boot. A big, heavy boot. I’m still NWB but I don’t understand this boot. It seems to be weighing my ankle down and I don’t feel like I have enough support. Does anyone what have experience with this? I’m very nervous that I won’t heal right. Also, my knee is really starting to hurt do to the boot, any suggestions???? Thank you do much!

    
    
88. on 03 Jul 2015 at 8:01 am88 Sarah

    Hi
    I broke my left fibula and tibia in May and been in a full leg plaster cast for past 6 weeks. Due to pressure sore on my heel and on top of my foot they removed the full leg cast yesterday. the doctor wanted to put me in a lower leg plaster cast but i refused due to the pain from the sores. they agreed i could have an aircast. i had to encourage my foot flat enough to get the cast on and have slept in all night, having deflated, unstrapped and removed the top plate. i have woken with immense muscle pain in my calf. i am hoping this is due to my foot being manipulated flat to fit the boot. i have been told i can take the boot off to bath but i am terrified to take it off? need some reassurance I guess. I have read all your posts and wish you all a speedy and full recovery from your injuries.

    
    
89. on 03 Jul 2015 at 8:41 am89 bobfv

    Sarah - when I was non-weight bearing in a boot after Achilles surgery, I bought a shower chair and put it in the shower. I would sit on the chair, remove the boot, when shower while seated with no weight on my foot, then dry off while seated and put the boot back on. I hope this helps

    
    
90. on 11 Jul 2015 at 3:30 am90 Chrissi

    Still in my ROM ( range of motion/ movement) boot but it has been adjusted three times now so I am nearly walking with my foot flat. Dawn, I too found that my knee was starting to hurt, this was after the first adjustment and it was because my body is out of kilter wearing such a heavy boot. I try to take things slowly and put my foot up with boot off (RICE again) whenever not walking. I was initially very nervous about taking boot off and am still sleeping with it on, albeit loosened, as this was advised by hospital consultant.

    
    
91. on 18 Jul 2015 at 12:44 am91 poodledink

    fractured my ankle June 6th. Was in a cast for a week and1/2 before surgery. Plate and screws. Cast again for a week and then a Velcro walking boot but not allowed to WB till Dr. sees me July 29th. He did say I could take it off 2 weeks after surgery and start rotation exercises. Very hard to do, the ankle and foot is so stiff! I get around on crutches and use a wheel chair to do carrying and household chores. I forgot to ask if and when I can leave boot off at night. After reading through many comments it comes to my attention that the Ortho Doctors aren’t very informative about the can/can’t and do’s/don’ts of their ankle fracture patients! Why are we forced to have sites where we ask each other questions instead of the expert giving us their expert advice ? after all isn’t that what we are paying them for? Although it is somehow comforting to read that others are going through the same thing and what their experience is.

    
    
92. on 21 Jul 2015 at 11:01 am92 mtbchick

    poodledink:

    I fractured my ankle/lower tibia and have a plate and screws as well. I started doing ROM exercises at week 4, and felt it was ok to sleep without the boot at about 4.5 weeks. My ankle and parts of my foot are really stiff too, but doing the ROM exercises daily really does help with the flexibility, and the foot/ankle will become less stiff. I use a pillow under the injured leg to sleep on my side, etc. I don’t think it is harming the injured leg. I actually think leaving the boot off at night helps with ROM.

    I should be WB with boot July 27 (when I see the Dr.). Instead of getting a riser (even-up) for the non-injured shoe, what are some good shoe options to balance with the boot?

    
    
93. on 22 Jul 2015 at 2:59 pm93 Chrissi

    I have found the Fit Flop range comfortable for uninjured leg as most of the range are raised which balances the booted leg well. There are closed in styles not just sandals. Perhaps not the prettiest of shoes but soo comfie to wear.

    
    
94. on 22 Jul 2015 at 5:50 pm94 Leanne

    Hi All…I broke my 2nd,3rd & 4th metertarsals 10 days ago…I was initially put in a cast and then it was taken off on doctor’s orders at the fracture clinic the next day! I was given a shoe with a raised toe to wear and basically sent on my way…no advice on when to wear it and when not…no follow up appointment offered…nothing!! I can’t see how the shoe does anything at this stage as it’s not done up tight enough for any support benefit as the foot is still too tender and I can’t yet put any weight on the foot either!! I’ve basically given up using it unless on the rare occasion I leave my house! I don’t sleep in it at night. Any advice would be greatly appreciated as I do worry about my foot at night but I do feel more comfortable without it on

    
    
95. on 25 Jul 2015 at 11:48 pm95 Wanda

    Eighteen days ago, I had ankle tendon repair for three tendons, four bone spurs removed, bone fragments removed and bone smoothed down, and a bone from a break in 1975 removed.

    I have been in a splint-cast until yesterday and put in an air-boot to the knee. I would told to adhere to previous post-op instructions:

    ( 0% weight bearing, 45% elevation 90% of every day, no tub/shower, must sleep in air-boot, use knee scooter, crutches and wheel chair but STAY OFF OF THE RECOVERING FOOT! until I return in three weeks. )

    This is so hard for a “mover and shaker” like me, it is depressing and lonely. I’ve been a hairdresser for 41 years and this is already the longest a “CLOSED” sign has been on my business.

    When the boot was first applied yesterday, I thought that it was wonderful but before midnight, I was in agony. I have now cut off the seam causing pressure point pain under my toes, which had made a terrific difference. I just ordered the same boot but a shorter version from Amazon because the long one will not allow me to ride my scooter and it hurts my upper leg from the air tubes pressing in it.

    I know what the doctor said but is there anyone who could tell me if I would be safe sleeping in the liner of the boot, propped up on my traction pillow? P.L.E.A.S.E.?????

    
    
96. on 27 Jul 2015 at 3:45 pm96 Shawnee

    Hi, 2 & 1/2 weeks ago, I broke my 5 metatarsal. I originally thought it was sprained & followed a friends advice to wrap it, elevate & ice for a few days. After roughly a week, I was managing well, with an ace bandage & a knee walker. The swelling was down, pain reduced significantly, but I still couldn’t put weight on it, so I went in for an x-ray & it’s broke.

    The next day I saw the Podiatrist. He casted me up to the knee & sent me home without any instructions, other than see you in 6 weeks. The cast was so loose, every time I moved the weight would crash down & send shooting pains up my leg. After the 3rd day, I couldn’t take it anymore. I went to urgent care & the Dr agreed to cut the cast off. He said it was actually a disservice. My broken foot was floating around in a led weight.

    I made an appointment with another Dr who put me in a short boot, sent me home with instructions to ice, elevate & after the 3rd day, add warm compresses’. It’s scary how different Dr’s in the same field, can have such different methods. I am in far more pain after days of taking my foot in & out of the boot. Also, I wake up pushing against the boot trying to stretch I think, but I didn’t do that with the cast. I think that is what caused the added pain. Or, after taking Dr’s advise & removing foot in & out to ice, I’m doing worse than I did 4 days after the Fracture. I wake up with my toes black & purple, from the swelling. After icing & elevating, I’m slightly better, but can’t stand the throbbing of any activity. I constantly have to lay or sit, with foot elevated. I didn’t have to do that days after the fracture, before the cast & before this heavy boot.

    Any suggestions from anyone, would be greatly appreciated.

    
    
97. on 27 Jul 2015 at 3:56 pm97 Shawnee

    Hi, 2 & 1/2 weeks ago, I broke my 5 metatarsal. I originally thought it was sprained & followed a friends advice to wrap it, elevate & ice for a few days. After roughly a week, I was managing well, with an ace bandage & a knee walker. The swelling was down, pain reduced significantly, but I still couldn’t put weight on it, so I went in for an x-ray & it’s broke.

    The next day I saw the Podiatrist. He casted me up to the knee & sent me home without any instructions, other than see you in 6 weeks. The cast was so loose, every time I moved the weight would crash down & send shooting pains up my leg. After the 3rd day, I couldn’t take it anymore. I went to urgent care & the Dr agreed to cut the cast off. He said it was actually a disservice. My broken foot was floating around in a led weight.

    Now I’m in a boot. Dr said I can remove to ice which feels great accept I think by removing in and out, is causing more bad than good. I’m hurting more now than days after Fracture. I wake up in the night fighting the boot to stretch & in the morning toes are purplish black from the swelling.

    Any suggestions from anyone, would be greatly appreciated. Thank you & I hope all of you heal quickly.

    
    
98. on 06 Aug 2015 at 7:59 pm98 Ryan

    A just want to say this a a great post and a have took on board a few comments

    Well a have broke my fuber just above my ankle been in a cast for 6 weeks , went back today to get the cast of and they said its sitting in the correct position but still healing and put me in a walking cast, a cant sleep with the boot so a have took it apon myself to wear a ankle surport that you can get for sports and a just wear that to bed dont no if it will make it worse ? In 2 minds to put the boot back on for nights

    
    
99. on 10 Aug 2015 at 9:11 pm99 Brandy

    I have just been given the boot after a fall 2 weeks ago. They didn’t catch the fracture on my first visit so I went back because my foot just want healing right. Come to find out I have a fracture on my talus and tibia. They gave me the boot but it is starting to hurt area of my foot that weren’t hurting before. I was told that the bone starts healing immediately and I don’t want it to heal incorrectly but it’s killing me. I don’t see the orthopedic doctor for another couple of days and I don’t want to injure it further. Any advice? Wear it, don’t wear it, wrap it instead. I will tolerate the pain if that’s what is necessary but I just don’t know.

    
    
100. on 10 Aug 2015 at 9:52 pm100 donna

     Brandy you said: “Any advice? Wear it, don’t wear it, wrap it instead.”

     I think your best bet is to see a medical professional and let them tell you what to do. Even if you don’t have an appointment for a few days, it is not unreasonable to call the orthopedic doctor asap and tell them the problem & ask them how you should proceed.

     All my best to you.

     
     
101. on 13 Aug 2015 at 12:38 pm101 Chrissi

     I am now being weaned off my ROM (also known as pincam) boot when indoors. Ruptured my Achilles tendon 13 weeks ago. If you are wearing one of these boots, I recommend you wear a sock as I went barefoot in the boot during hot weather and then got nasty little blisters which did not help at all when walking. A natural fibre like cotton or bamboo socks and pay attention to your poor foot, keep it clean and dry, baby powder good. Also a nice, smelly foot cream gently massaged in if you are able is very therapeutic. I managed to sponge clean my boot’s innards and then sun-dried them when we had that hot spell. Tonight I plan to sleep without my boot for the first time as both my consultant and physio have reassured me that this will be ok. Keep positive.

     
     
102. on 19 Aug 2015 at 3:05 am102 Dee barry

     I have just gone into a boot . Do I wear a sock all the time in the boot.

     
     
103. on 20 Aug 2015 at 1:57 pm103 ThomasHH

     Hi everyone,

     New here, broke my 4th and 5th Metatarsals a couple of Friday’s ago. Didn’t realise I did until I realised it wasn’t getting any better, and went for an x-ray the following Wednesday.

     I was told I had broken my 4th and 5th metatarsals.

     I was put in a plaster cast and told to come back in a week to get a boot fitted. This was today. Foot feels great with it on, but I forgot to ask if OK to wear to bed. I’m going to try and keep it on tonight, but will loosen the straps. Will let you know how I get on tomorrow.

     T

     
     
104. on 22 Aug 2015 at 12:02 am104 crazy ladi

     Broke my ankle at work July 8 2015 had surgery in August. I have a plate and about 5screws in left ankle. After surgery stayed in boot about 2 weeks never slept in it and began putting weight on it after a week. I pray to God I haven’t messed up anything. I hate not being able to walk and misread my paperwork. I am so scared I’m about to put this dang boot back on for another month. Please someone tell me I will be ok.. Please cause the thought of having to start all over again will kill me.

     
     
105. on 24 Aug 2015 at 2:05 pm105 madeleine

     Hello everyone,
     I’m new, I too broke my 4th and 5th Metatarsals on 8/15/2015. I was mountain biking and couldn’t make up a hill, slid down and landed on my foot. I rolled it instantly I could feel the nausea and dizziness associated with a break. My boyfriend, who was a combat nurse insisted that it was a bad sprain and had me on RICE for the entire weekend. On Monday I returned to work, walking on a bandaged foot. By mid day the pain was unbearable. Later that afternoon I drove myself to urgent care and low and behold the foot was fractured in three places! I burst into tears!

     The thought of having to go through the healing process of yet another broken bone (I broke my arm in Jan 2015) scared the hell out of me. I could not explain the rush of emotion. The immobilization, the frustration of not be being able to do the most simplest tasks and of course the depression. I was overcome with sadness. It took almost 6 moths of rest and therapy for the arm to heal. All I could think of was my poor boyfriend, yet again, having to nurse this old woman back to health, ugh!

     After visiting the orthopedic last week he confirmed it was a Jones fracture, I didn’t ask him if it was true JF, but I guess at this point that does not matter, it’s a fracture nonetheless. I was getting tired of the crutches so he wrote me a prescription for a scooter (it saved my sanity!), a handicap parking decal and told me I could drive with my other foot, did not have to wear the boot to sleep, if I didn’t want to and to take it off to shower. Otherwise, no need to wear it when I was home. I was thrilled, since the boot is hotter than hell and pumping up with ankle support only makes the foot swell, which puts you back in the vicious cycle of RICE.

     I am very active and impatient person, I cannot sit still. I do laundry, sweep, do dishes, cook, clean the kitty litter box, etc, all on the heel of my boot, is that bad at this stage of the healing process? I don’t want to make it worse, but I will literally go mad if I have to sit in one place for a long period of time.

     Just for the record I am taking care of myself in other ways, eating right, lots of water, taking supplements (calcium, vit K and D, extra protein) exercising my legs (yes, I go to the gym and do lower body work out, machines only, none that require to use my foot) foot flexs in the AM and while during lunch at work (200 a day). Am I over doing it?

     
     
106. on 27 Aug 2015 at 12:18 pm106 Pam

     Hi all. Looking for a little advice. 1st a little history. I broke my nirvicula bone on my right foot. It must have been so small that X-rays did not show it. Doc had me go to therapy for 5 weeks. By then I could not even tie my shoe. MRI on March 5 showed it was broken & needed to be screwed in place. This was March 9th. 2 weeks in soft cast ( non weight bearing ) then 4 weeks in a hard cast. Then 5 weeks in a walking boot. I could sleep without it. However part of the bone did not heal. So back into surgery for a bone graft and we start all over again. I am now into my second week with the walking boot. I can only take a few steps to the shower without the boot on. And I’m handling that very well.
     Here’s my question: my husband & son say to quit walking in it so much. I thought the reason behind a walking boot was to walk. How much is too much. I also thought that walking made the blood flow better which caused the healing faster. By the way. Last X-rays showed the bone still not healed. What do I do. Walk or sit around exercising the foot. ?

     
     
107. on 27 Aug 2015 at 5:36 pm107 cpo

     @pam, I’d ask your doc or a PT first, of course, but I was told by my PT that walking great distances (~2miles) in a walking boot would likely lead to other injuries due to compensation from the boot…e.g. back issues, hip issues. I certainly did a lot of standing in it, though. Anyway, I think the boot’s main purpose for most injuries is immobilization/protection. Bear in mind I’m recovering from an ATR, so different story, but that’s my .02.

     Good luck!

     
     
108. on 27 Aug 2015 at 6:56 pm108 Pam

     Cpo
     Thanks for the advice. I’m going to start PT next week + more X-rays. I’ll take your advice and have a question & answer period with my doctor. My hip is already giving me fits. Believe me I have not been doing all that much walking, just around the house. No marathons here.

     
     
109. on 03 Sep 2015 at 10:36 pm109 Kerry

     Hello all,
     I am 10 weeks post (1st surg) broken/compound fracture right tib and fib. Had 2nd surg on ankle 3 wks later. Still have open wounds. I have air cast xp walker boot, it’s bulky. I am supposed to wear it always except sleep/shower/exercises. I opt not to wear at night yet,but might. I’ve only had it 2 days and have worn it 20-24 hrs thus far It’s amazing when I do wear it,just all this torsion at 1 time is overwhelming to me,it rubs surgical wound presently. The dorsal flex you get from boot has done more for me than the towel stretches did in 3 wks. Ok to my point , anyone just sorta worn it part time and been ok ?.? Or should I ignore wound and wear anyway?

     
     
110. on 09 Sep 2015 at 9:22 am110 Marie 27

     Hi All,

     Mother of two boys under age 5. So lucky me playing sport I fractured the left lateral malleolus on my left ankle unfortunately the fracture dislocated and my ligaments were torn. Doc ordered surgery 21/8/15 on the ankle with a plate and pins. Yesterday I got the half slab removed and now in moon boot with crutches. It was overwhelming at first seeing the scar of my surgery and how skinny and frail my leg looked. Second night with the moon boot and reading from above posts I’m keeping my moon boot on, ankle feels extremely vunerable without it. The recovery is mentally challenging, it is also an eye opener to how much support you have and who cares enough. Staying positive eating healthy and appreciating those who help you through recovery each day is reason to be thankful. Slow and steady wins the race I say. I’m almost one month into being dependent on others. The hardest thing is being a parent who can’t be as hands on. Don’t be afraid to let others help you will be glad they did once you are back to full recovery! Sleeping with moon boot on and an apple a day keeps the doc away wishing all that are in my boat a positive speedy recovery!!

     
     
111. on 22 Sep 2015 at 11:58 am111 kaylee

     Hi guys, firstly I have no clue what the boot is. I broke my ankle in 3 places July the 4 and didn’t get my ankle fixed with plates and screws until September. I elevate my foot on pillows but its no use. My ankle still hurts n feels sore. I am the type of individual who toss n turn while sleeping. My foot was in a cast before but after surgery its just bandaged. My heel burns and hurts. Is this normal? I am fed up n really need to start walking as I need to return to work. I use my crutch which is very tiring. Wish I had a wheel chair but can’t afford- sigh.

     
     
112. on 08 Oct 2015 at 9:54 am112 ana

     Madeline you poor darl. I understand the isolation and difficulty if the situation. I hope it heals as planned and you continue to live your active life x and naughty boyfriend bet he felt bad when it was conformed as a break…

     I broke my 5th metatarsal 7 weeks ago. Was in cast with no WB for 6 weeks and honestly it was hard! I’m a mum of 7 kids and one is disabled so depression for the first week was an understatement. I felt so useless. I then got an office chair and because our lower level is tiles i used it to do nearly everything eg cook minimal cleaning pack lunches. Was so hard but the little big of freedom made it bearable.

     Now in a aircast one week on. See Orth surgeon in two weeks hoping to walk in shoes then. One of the hardest thing i have been through and has truly given me a deeper appreciation of how blessed i am to walk!!

     Happy healing all x

     
     
113. on 14 Oct 2015 at 2:09 am113 kay M

     I had an ankle ligament reconstruction, 2 weeks in a cast and now 2 weeks in a boot - aircast. Its so heavy but i sleep with it on. Im worried taking it off when i sleep might just delay healing time. I have started putting some weight on it but this is a long road.

     
     
114. on 24 Oct 2015 at 12:40 am114 CRIXUS

     I broke my fibula and tibia on the side and back, on September 14th. I was in an E.R. Splint for 3 days until my ORIF surgery on the 17th, where I received a plate, 9 screws and 40 staples. I was then put in another splint for about 5 days and then got a hard cast for 2 weeks. After that, I was put in a moon boot or a walking boot, yet still can’t bear weight. I also also stated physical therapy. I am now 3 weeks into physical therapy and boot life and have 10 days until my next doctor appointment, where I am hoping I will be cleared to start walking.

     I remain boot free all day unless I am sleeping or out and about. I do my exercises most of the day. I have most of my ROM back and no pain, just a bit of stiffness and swelling.

     I am currently laying in bed contemplating removing the boot to go to bed. I think the big concern for injuries like mine is getting your foot snagged in a blanket and twisting the ankle. But I have been reassured by 4 different doctors and 2 physical therapists, that at this point the bones won’t be doing any moving, especially with the plate.

     I love to hear other people’s journeys and help as much as I can, if anyone would like to, you can email me at

     axmcc22@gmail.com

     Axmcc22 at Gmail.

     Thanks!

     
     
115. on 02 Nov 2015 at 7:34 pm115 Kc

     Hi there, glad I stumbled onto this website as I have a few questions I’m curious about which haven’t been asked yet.

     I am 5 weeks post op from tendon damage in the foot- half cast for two weeks moon boot for four (currently on my third week) and still on crutches. My hips are now out of line due to the boot being more raised when I stand normally. Has this happened to anyone else? Can it be fixed? Also should I be walking by now without crutches? I am concerned I still cannot walk properly.

     Thanks!

     
     
116. on 03 Nov 2015 at 6:51 am116 beanie

     Hi Kc,

     There is an excellent product called EvenUp which is like a platform that you can strap on to any shoe. It’s not very expensive. Look for it online and get one. This will help you to even out your hips and stop causing your alignment problems. Before I found evenups, I duct taped on of my flip-flops to the bottom of my trainer in order to get both feet level. You may also want to go to a Physio to help release the tight muscles you already have from being uneven for so long.

     Good luck and happy healing!

     
     
117. on 20 Nov 2015 at 10:37 pm117 Abbie

     Hi guys,
     I had lateral ligament reconstruction and ankle debribement 14 days ago to which I was in a half cast for two weeks and today I was put in an air boot. Not enjoying it I must say. First night of sleeping in it and I found the back of my foot extremely sore (not where the wound was), could this be due to keeping the boot being on? I’m reluctant to take it off in case of snapping the ligament again. Any suggestions? Thanks

     
     
118. on 03 Dec 2015 at 1:31 am118 Alexis

     Hi everyone I’m going on an 6 week heeling process with a very bad ankle bone contusion. It’s from getting hit by a car. My ankle is slowly getting better. I do wear a boot. But last 2 days since I’ve been off my foot because of I’m on it to much it hurts. Sadly the ankle pain is less but knee pain is more. I found my old knee brace and might sleep with it. Any advice

     
     
119. on 03 Dec 2015 at 3:54 pm119 Stuart

     Alexis - maybe and even up for the other shoe to get both your legs at the same height. This will make walking easier. Some people complain of pain in the hip as well.

     
     
120. on 14 Dec 2015 at 1:08 am120 Andy

     Hi all fell from ladder breaking the calcaneous (heel) bone and had to wait 3weeks for surgery finally was given plate and screws to fix and was told non weight bearing for 10 to 12 weeks. Tried crutches but could not get confidence to use them in case of another fall. I rented 2 wheelchairs 1 for car and 1 for house so much easier to get around. Had stitches out at 14 days post op and have been given boot to wear. I have only worn it to bed once and find as long as your foot not under the covers it is fine and you can sleep quite well. Foot and ankle still swelling up and down but have been assured by the surgeon and Physio that this is normal. Swelling can take 6 months to clear. I have been exercising my leg in bed as often as I can to strengthen leg ready for some type of walking. I am a very active person and will probably try to hard to quick. I walked around the house yesterday on the boot unaided by anything it was a little bit uncomfortable but geez it was worth it after being in a wheelchair for the last 7 weeks. Today I drove to the supermarket and walked very slowly in the boot and I was pretty much pain free but am not going to do to much. It is just a psychological hurdle that you need to overcome that you can get back to walking. I am only 4 weeks post op today and even know the docs are very cautious we are all individual and if you feel like your foot is getting strength try things you may find you can do it. My Physio says that I am not really weight bearing as the boot takes 90 percent of your body weight. It does get easier but don’t do to much a little each day to give you confidence. I found that as long as the wound is completely healed it gets easier. Try standing and balancing in the boot first and when you want to try your first lot of walking steps hold on to something to balance like kitchen bench top and walk around it holding on to give you confidence. I say to all you other people with similar ankle and foot injuries hang in there it does get very depressing and frustration builds but as you can see what I posted above there is light at the end of the tunnel enjoy Xmas to all of you and keep safe. New year is coming

     
     
121. on 15 Dec 2015 at 3:30 am121 Andyw

     Hey Andy! That is a great story to share, so thank you. It’s really inspiring to me to read about what people like you have gone through and how you’ve come back from something like this. Happy and speedy recovery!

     
     
122. on 05 Jan 2016 at 11:04 am122 beverley

     Hi I have been reading everyones stories and recoveries and this is my story. In September 2016, i was in the back of a 8 seater van in carpark.. A ball was in front of door way and not using my head, I kicked the ball backwards and trying to open the door at same time when my foot slipped and I ended up outside on concrete in car park. My right ankle blew up like a balloon and waited till next day to go to hospital. The xray showed soft tissue, weeks later ,ultrusound showed soft tissue still unable to walk on foot, I then got sent to a specialist and had another scan showed a crack and send off to emergency in plaster for 5 days ,back to specialist ,he says no surgery starting to heal and off to abone scan and yes definately a crack and may need a pin .
     I then sent to trauma clinic, and told a moon boot for 8 weeks for rest ,it is like 4 months since accident but 4 weeks since moonboot , a happy christmas and new year 2016 not and birthday in jan not happy bev. I have tried various times to keep the boot on in bed but I have (rls)Restless Legs Syndrome and this is hard with a heavy boot on. Even medication to knock me out is not working and so up and down with my sleeping. I take boot off now and then but still resting it. I have a daughter and grandson who has given me support and on going love and also, as I live independantly . I have ongoing leg cramps , anteflammoratry tabs have helped but sitting in a chair or in bed doesnt help. 4 weeks left and I do not want apin in my foot, no operation so really hope it is healed by then.

     
     
123. on 05 Jan 2016 at 11:05 am123 beverley

     Hi I have been reading everyones stories and recoveries and this is my story. In September 2015 i was in the back of a 8 seater van in carpark.. A ball was in front of door way and not using my head, I kicked the ball backwards and trying to open the door at same time when my foot slipped and I ended up outside on concrete in car park. My right ankle blew up like a balloon and waited till next day to go to hospital. The xray showed soft tissue, weeks later ,ultrusound showed soft tissue still unable to walk on foot, I then got sent to a specialist and had another scan showed a crack and send off to emergency in plaster for 5 days ,back to specialist ,he says no surgery starting to heal and off to abone scan and yes definately a crack and may need a pin .
     I then sent to trauma clinic, and told a moon boot for 8 weeks for rest ,it is like 4 months since accident but 4 weeks since moonboot , a happy christmas and new year 2016 not and birthday in jan not happy bev. I have tried various times to keep the boot on in bed but I have (rls)Restless Legs Syndrome and this is hard with a heavy boot on. Even medication to knock me out is not working and so up and down with my sleeping. I take boot off now and then but still resting it. I have a daughter and grandson who has given me support and on going love and also, as I live independantly . I have ongoing leg cramps , anteflammoratry tabs have helped but sitting in a chair or in bed doesnt help. 4 weeks left and I do not want apin in my foot, no operation so really hope it is healed by then.

     
     
124. on 06 Jan 2016 at 1:45 pm124 Manny

     Beverley, Good luck with your recovery. I sleep with the boot on, suing a huge pillow between my legs to keep from hitting my wife when I turn. My bit problem is when I have aches and pain that keep me awake, though things are slowly improving.

     Being a newbie at this, I really have no advice for you. All I can think of is a hand fracture I had thirty years ago, which was mis diagnosed as a sprain, and all the pain I went through until we had XRays made and I got the cast.

     Good luck!……….. Manny

     
     
125. on 06 Jan 2016 at 3:10 pm125 Sefora

     Hi everybody. I fractured the end of my fibula bone at the ankle, was told it was an aversion fracture and literally the end just chipped off as i fell over a pothole. Was initially misdiagnosed as being okay so started weightbearing immediately after my initial hospital visit. Two days later had a cast put on. Told no operation needed.

     After 6 days i was in a boot. But the Dr never did an xray again or actually look at the ankle. Was put into a boot. Was told to start weightbearing after two weeks partial WB! Im in week three and still struggling to partially weight bear let alone fully weightbear.

     Should i be wearing the boot all the time? Even if im in a resting position? Dr said it was okay to take it off, but i have sort of lost all trust in the Drs at the hospital.

     
     
126. on 06 Jan 2016 at 3:12 pm126 Sefora

     From what i have read here, people sleep with their boot on post surgery, but i have had NO operation. How does wearing the boot actually help my ankle fracture?

     Kindest regards and love,
     Sefora

     
     
127. on 06 Jan 2016 at 3:27 pm127 Stuart

     Sofora - you are probably refering to an avulsion fracture which is where a ligament or tendon has pulled a small piece of bone off unless you have simply chipped the bone. These are not serious and weight can be placed on them sooner than a normal bone fracture. Like any fracture it needs to be in place to heal and that is why you wear a boot. More severe avulsion fractures may require casting but we are not health professionals so it is difficult to say. If you are concerned then you should leave the boot at all times. People sleep in their boots with our without surgery. If weight bearing hurts too much then ease up. If things do not improve then you will have to go back to a doctor. Have a look at this site for some more information. Just add the 3w’s in front. sportsinjuryclinic.net/sport-injuries/ankle-achilles-shin-pain/avulsion-fracture

     
     
128. on 08 Jan 2016 at 9:29 pm128 Sefora

     Hi stuart,

     Thank you so much for your comment, it really helped assure me. I also ended up calling the fracture clinic who pretty much said the same thing. Thank you for the link, reading it right now!

     Seffy

     
     
129. on 21 Jan 2016 at 12:06 pm129 Lulu

     Hello everyone,
     I would like to hear how many weeks post a trimalleolor with dislocation anyone was fully weight bearing? I know we all heal differently but whoever made the statement ” surgeons aren’t good at providing guidance throughout the process” was dead-on!
     I fell from a little girl pink bicycle with a basket on Dec 19th in Bora Bora and broke my Tibia, Fibula and talus w/dislocation. Bora Bora is dubbed the last heaven for a reason. It’s magical it’s so beautiful however I thought I might die there from my broken leg. Took 12 hours to make it to Tahitti for my first surgery (closed reduction). Orthopedic doctor was great and spoke English. Then another 19 hours before I made it back to Houston for plate and screws surgery on 12/21. 2 weeks out I experienced no pain and at 1 week I was only taking pain med at night to sleep. I went into Aircast 3 weeks post-op. I’m anxious to start P/T or anything that will help the process towards a full recovery. I’m in shock at how quickly muscles atrophy. I ran 3 miles a day before my accident and also would like to know if anyone uses or used ATB AlterG for rehab? I truly wish everyone a full & speedy recovery as I am all too aware at how life changing this is. BTW-I was on my honeymoon! Tested the “in sickness & health” right out of the box—less than 24 hours after “I do”

     
     
130. on 21 Jan 2016 at 2:39 pm130 beanie

     Lulu, sorry to hear, what a thing to happen on honeymoon! I’m not sure about the weight bearing, but I have read that some people get to use an AlterG for rehab and they all report it to be excellent. At the top right of the main achillesblog.com page there’s a search box you can use to find all mentions of AlterG in the blogs and comments. Good luck and happy healing.

     
     
131. on 21 Jan 2016 at 2:40 pm131 Manny

     Hi, Lulu… sorry your honeymoon got cut short by the fall and fractures. But it does sound as if your orthopedic surgeon is working diligently to get you back to normal. Good luck! My 2 cents worth is that fractures heal quicker than tendons do, so you should not be dismayed by our slow progress. As for hints no how to recover your strength, a number of our tribe are heavy into athletics and Physical Therapy, so do read their blogs.
     Good luck on your journey to health!
     Manny

     
     
132. on 24 Jan 2016 at 12:36 am132 Jason

     I fell from second floor and fractured my foot in a few places, and injured my talus, and had a pin put in for the 4th metatarsal fracture. Wore cast for about 4-1/2 to 5 weeks after surgery, got the boot two days ago, and had the pin removed then too. For the pin, I got local anesthetic. The first shot hurt and by the third shot I didn’t feel the needle prick at all. I watched the doc cut into my foot and tug out the pin. Blood went everywhere; my pillow, the doctor’s face, and I think there were a few spots on the ceiling too. I was told I could put full weight on it and remove the boot for sleeping.

     I hate this boot! It hurts more to wear than to leave off! It keeps me from stretching my injured ankle and stretching it makes it feel less tight and painful. It gives me more pain to wear by rubbing against my leg and throwing off my gait. I’m calling asap to see if I can put this torture device in the attic with my crutches and Iwalk.

     
     
133. on 25 Jan 2016 at 12:05 am133 JJ

     Hey everyone. Thanks for the helpful advice. I am not very excited about what is to come though. I’m 14 and broke my right leg, ankle, and foot into 7 pieces when a drunk driver hit me. This is my first full week with a fiberglass cast going up my whole thigh. I’m gonna have it on for another 6weeks. Hopefully will be able to walk or move next week. Then the boot it all goes well. I don’t have any trouble sleeping though they have me on so much medication. Won’t be able to go back to school for a awhile either. The doctors said I might never be able to play baseball again. That’s my whole life. I might as well be dead. Have to keep pulling through it though. Wish me luck for the next 4 months of my life. Good luck to everyone else out there.

     
     
134. on 26 Jan 2016 at 11:54 pm134 bobbie24

     Hello there JJ,
     I hope you have the will and determination to do everything you can to prove your doctor wrong with regard to playing baseball again, if it’s what you love, let it be your motivator.
     I understand at the beginning of these very long recoveries it all seems overwhelming, being immobilised & to some degree isolated it’s hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. There are certainly some hoops to jump through, some pain & frustrations, and the rehab. We have all at some time felt this and it’s OK. Keep your mind busy & active, stay as positive as you can, listen to your specialists & physios work with them when it’s time and give it your best shot.
     I will so be interested in keeping a track of your recovery & hope you keep us posted, there is a lot of great advise on this blog, and some truly supportive patients who will offer as much support as they can if they are or have experienced similar.
     Hang in there & stay in touch thinking of you and wishing you well Robyn

     
     
135. on 31 Jan 2016 at 1:04 am135 Marcia Chatfield

     I broke my ankle after a fall Dec , had lots of medical complications, MAYO has me listed as a alien as they cannot figure out alot of my issues. Have a severe clotting issue, and am currently on 360 mg of loenox a day and levels are still sub theraputic. the boot is so uncomfortable at night. I think I will try tonight to put a ice pack over the lover extremity/ankle and see if this helps.
     Will update tomorrow or Monday

     Marci

     
     
136. on 31 Jan 2016 at 4:38 am136 metonia

     I did a site search for CoreLINE walkers and this is the only result it gave, however I couldn’t find anything on CoreLINE’s unless I overlooked it.

     It did give me a chance to read/skim everyones stories here though.

     Marcia, I can understand the “alien” concept, one of my physical therapists once called me a “train wreck”. When I asked him why he said because I had so many differant things wrong with me and I was hard to diagnose which issue was giving me the problem. Also because of my multitude of problems new ones could be misdiagnosed as a recurring old one and missed completely. Hence the train wreck analogy.

     
     
137. on 31 Jan 2016 at 4:40 am137 metonia

     Good luck and well wished for everyone posting here on your recoveries.

     
     
138. on 02 Feb 2016 at 1:45 am138 Hope

     Thanks everyone for sharing your story,this is mine .broken my ankle At skating ,4pins and 1 plate and 5 screws .2weeks after surgery they removed the cast and replaced it by aircast.i was told to remove it to do exercise while I am sitting .it is really sucks with 3 kids .wish you all a fast recovery.

     
     
139. on 10 Feb 2016 at 9:49 pm139 Gma

     I have been skimming the info above and thought I would share mr story.

     I sustained a ruptured ATFL and CFL Maithili fractures / bruising of the calcaneus, cuboid and cuneiform bones from simply twisting my left ankle. Was taken to hospital by ambulance and the initial X rays showed “no fracture” sent home with crutches. Follow up scan No soft tissue damage.
     A week later when my ankle was extremely swollen and with bruising the colour of the old fashioned telephone and pain level increasing not decreasing I was seen be a specialist, and a MRI confirmed the above diagnosis.
     The injury had been exacerbated by lack of diagnosis. That aside the specialist ordered a cryocuff which I hired from the local physio for three weeks and this the point of adding my story.
     The cryocuff saved my sanity and helped greatly with pain relief It is a soft vinyl/rubber sleeve which you wrap around the injured part and then attach it to a small basket which you fill with ice slurry. You elevate the basket and the slurry fills the sleeve and “ices” the whole ankle. You use it in the same fashio as a soft ice pack. On for ten or fifteen minutes every couple of hours.

     The main advantages of using this device was pain relief( I had a little man in my ankle who was operating a jack hammer and was a diligent worker with very little down time)
     And helped to decrease the swelling.

     The specialist gave me a moon boot which I only took off to use the cryocuff , do the exercises ordered by the physio, and to bathe. It was a pain sleeping with the moonboot but I persevered , sleeping in the moon boot for a month, and then graduated to sleeping in an aero splint but continued using the moon boot during the day for another month before progressing to just using the aero splint when mobile during the day for another six weeks.

     The physio monitored my progress and gave me worthwhile exercises to do. I continue to inprove and thankfully will not need surgery. I am now pain free and have the occasional twinge whenI have been on my feet a lot.

     Each injury is different and no two are the same. But I hope that shareing my experience may be helpful to some one.

     Hang in there there is light at the end of the tunnel.

     
     
140. on 10 Feb 2016 at 11:36 pm140 Manny

     Thanks for sharing, GMA. It is a shame when a misdiagnosis causes so much pain, but I’m glad you are over it.
     How long ago was your injury?

     Manny

     
     
141. on 11 Feb 2016 at 12:42 am141 Gma

     Thanks for your best wishes Manny. My injury was eight months ago. I am a senior and so ligament and tendon damage as well as fractures take a little longer to heal.

     My ankle is still a little unstable but I can live with that as I am pain free.

     
     
142. on 12 Feb 2016 at 12:00 am142 Liz

     I may have a stress fracture and I’m waiting to get the mri and I’m in a small walking shoe because anything else I use hurts my foot. So should I wear it to bed and should I ice it each night?

     
     
143. on 12 Feb 2016 at 8:58 am143 Manny

     Liz, I’m a firm believer in asking a specialist if it is covered by your insurance. My 5 cents worth is that protection is good while you sleep! I slept with the boot wrapped in a pillow case for 2 months, even though the Dr. had said I didn’t need it, but I’ve been known to sleep walk and just didn’t want to risk hurting myself again.
     As for icing, the mantra for Achilles Tendon Rupture and associated problems is RICE:
     Rest*, Ice, Compress, Elevate! So, keep the foot elevated, ice it to reduce swelling. *Not sure if R is rest, but I am sure the team will correct any mistakes I make (my wife does it all the time!) LOL
     Good luck with the diagnosis and treatment!
     Manny

     
     
144. on 13 Feb 2016 at 3:05 pm144 Honey

     Hi Everyone,

     Very interesting Blog & Comments.
     I would like to set the record straight on a few issues / comments that others have made here.

     FACT - An Air Boot can be prescribed for a wide variety of leg, ankle, foot injuries (Breaks, Sprains, Tears, etc) So there is no one size fits all answer or rule. What you are PRESCRIBED TO DO depends a lot on if your foot can bear weight or not (FUll - Partial - None). So one should not just look to the Internet for answers to one’s situation… this is a convo you should have with your Doctor, so as not to do something that would slow your PERSONAL Recovery, or worse not allow YOU to get full movement after the injury site has healed.

     Personally, I have a “Maisonneuve Fracture” of the Fibula (the thinner leg bone) up by my knee. And as a result my tendons in my ankle have stretched, and my ankle now sits agape in the socket.

     While i awaited Surgery, they put me in a leg cast for 24 Hours. In Surgery, they put 2 screws into my ankle to anchor things, tieing my Fibula to my Tibia. And then fitted me with an Air Boot (nothing they can do for a broken Fibula this high… It will just mend on its own as long as the Tibia & Ankle remain fixed in place).

     They tell me it will be 2 weeks until I get the stiches / staples out. Then somewhere down the road they’ll take out the screws. But in total it could be 12 to 16 weeks (3 to 4 months) Recovery… A time frame where I MUST NOT put any weight on my foot / ankle. So it is crutches - hopping / bumming it - and a wheelchair for me (depending where I am / need to do).

     It sucks big time ! And it’s only been a few days.

     Sleeping in the Air Boot isn’t terrible, yet. But sitting all day with it on leg up, and hopping / dragging this weighty albatross around is tiring.

     Sigh.

     
     
145. on 13 Feb 2016 at 3:48 pm145 Stuart

     Honey - you are correct in what you say and this site does take the place of proper medical opinion. This is an old thread and the original question was asked by someone who had ruptured his Achilles tendon. There is a great amount of personal experience here which can be of help to people recovering. In my many years since rupture I have heard countless stories of people being treated terribly by their doctors and they have been advised to seek another doctor. Doctors are not the ‘be all’ and we should not follow them blindly. We also should not follow advice from a blog blindly but we can use it to educate ourselves so we can better advocate for our own treatment. I cannot comment on your injury or treatment as I have no experience with it. When I ruptured my AT I did a huge amount of research and reading. I would encourage everyone to do their own research outside sites like this then take that coversation to your doctor if you feel you would like to change your rehab. But you can use sites like this to point the way. I was told NWB for 6 weeks and was walking unaided in the boot at 4. My doctor was happy with my progress and discharged me after 5 weeks to continue my PT. In the end people are responsible for what they do so if they follow advice from an anonymous person on the net and it goes wrong then it is really their own fault. I hope your recovery goes well. I could not bear to be so long without bearing weight. Have you investigated a knee scooter as an option for mobility?

     
     
146. on 13 Feb 2016 at 6:20 pm146 Manny

     Honey, I guess the knee crutch is out for you as is the knee scooter. There is another crutch that uses your forearm and looks like a 7, and they have good promo…

     Good luck with the NWB, and I agree that we have to follow our Dr’s advice, since the Dr. knows more than we do about our condition.

     Take care! and good luck !
     Manny

     
     
147. on 24 Feb 2016 at 10:26 pm147 Tori

     Question I broke my foot on Thursday morning and just found out bout it on Sunday night. I went and seen the Orthopedic Surgeon today. And he put me in a boot for two weeks then I go back to get it checked. To see if it is healing right or if I am going to have to have surgery to put pins in my foot. Question is should I sleep in my boot or take it off. I am NOT aloud to put pressure on it at all. I have to continue to use the crutches.

     
     
148. on 25 Feb 2016 at 3:15 pm148 Stuart

     Tori - the boot stays on in place of a cast. You need to keep it on at all times until the doc says otherwise. It will keep the bones together so they can knit. Hoping for no surgery I am sure.

     
     
149. on 21 Mar 2016 at 12:38 am149 jess90

     Hi everyone. I had fractured my ankle ( right ankle on the right side) i was in a cast for 4 weeks and now ive been in the boot for 4 weeks. The boot is like heaven compared to the cast. Every week in the boot i put 25% more body weight on it. i can finally walk on my own with boot on. I sleep with my boot just because my fracture is on the outter side of my ankle i would hate to knock it against sumthing. Its on comes off when i do my strecthes and showering

     
     
150. on 21 Mar 2016 at 7:44 pm150 Stu

     Hi all I’m after some advice/help as not had much from doctors… I broke a bone in my foot and was given a cast an was told 6/8 weeks to heal an will be in the cast for a week. I went to my local hospital to a fracture clinic they cut the cast off (after 2 days!) re xrayed it and put me in a boot so can walk with crutches.

     After 2 weeks of resting in the boot I went back for more xrays and doctor said healing slower than expected started to question why an how much I drink/smoke!? I’m a non smoker an do drink a fair bit but haven’t had much since I did this to my foot as lost appetite an felt fed up being house bound and out of work.
     Doctor told me could have surgery to help it heal or give it more time I opted for more time as only been 2weeks he rebooked me in for more xrays in 6weeks so that be a total of 8weeks but also told me if feel ok before hospital date and I can walk without boot to cancel the appointment and go back to normal life! After going home this seemed crazy to me as surely I should have an X-ray to say it’s all good before going back to work???

     Also I’m spending all my time in the boot apart from bathing an when the boot comes off my foot looks swollen and goes quite stiff…. Should I be icing the foot? Did for first week to help swelling. I’m not in any pain and can even walk in the boot without my crutches now just not sure if I’m over doing it?

     Sorry for long post not had anyone to share my problems with and get any info back… Thanks for reading and look forward to any advice from you guys an gals

     
     
151. on 22 Mar 2016 at 9:23 am151 Manny

     Stu, the boot protects your foot and allows you to walk without moving the bones and articulations, BUT if your boot is loose then some movement might take place inside it. I’m not too worried though, because your Dr was not worried. Bone healing is different from tendon healing, and I would listen to the specialist. Also, my orthopedist also had told me to go off boot on a specific date, without seeing him - but I insisted on the medical visit and it was quick and cursory and I walked out in two shoes. That is one of the wonderful things about the boot. You can simply take it off yourself.
     That leads to the icing question: the answer is YES, do ice the foot, but also ELEVATE it. You want to reduce swelling as much as possible.
     Take care, Happy Healing, and do keep us updated on your situation…… Manny

     
     
152. on 30 Mar 2016 at 9:50 pm152 Fran

     Hey all, happy to see this site while I’m in questioning mode.

     Just (apparently) tore part of my left achilles. Not surgery level (I hope) but I’m in a boot, crutches. Have yet to see an orthopedic dr and was not given many instructions, which is why I’m here.

     Had my boot two days now, elevating whenever I can. Last night, slept with it on; tonight, experimenting with off. The weight of the boot feels like it’s hurting my foot more. So question: can the weight of a boot actually create more problems in a partial tear? (I’m also not ruling tendinitis out.)

     Thanks in advance, and it really helped to read a lot of your stories.

     
     
153. on 30 Mar 2016 at 10:05 pm153 lbcdan

     It’s a good feeling to know you aren’t going at this alone. I want to start a blog but I’m having the hardest time figuring out how to. When I click the button to start my blog, it keeps sending me to a page that says I don’t have to register as I’m already logged in.

     It can’t be this hard can it?

     
     
154. on 31 Mar 2016 at 9:34 am154 Manny

     welcome to our tribe, lbcdan. The instructions for starting a blog are in the introductory paragraphs of the achillesblog page, and it involves requesting the page directly to the organizer. This extra step came about because of spammers who were ruining (and still try to ruin) our exchanges.
     Good luck and happy healing!
     Manny

     
     
155. on 31 Mar 2016 at 9:46 am155 Manny

     Fran, the boot is designed to protect the tendon (I hope you have wedges in it, or if it is the VacuCast, that you have it set to point your toes down). The foot hurts and complains about the boot, but the complaints and pains are from lack of movement, and YOU DON’T WANT TO MOVE YOUR FOOT MUCH IF THE ORTHOPEDIST HASN’T CHECKED YOU OUT. No, I’m not souting at you, just making sure you read that sentence.
     I, personally, slept in my boot way past when the Dr. told me I could sleep without it, since there are many risks to sleeping “foot loose”: sleepwalking, tripping when going to the bathroom in the dark, spouse or you kicking in your sleep, jumping out of bed due to a dream, etc.
     According to my Orthopedist, the achilles will heal no matter what, but you don’t want it to heal and leave you limping or lame. Yeah, its that serious. A partial tear can easily turn into a full rupture, and requires lots of Physical Therapy, just as a full rupture does, since you want the scar tissue/collagen to turn into real tendon tissue (a very slow process that requires special exercises - Bobbie and Beanie are experts in the exercising for this).
     Good luck, and good healing!……………..
     and keep us posted!……. Manny

     
     
156. on 05 Apr 2016 at 1:00 pm156 Alexa Corcoran

     Hi there -

     I’m so glad I found this website,
     though I’m not happy that we’re all here for unfortunate reasons.

     I have a couple questions for y’all. I have an avulsion fracture in my 5th metatarsal on my right foot after falling from a bench, turned my ankle completely and landing with my full body weigh on a stone floor. Yes, bummer. Right foot.

     It was slightly displaced set but the ortho did not feel I needed surgery. This is a relief. I am in a FLA Air Walker boot. It has a pump that inflates that is dealt into the boot and is a low boot.

     I do however have a few questions:

     1) The ortho said it was slightly displaced but did not need surgery to heal straight. I am not supposed to go back for another appointment until four weeks. Do you think I should request another x-ray at two weeks? I’m concerned if it’s not healing straight that I will have a worse problem in the long run.

     2) In the x-ray, I can see a small chip from the bone that is beside the fractured bone. What will happen to that piece? Will it somehow be absorbed? I can’t imagine that it’s good for it to remain in my foot?

     3) I was not sleeping in the boot, but now think I should call the ortho to ask whether I should be? It is so painful on my foot, even now that the swelling has gone down. Maybe it would be less painful if I wore it more consistently?

     4) I have very high arches. The way the boot pulls across the arch of my foot not only hurts where the bone is fractured towards the side, but is pulling down my arch and creating numbness and pain across my whole foot. The air when inflated seems to only surround my ankle and calf which are fairly thin but not filling in beneath my arch or around my heel. Do you think there is a pad or insert I could use to help support my arch?

     5) Sigh, driving. I am only just now realizing that this broken bone situation is more serious than I thought it would be. Not just two weeks and back on your feet. So will I really not be driving for likely six weeks? My husband is going to go crazy.

     Thank you for any advice you can provide from your experiences. I know it could be worse, but it’s very disheartening to be in thia situation, especially with the spring weather and my inability to drive and participate in my kids’ activities.

     Thanks in advance,
     Alexa

     
     
157. on 05 Apr 2016 at 1:42 pm157 pozaicer

     hi Alexa

     sorry to hear your story

     your questions sound to me like you really need a second opinion and a quick visit to ensure the correct fitting of the boot.

     i don’t follow the connection between the fifth metatarsal and the ankle twist. is the ankle injured in any way?

     the boot you have is for such injuries, if it was the ankle area probably a ‘taller’ boot would’ve been prescribed to you. i would imagine that you should be non-weight bearing for a while, is this correct?

     finally, the boot shouldn’t be so tight that it is presenting such troubles, but indeed the swelling compounds the issue.

     the husband going mad… well relationships are always hard my woman didn’t go mad, well not much… and it takes time to adapt to a new patter of living, luckily it is temporary

     this said, i am not a doctor so please do go back and ask all your questions. you should definitely keep the boot on for sleeping unless explicitly told otherwise. X-rays are tricky to read, did the doctor say anything about the severity of the displacement? ‘common’ (by whichever measures, again i’m no doctor) avulsion fractures of this kind have displacement that if treated conservatively (like yours) resume full functionality.

     please let us know how you get on!

     suerte

     
     
158. on 06 Apr 2016 at 3:01 pm158 Mary Ann

     Hi everyone,
     I had a slip and fall on the ice the first of January
     I had a spiral break on the big bone and another break on the top of the thinner bone. Like a triple break
     Fib/Tib or Tib/Fib
     It felt like glass cutting me on the inside.
     I was lucky to have an on-call specialist at the hospital when I was diagnosed with the bad break and my footangled out by itself
     I now have a rod in my leg from the knee to the ankle, one screw at the top and two at the bottom.
     Just found out that a screw or two will need to come out so the leg realizes it is carrying the weight instead of the screws.
     I do not have the pain, the knee sometimes is sore and stiff
     We are starting month 4
     I have been in PT already for about a month and a half.
     At first to get some movement in the knee and ankle, because they were not allowed to move for the first month.
     So for the first month the boot was on at all times.
     Second month, I was told I ‘could’ sleep without it, and I tried, but did NOT sleep. I have slept WELL with the boot on. An as folks have mentioned, loosen the straps. And “I” was given filler pads to put in wherever there were gaps, or needed cushioning, And I have used one of them the entire time.
     The other idea, from my husband, who worries, is if you have to get up in a hurry, it is better if the boot is already on, then trying to fumble in the dark; especially if the power going out is the problem/we’ve had some bad windy storms.

     I now am sleeping without the boot, a couple of days, and learning to walk on my leg again with the boot and walker, and then with a cane, which I tipped over with… Not quite ready for the cane. So slow progress but I am being told very
     good progress.

     I exercise with the ‘bands’ everyday to strengthen the areas they tell me to work. And when it gets sore, I am told to quit and put my boot back on. We’re hoping I will be boot and walker free May 4th! We shall see.

     Bones heal very slowly.
     I am blessed we did not have any complications or infections!
     AMEN!

     
     
159. on 06 Apr 2016 at 4:44 pm159 Manny

     Welcome to our blog group, MaryAnn, and to the Boot Clan (it sems you are in the Fractured Bone Tribe, but still family to the Achilles people). LOL
     It sounds like you are recovering well and with a wonderful husband who gives good advice (as a husband myself, I have to give him free advertising), you will surely be in two shoes next month! Just Practice with the cane while holding on to a railing or tabletop, since the cane is really for balance and only minimal support. I actually had my Physical Therapist help me walk better with my cane, and you can do the same.
     Good luck and happy healing, and keep us informed!
     Manny

     
     
160. on 13 Apr 2016 at 2:36 pm160 metonia

     HI Alexa, Hope you found answers to your post already. If you haven’t followed up with your doctor and questions and chose to wait until your 4 week check up you could try wrapping your ankle and foot in an elastic ace wrap. This should also help give your arch some support. You could also check with your doctor to see if an arch support in the boot is allowed.

     As for the splintered bone, it may or may not reattach depending on how close it is to the bone and how the pressure from the boot aligns it.

     Some people have a small fragment that never gives them any additional problems, others eventually need it remove. Definitely ask you doctor.

     Let us know how you are doing. Best of luck on your recovery

     
     
161. on 17 Apr 2016 at 7:27 pm161 Kel

     Hi everyone,
     I have a non-displaced 2nd and 3rd acute metatarsal fracture (thanks to misplaced step while hiking with the dog) and it has been far more emotional than I think it should be. Or am I mistaken? I’m NWB - in a boot with crutches and the emotional enormity of the smallest of tasks can bring me to tears. I’m lucky- I have a husband who is helping me, despite that- there are only so many hours of reading and television before I feel that I’m losing my mind. I just returned to work after a week off and I’m finding that it takes a huge amount of strength and energy (and coordination) to master crutches- even with the boot. It is day 17 post injury- I find myself googling “Can fractured metatarsals heal in 3 weeks?” - to my dismay, they do not.

     Thank you all for your comments. Since injuring myself I have been reading this site and figured i would be remiss not to contribute (although all I’m truly doing is whining)

     
     
162. on 17 Apr 2016 at 8:26 pm162 Manny

     Hi, Kel, and I guess you are a member of the Boot Clan within the Fractured Foot Tribe.
     You have a number of questions, and the first is that YES! We all go crazy from inactivity the first few weeks. Shady1 has some interesting anecdotes on things to do in a boot. I, myself, made a video of myself dancing with a crutch… Anything to while away the boredom.
     On a more serious note, I got certified as a Life Coach during my NWB and PWB days, and am now finishing up my Master Coach Certification. Of course, I merely ruptured a tendon, while you have 2 fractures! I wonder what creative opportunity you will take advantage of!
     And as for the healing of your fractures, that is up to your orthopedist, though I had thought fractures healed quicker than tendons… As you know, this blog is focused on achilles tendons, but we are “real friendly-like people”.
     At 3 weeks, you already learned most of the basics, and I’d suggest you look into a knee scooter (unless you have to go up and down stairs, as I do).
     To close this note, I want to remind you to let your Dr. know (and later your Physical Therapist) of what is going on. Sometimes a more aggressive rehab protocol is possible, and you can only find out by asking.
     Happy Healing……… Manny

     
     
163. on 18 Apr 2016 at 3:41 am163 Alexa Corcoran

     Hi again -

     Thanks for your guidance above. So it’s been about 2 1/2 weeks now since I fractured my 5th metatarsal. Crutches until two days ago and now I’m walking in my aircast (which isn’t horrible - some swelling after I take it off and sore, but not sharp pain.)

     My question now is pretty simple - Did folks with an avulsion fracture have a bump after you were healed - a tangible hard edited area where the bones are and presumably are healing?

     I’m not seeing the orthopedist again for another 2 weeks and I’m just nervous about how this seems to be healing with a pretty significant bump. Is this part of the healing at my stage? Or should I be concerned that the bone isn’t healing straight.

     I didn’t sleep in my aircast and I worry a little that my foot was sort of free to angle about at night. I didn’t always wear it when resting it elevated the first week or so - I didn’t realize I should wear it all the time during the day vs just when vertical.

     I don’t know if it’s like breaking your nose which often results in a permanent bump - or if I should be concerned?

     Again, the sharp pain has definitely lessened, just soreness now and more intense if I have been out or I make the mistake of Regina to put pressure on my toes.

     I’m going to be bummed if it last because it’s definitely going to affect the comfort of my foot in shoes as opposed to my intact left foot. Right now the most unconfortable part of the day is the boot strapped over that lump in the bone.

     Thanks for sharing your experience with this!

     akcorcoran

     
     
164. on 18 Apr 2016 at 6:39 am164 Lynda

     Kia ora
     I have been resting my sore swollen right ankle in bed and found this site. I slipped down a sandy cement path at speed on Waitangi Day 6th Feb and broke both my tib and fib on the way down, gracing the inside of the ankle as I slid. 2 weeks back slab before operation, 2 pins one side and a plate with six screws the other. 6 weeks followed on a fibreglass cast and I am now 2 weeks into a 6week moon boot regime. So, I was searching to see why on earth I have to sleep with the moon boot on, I find it aggravates my ankle wound and scars so after the first couple of days I purchased a high support ankle brace which is light and comfortable and soooo much easier to sleep in. I also go ‘foot solo’ if that gets too annoying too. What I have noticed is a significant improvement in my foot movement and flexibility during exercise times. My physio said to exercise the foot every hour..and I’m with him. I also notice exercising my feet together, with music, in a warm bath, while sitting on a stool, was so much more motivating and comfortable. Heat helps relax and flex the foot. Music is fun to move to and working my feet together gives me an idea of progress and where I’m aiming.
     So for me, I’m using the moon boot for walking slowly, crutches in hand, but the rest of the time its either off and foot elevated or I’m gently exercising it.

     Good luck to everyone.

     
     
165. on 18 Apr 2016 at 8:40 am165 Alexa Corcoran

     Oh, one more quickie question - I am in the FLA Air Walker, low boot. Does anyone know the elevation of the heel / platform to I can wear something that compensates on my other foot? I know about the Evenup product and ordering for home, but looking for some sneaker with the right elevation to wear on some occasions.

     Thanks in advance!

     
     
166. on 19 Apr 2016 at 7:16 am166 Manny

     Alexa: You asked about a lump at the fracture site, and my recollection of an old fracture is that yes, the collagen forms a bump. If this bump is a problem, I’d check with your orthopedist as soon as possible before it becomes bone that would have to be surgically removed.
     As for sleeping without the boot, it is like all risky behavior: you run the risk.
     You have a fracture, so I can’t comment on that rehab protocol, just on the fact that the boot does protect the foot and allow us to move around and heal quicker.
     As for the height of the lift you need, I used trial and error, since you need to readjust every time a wedge is taken out of the boot (this is for achilles tendon recovery).
     Good luck and happy healing.

     Lynda: sorry to hear about your accident, and with you the best during the healing process.
     Happy Healing…………. Manny

     Manny

     
     
167. on 07 May 2016 at 4:48 am167 CK

     i have a suggestion for those of you who are wearing a removable boot after a fracture and/or surgery. Go online and buy yourself a roll of cotton knit tube stockinette. You can cut this to any length you want to protect your incision inside the boot. The material is soft and stretchy, and makes a very comfortable layer between your skin and the boot. It comes in 25-yard rolls, and you can either wash or discard the stockinette as you wish. i also recommend baby wipes to clean and soothe the incision as well as the dry skin inside the boot. Baby wipes often contain aloe and vitamin E, which help soothe and heal your poor skin.

     
     
168. on 10 May 2016 at 11:59 pm168 carla

     I fractured my fibula in my right ankle and was in a splint for two weeks then my doc put me in walking boot yesterday. Should i sleep with it on i did the first night but it gets uncomfortable any suggestions?

     
     
169. on 12 May 2016 at 6:25 pm169 Mj

     Carla,
     I fractured my fibula too and was told to wear the boot for 2 weeks. After that I could remove to sleep and if on the couch with my leg up. Always to wear when moving around. No weight beating until x-rays at 4 weeks. Better safe than sorry and wear the boot to sleep.

     
     
170. on 29 May 2016 at 8:31 pm170 JohnD.

     I broke my right fibula three weeks ago when my motorcycle fell on my leg. At the hospital it was determined that it was broken and a fiberglass splint was out on it. I went to an orthopedic a week after that and the splint was removed and a boot was given to me. A week after that I had surgery on the fibula with a plate and six screws installed. It is healing slowly and though I know it is against doctors orders I have put weight on it with only minor pain. I live alone with only minimal help and as such need to be self reliant as much as possible. I am unsure of the effects of putting weight on it before the six week time period prescribed by the orthopedic. Some of those on this forum apparently were told that they could put weight on their injured leg when they “could tolerate it.” That is essentially what I am doing but I am worried that I will prolong the actual recovery time. I can’t stand the boot at night and because I am sitting for 99% in a recliner with my foot elevated I don’t see the point of the boot.
     Is anyone else going this route? What are the downsides? Maybe I am wrong but it seems that if you can tolerate it you should gingerly work to get back to normal.

     
     
171. on 30 May 2016 at 4:46 pm171 Stuart

     JohnD - we have a few broken leg people visit but you should not confuse a broken fibula with an Achilles tendon. The fibula is being held in place with a plate and screws to achieve alignment while the body repairs the bone. By putting weight on the bone now you are risking that alignment. Generally you would have an x-ray at some stage soon to check this so if it were me I would take the weight off or you may find yourself starting over. I also know that early weight bearing for avulsion of tendons (where the tendon is torn off the bone) may inhibit the osification of the tendon where it connects to the bone. A tendon is a bit boney at the bone end and a bit more like muslce at the other. I don’t know if this applies to bones though. Weight bearing as tolerated when mentioned here referes specifically to Achilles tendon. I also hated sleeping in the boot but you should probably seek advice on that from your doctor. It may be OK to take it off in bed.

     
     
172. on 04 Jun 2016 at 7:52 am172 Lukas

     Hello, I have avulsion fracture of my 5th metatarsal. Ordered 6 weeks NWB in boot when moving till I get my 2nd xray, and can take it off when needed while resting. I sleep with the boot. I’m just starting week 3 and been getting pain free control of my toes other then the two smallest that I can’t flex yet. Can curling my toes re-injure my healing of my avulsion fracture? Does not seem like it pulls on the tendon of my 5th mt. My main concern is last night I had a bad dream in pain and woke up to myself curling my toes and pushing off the boot for who knows how long. My ankle and lower shin are cramped now because I haven’t used the muscles and pushing weight off the boot with my toes probably wasn’t the best reaction to have not knowingly. My break does not hurt though.Was my toe curl more like PT for my ankle sprain? I feel like I would know if I caused any setbacks to my injury? Thanks.

     
     
173. on 09 Jun 2016 at 9:39 am173 Daneb86

     Great blogs guys. Just found it and very helpful!
     I have ruptured my Achilles and had surgery 2.5 weeks ago and
     Now in a moon boot with wedges. Go back in 4 weeks to take wedges out. How did everyone’s recovery timeline? 6 weeks start to walk??? If your work is physical, when do you go back to work? Any info greatly appreciated

     
     
174. on 23 Jun 2016 at 6:34 am174 sissy

     I’m into my third week of wearing the boot after rupturing my AT. I’m hoping to be wearing it for 6 weeks max, the Dr believes that the rupture is nearer the calf that the heal however my scan isn’t until the 1st July. Just wondering how long people been unable to weight bear? Thank you

     
     
175. on 23 Jun 2016 at 3:31 pm175 Stuart

     Sissy - Ruptures near the calf are rarely treated surgically as it is too hard to sew the tendon which is also a bit like muscle at that point. The good news is there may be more blood flow in that area to the tendon which wil aid healing. Early weight bearing protocols for non-op start around now for you and you should read up on them first. It is more important for non-op patients to early weight bear (as tolerated) as it has been shown to reduce the risk of re-rupture. Some doctors will tell you no weight bearing for 12 weeks. You hope to wear the boot for 6 weeks and if that means 6 weeks from rupture then it may be a little early but not unheard of. There is plenty of information available on this site if you have the time to search. Key words are Richard Wallace, Exceter, UWO. They will lead you to research papers and modern protocols.

     
     
176. on 10 Jul 2016 at 2:37 pm176 Sara

     Hi All,

     Fell 11 days ago and chipped my navicular bone and sprained my ankle. Was put in short walker boot and told walking as tolerated in boot for 4-6 weeks (crutches not necessary). Everything I am reading says this conservative treatment heals well. But, wondering if anyone can testify to that - no surgery, no casting. Will I heal up well in that time?

     
     
177. on 12 Jul 2016 at 5:40 am177 Mrsflash

     Hi, I have 4 or more lisfranc fractures in my right foot, plus a torn ligament between my first and second toe, x-rays initially diagnosed, 3 weeks later, still sore and slightly swollen, mentioned this during a routine appt with my G.P, he suggested a follow-up CT. Urgent phone call and a 7 hour visit to ER diagnosis was now at least 4 fractures, non displaced but unstable. Treatment plan 6 weeks in a cam walker, NWB. I live alone so crutches and zimmer frame to me are a death wish. Hired a knee scooter for around home and a mobility scooter to go further afield. 10 day follow up. Have now been told that I have a torn ligament, didn’t know that before. Have to be in walker 24/7 including in bed. Except to say wearing this in bed was unsuccessful, I was still awake at 6a.m. and swelling was up on the top of my foot this morning making it painful, everytime i moved in bed it was most uncomfortable. Any suggestions about what I can do/use to get a better nights sleep. Want to follow instructions but more pain than actual initial injury and anytime since then. I could really do with some suggestions. I guess the moral to this story is I am not superhuman, in future don’t try and move double door melamiine cupboards on your own. They have a habit of overbalancing on the moving trolley, falling over and pinning you to the ground.

     
     
178. on 12 Jul 2016 at 10:56 pm178 GranmaB

     Shattered calcaneus (heel) 9 weeks ago. 8 weeks post op. Plate & 6 screws. 4 more weeks non weight bearing. As of last Friday, boot is off at night. Started going into the pool 4 days ago & it was heaven. Doing lots of ROM exercises. I think the worse part of being NWB is the boredom & dependency. If you have access to a pool, hot tub, Walmart kids pool, anything that you can put your foot in and move it around would help. When they tell me I can start to walk, I want my joints, muscles, etc to be able to move without pain.

     
     
179. on 21 Jul 2016 at 7:38 am179 Beverly

     I fell off a boulder and broke my calcaneus heel in 3 places this past Saturday. ER put me in large soft cast and saw ortho dr yesterday. Put me in moonboot and told not to put any weight on my heel. Hoping for surgery this coming Tuesday.
     I also did a number on my right shoulder so have rotator cuff pt coming up next week.
     Crutches and walker are out for me due to rotator cuff. Rented a knee walker (my left knee is now black and blue from kneeling on it)
     Moonboot hurts so in reading this blog just released Velcro straps while laying on elevated pillows and feels better already.
     I was invited to a job interview next Friday and now I have to tell them I am withdrawing as this will be a 12 week process, breaks my heart but sure there will be other jobs out there once I am ready!
     I chuckle about husband and wives having to adjust as my husband is now learning how to do all of the tasks I did. After 28 years of marriage he is learning how to do the dishes the right way and fold laundry and thank goodness for take out or I would starve! Quite the learning curve and we can do this.
     As a newbie I have a lot to learn and yes, back hurts, bored, nap a lot and on Motrin only.
     Would love to hear from more heal break folks as I guess I have a long journey ahead of me. Thank you to the site master for having this blog!

     
     
180. on 23 Jul 2016 at 10:00 am180 wendy

     Hi there, I have a question for you all. In January I took the antibiotic Levaquin for bronchitis. I had an allergic reaction to it and it shut my nervous system down for 6 weeks. One of the side effects of this anti biotic is that it weakens your achilles tendon and can cause it to rupture, which can happen 6 months to a year after taking it, (as if the allergic reaction wasnt enough) I have been in a cam boot for 5 weeks and having physical therapy and acupuncture and using this machine called an I therm to try and reduce the swelling and prevent the rupturing. Its not really working. So here is my question. My Podiatrist suggested a shot in my Achilles called Amnio Flo. it is a kind of stem cell therapy. Its rediculously expensive and not covered by insurance. $2000. Crazy right? have any of you ever heard of this shot?
     Thank you for any feedback and I truly wish you all a speedy and positive recovery

     
     
181. on 19 Aug 2016 at 12:45 am181 Kelly

     Hi All. I fractured my fibula 12 days ago. In a cast for 10 days and put in a moon boot 2 days ago. I am sleeping in the boot as I am still in a fair amount of pain, but the boot is really uncomfortable and causing me a lot of pain in my heel. It almost feels like I am squeezing my foot into a shoe that is too small. I have just had to take the boot off as I couldn’t bear it! Anyone experienced anything like this? I am still nwb so am using crutches.

     
     
182. on 27 Aug 2016 at 1:51 pm182 Carina

     Hi All,

     This thread has been really helpful, if only not to feel so alone during this process. I fractured my left fibula 1 week ago. I saw an orthopedic surgeon 2 days ago and she put in a boot. I am nwb, and she told me I could remove my boot to sleep and shower. Because of being splinted for 5 days my foot was at an awkward angle for the boot, so she put s couple of soft “risers” under my heel, with the instructions to try and remove them within a couple days (not more than a week) as the achilles relaxes. I was really uncomfortable yesterday, so we removed the boot for a few hours while I rested, and when we put it back on, we removed the risers. It was super uncomfortable, so we put them back in. The broken ankle is one thing, but I am experiencing pain in so many other places in my foot! Has anyone had those riders in heir boot? Also–those who have had boots, do you remove the boot to ice?

     
     
183. on 02 Sep 2016 at 6:24 am183 Pete

     Hi all. Fractured my achilles tendon, 90%, 4 weeks ago. Spent first 2 weeks in a cast and since in a moon boot. Will be non weight bearing for another 2 weeks minimum!
     Suggestion; a great alternative to crutches is a knee scooter. I had never heard of them but they are great and so easy to use.
     Questions; 1) How do you stop the velcro fitting lining smelling of feet. (They need washing every day!!!)
     2) Is st advisable to sleep in it ar OK to take it off??

     
     
184. on 02 Sep 2016 at 11:14 am184 Elaine

     Hi everyone I fractured my ankle non bearing bone and had a cast for a week and now in a moon boot which I find very scary as my doctor has told me to bear weight but I hurt my good foot on the Achilles heel because I was pounding on crutches for a week on holiday abroad so trying to bear weight is not comfortable I have been sleeping with boot off and has been fine also I do really struggle with crutches for some reason. Moon boot for at least five weeks

     
     
185. on 05 Sep 2016 at 11:25 am185 Fran kumpula

     I haven’t seen anything similar to what I have had done. I had major foot surgery 2 1/2 weeks ago. It involve surgically breaking and resetting with screws the long bone because of a genetic deformity from the big toe, shaving off the severe arthritis from the big toe joint, cutting the tendons in 2nd thru 5th toes to shorten them, because they had begun to start with the 2nd toe slightly crossing the big toe (hammertoe)and the following toes shifting in position, and the removal of joints in the 4th and 5th toes. This was an elective surgery to correct and prevent further problems as I age. Ok, now I’m non weight bearing for 6 weeks, using a knee scooter to get around except small spaces in the house like my closet, etc. where I need to use crutches. I was fit into a 1/2 boot at my 2 week appt. it is so uncomfortable I just can’t wear this thing! My Dr said I could take off while resting. I have made a call to the Dr office today to find out specifically how important the boot wearing is to recovery. I haven’t worn it to sleep either, it’s so heavy! A spot on my heel started to break down and I am afraid wearing the boot will make that worse! I had wondered why my heel was hurting so much during the first 2 weeks during the night even though I thought I was careful trying to avoid pressure, to keep my heel off the pillow at night and during the day. My husband, a RN, told me last night I should probably wear the boot to prevent foot drop. Does anybody know about that? I have 3 1/2 weeks to go before therapy and know this could take months to get back full range of activity with this foot. Someone mentioned a gel heel insert for the boot. Will this help me? Specifically what should I look for on Amazon?

     
     
186. on 06 Sep 2016 at 3:29 am186 Rebecca

     5 days ago I dropped a steak knife on my bare foot and severed the tendon to my big toe. Surgery was required to find the ends of the tendon and reattach them.
     I’m in an aircast boot to the knee. The doctor was very informative about the injury and surgery, but I only realized afterwards that I had no idea if I should wear the boot in bed, or indeed if I should be staying off this foot as much as possible (I’ve been doing my normal cooking/shopping etc though I’ve been off work, go back tomorrow). I just took the boot off each night without even thinking. Sleeping has been relatively ok, using an extremely lightweight fleece blanket rather than the usual sheets etc as I couldn’t handle the weight.
     I’m going to call the hospital tomorrow to get some answers, but I thought I’d post here as there wasn’t anything quite like my injury posted in all the other comments.

     
     
187. on 07 Sep 2016 at 5:11 pm187 Michelle

     I ruptured my calf muscle on Aug 20/16, saw a surgeon who put me in a aircast and gave me physio requisition. His bedside manner was horrible!!! I was wondering when I should start physio? I tried to call the number I was given but his mailbox is full

     
     
188. on 07 Sep 2016 at 5:14 pm188 Michelle

     I ruptured my calf muscle on Aug 20/16, saw a surgeon who put me in a aircast and gave me physio requisition. His bedside manner was horrible!!! I was wondering when I should start physio? I tried to call the number I was given but his mailbox is full

     
     
189. on 13 Sep 2016 at 7:27 pm189 Victor Thibault

     Tore mine on the 19th of August..had surgery the 24..two weeks later cast was removed and put in a boot..was told nwb for two weeks then a little for a few weeks..(I’ve been in the boot for 5 days)..then after a month no boot! also have the wedge inserts.. Also told I could sleep and shower without the boot..got an iwalk crutch 5 days after surgery and it is so much better than regular crutches..I also borrowed a scooter for when in the house….still hurts when I bend a little funny or bop something in my iwalk…I’m a 44 year old male..260 lbs..popped my stopping a rolling boat..on a trailer

     
     
190. on 23 Sep 2016 at 11:53 pm190 Lana

     I fell four days ago. The ER doctor said I had a fracture but now an ortho doctor says it’s a bad sprain. He put me on a boot but my foot gets very hot and feels like it’s on fire . I can’t sleep with it on either. It’s so heavy that it’s hurting my leg and my back and sciatic are hurting. Was this boot necessary ?? Is there something else I can do? He says I have to stay off of my foot

     
     
191. on 07 Nov 2016 at 11:21 pm191 Donna

     Great site. Thanks to everyone for their comments etc. I managed to get two fractures just one week ago and have a boot. I was told to stay in it 24/7 for the first week but am seeing a specialist in two days so reckon I will hang on until then. I am lucky enough to work from home so have been sitting at the computer with my leg raised as much as possible. Then hobbling to the couch for a bit of TV downtime. Someone said “think of it as a holiday” but it’s not my kind of vacation. But I think there are people out there doing it much tougher than me - so will stop moping. I should be back on my feet, literally, in a few weeks all going well. I was told “three to four weeks if you are good, three to four months if you are bad”. I am going for the good option. Even though I never thought I would be sleeping in a giant boot! Oh, last thing, someone told me to think of the boot as a “miracle worker” which I am now doing. Positivity helps…a bit,

     
     
192. on 19 Nov 2016 at 4:16 pm192 Debra J Cox

     Hello, to all..I hope people are still on this site, I have found some very helpful things to this….

     
     
193. on 19 Nov 2016 at 5:08 pm193 Debra J Cox

     Hello, everyone, I want to say thank you all, this site has been very helpful and I have gleaned alot of insight, from so many of you, thank you so much……I will tell my “story” the best I can…its a little “unique” and somewhat embarrassing and shameful. My injury was totally preventable, and unnecessary…. On Oct. 15th, I was higher than a noon-day kite, and I collapsed on the bathroom floor, was standing one minute…and the next, I hit the floor….and as they say ” the bigger you are, the harder you fall…” yep, so that was true in my case. So I fell, and then felt my left foot was very funny, like lifeless…I looked down and felt it, and saw the bone sticking right out, not out of the skin, but still saw it popped right out. Went to ER….. had X-rays, they said it was a bad break. I broke my tibia/fibula…..had surgery the next day Oct.16…. so fast forward to now…. at first I was in the flexiglass cast…after 2 weeks, it drove me nuts, I wanted to itch it so bad, and could not, so anyways I got into my Drs. office and they took that cast off, and I got the Aircast boot….now…you all wrote so many good things, I can’t remember everyone’s names, but yeah, you guys all had good points, so I will share where I am at now, w/ all of this. I got this boot on Tuesday of this week, at first I was thrilled to have it, and get out of that flexiglass, however, now, not so thrilled. I am NWB for at least the next 3 and 1/2 weeks…. and I am finding that it is nearly impossible to stay completely off it… w/ my transferring, i have some trouble….in the bathroom, and like someone else here, I am in a bedroom that is downstairs, so I have the issue w/ stairs, I go down just fine, slide on my butt, and thats ok, but coming up is ok, also, I go on my good foot and hold railing and keep bad foot up…. well I get to the top step w/ my wheelchair right there, i have not found a way to master getting into wheelchair w/ out putting slight pressure on my bad foot. I am very scared, and have no idea what to do….about that…..and about the complete depression from all of this…I have no idea what to do….anyways, I have more to say , but will wait to see who reads this and responds to it….oh, another thing, I slept w/ the boot on, for first 3 nights, now past 2 nights, I have not slept in it,and I have had no problems w/ this at all….feels good to have air on my leg and foot…i dont’ thrash around in the night, I just turn from one side to the other and thats it…and when I wake up to go to the bathroom, I just simply put the boot back on and got on my knee mobile and its all fine…..I have a knee mobile downstairs which I love , it is very helpful….I have wheelchair up stairs, where I am mostly,and a walker up here, too, I hate the walker…….what should I do about the stairs ….and sleeping w / boot off…any and all responses welcomed, thanks guys, and I wish everyone a speedy recovery, and keep your sanity, also…..sincerely , debbie ~

     
     
194. on 19 Nov 2016 at 11:28 pm194 vplite

     Welcome Debra,

     You found a unique way to hurt yourself, but don’t keep beating yourself up!

     Be positive. “This too will pass.” Depression is something most of us have to fight with these serious injuries.

     I know sometimes it is easier said than done, but just focus on the good things in life, and the knowledge that you are making progress toward getting your life back.

     In time you will recover, I guarantee.

     
     
195. on 24 Jan 2017 at 2:36 am195 Kristin

     I am glad I found this thread, although it’s a few years old, lots of good information. I don’t know if my experience is really like everyone else’s necessarily, and that’s mostly what I came to find out. Back on November 18th, I was at my (adult) daughter’s house, where we were having a good time over a bottle of coconut rum, and she tempted me onto the trampoline in her backyard. I ended up trying to do a backflip (never had a problem before) but this time I landed on my foot and my body weight came crashing down on it, dislocating it and breaking it in three places. Mind you, I have never had anything medical happen to me in my entire life, so I was woefully unprepared for this upending of my life.

     I had surgery on December 1st, one steel plate and eleven screws later, and I am now seven weeks into recovery. I was put into a splint-like cast at first (after the worst pain imaginable to a human being, post-surgery) and honestly, every time they wrapped it at the Dr.’s office or hospital, I would immediately upon returning home, unwrap it and re-wrap it, because it always felt too tight. I was in a boot after about two weeks. From the night I came home with it, I never wore it to bed. I only wore it when I was up moving around. I just couldn’t stand it. Then after a month, they did the x-rays, and the Dr. who reviewed them (one who hadn’t seen me before) said that she could barely even tell where the fractures were. So I was at that point on partial weight bearing. At first after that I was wearing the boot when I was moving around a lot, so I would shuffle around when I had it on. But after awhile (about two weeks into the month) I had just had it with the boot AND the crutches, and started to shuffle around on my own. I was not in any pain (which I considered my measure), except when I have been on it constantly for awhile, and it aches in the heel, like when your feet hurt if you’re on them all day. But here I am, seven weeks post-op, and I am “limping”, but sow what walking. I have to concentrate to make my foot roll, like normal, and I am not able to walk on it “correctly”, but when I do walk around, I try and consciously-albeit slowly-do it right so I can try and retrain the muscles to bear the weight. I will probably get into all kinds of trouble when I tell my doctor how much I have been on it, but I am progressing rapidly.

     They only reason I told this story is because I was looking for and wondering if anyone was pushing it like I am, and what their experience was. I expect I will get some criticism for not following doctor’s orders, but trust me, I face a litany every day from where I work, because everyone is constantly asking me whether I should be walking or where my crutches are or my boot is (it is currently under my desk at work, where I left it at the end of last week). I know they care, and I love them all. But damn it, I want to WALK.

     
     
196. on 05 Feb 2017 at 2:08 am196 Sims

     Hi Kristen you give me hope. I also got a plate and eleven screws. The plaster cast made me in such excruciating pain before and after surgery. My pcp said I developed ischemia from the cast being too tight. My surgeon laughed at the woke thing. He cut the cast off, soon after surgery cuz I was hollering like never before. He didn’t give me other options. My mother that had the same surgery bimalleolar fracture of ankle was give just an air stirrup ankle brace after surgery. Lucky her. I chose to wear same thing as I can’t handle the boot. I can’t get my foot in all the way and it’s just so heavy and painful. My doctor gave one look at air brace and deemed it worthless. I’m just so confused. I can’t survive the boot, especially sleeping with it and my mother healed beautifully with just air brace. Why shouldn’t I? Why can’t doctors order air brace for nighttime at least. I definitely feel like it’s holding my ankle well

     
     
197. on 05 Feb 2017 at 6:59 am197 Vicky

     A was in cast last year for 8 months last year with 5 breaks in leg.. A got boot on after that for another 3 months. A removed the boot and started to walk about 3 weeks before a went back. There wasn’t a problem with me doing this as my surgeon said the more you walk on a broken bone the quicker it heals cause then blood flows through the bone and knits together.. since then iv now broke my ankle on the other leg and been in boot for 3 weeks. A weight beared on it after 4 days without crutches while taken pain relief and also removed boot at night but never went into a deep sleep cause you are aware of it! weight bearing is the way to go for a quicker healing process.. a will say always go by what your doctor has advised tho because they haven’t got a medical degree for nothing and also if pins are involved it’s totally different advice from no pins and depending how many breaks you have and where they are!!! So be careful guys!!

     
     
198. on 09 Feb 2017 at 3:51 am198 Carla

     Hi all
     What a joy this blog has been to read although everyone seems to have suffered and is getting through it really help to realise I’m not alone be in the problems I’m facing.
     I broke my ankle in two places just over two weeks ago was out walking our dog and his lead got tangled around my ankle and down I went landing with the double break and complete dislocation. I had surgery the following morning (15 days) ago a plate and 5 screws put in place. Was discharged on crutches wearing the dreaded boot the following day and told that I could 50% weight bear, and I must say getting up and down the stairs on my bum proved much easier than crutches also had the problem that the dog goes for the crutches however was given a two wheeled Zimmer frame which he is fine with and it’s easier to carry things around as I’ve attached a bag to the front. If it so two weeks in I was back at the hospital for progress X-ray and to have stitches removed and what a joy that was. Only some stitches removed as wounds not healing well given strong antibiotics and then the bomb shell. I have to have more surgery tomorro. The ligament is insecure leaving to much of a gab so best to go in and secure it now and put another screw in well I’m sure you can imagine how mu I’m looking forward to that. Sleeping in the boot has been the worst thing for me I’m a restless sleeper so keeping the boot on st night to prevent any mishaps and to be honest it hurts more if the boot is off at night

     
     
199. on 24 Apr 2017 at 8:20 am199 Jenni

     I broke my fibula and fractured tibia one month ago. Sent home from ed with back slab (3 in a day) they had no idea how to apply, it was folded in edges digging into break. Sent home and told to get cruches at chemist on way home. What a joke 60 yrs old overweight. 8 casts and one operation after 12 days to screw and plate then plaster over staples. Sadistic. A month on staples out lots of swelling still. Moon boot constantly rubs the wound. I see on here many have been advised it ice. Will try that tonight. And like many am thankful for all the comments here. I can’t sleep in boot have it on and off all day the heat is pretty intense but at least the drug induced hives have stopped. They were in places I didn’t know I had and also had me peeing every 1/2 hour. Now to heal 8 weeks with boot and no weight bearing.

     
     
200. on 22 May 2017 at 10:34 am200 Cyndy

     I broke my ankle in 3 places on April 30th. I had surgery on May 1st where they placed pins and plates and reset the dislocated bone. For 2 weeks I had a fixed cast. I was then given a moon Boot and I have had that for almost a week and a half. I stopped sleeping with the moon boot on a few days ago. I don’t toss and turn much but it seems to be fine. My doctor had already told me that I could remove the boot when I was sitting or taking a shower. I broke my left ankle several years ago and was in a fixed cast for 8 weeks. I have to say the difference in the standard of care is significant and I attribute that to having a younger Doctor Who is perhaps willing to try new methodology. I am not really having much issue with the bone itself healing as far as pain. The soft tissue seems to be the most painful and the nerve regeneration is killing me. I am able to get by without pain medication during the day but I’m still requiring some sort of pain medication at bedtime. I think the reason that opinions on here vary so widely about whether or not it’s okay to sleep without the moon boot on is primarily due to differences in injuries and also the way people sleep. I don’t toss and turn much. Also I keep the boot right next to my bed and if I wake up in the night and need to go to the restroom or something I always put the boot on before using my knee scooter or wheelchair to transfer myself. I just feel like the boot is meant to prevent me from re- injuring myself. The pins and plates are already holding the fracture in place.

     
     
201. on 25 May 2017 at 12:15 pm201 Sarah

     Thx to all in this “club no one chose to join” but have been so generous and encouraging in sharing your insights on your quests to “fight the good fight” and recover gallantly! My shock has subsided considerably and I slept much better last night thanks to all your great advice! I am pediatric Occupational Therapist (OT) who has spent hundreds of hours in therapy clinics, including safely going up ladders changing over ceiling height suspension swings, with legs of step ladders precariously balanced a top gym mats. But no, the only ladder which ever fails me (5/17/17) was my own 6 foot ladder ( one leg buckled and collapsed) while I was installing a suspension bracket into my own 9 foot ceiling beam, 3 feet away from my picture window on the third floor on my condo! I credit my years as an aquatic OT for saving my live, albeit resulting my right foot NWB/ 8 week 5th metatarsal fracture, as midair, with no warning, I was able to rotate me and the ladder in towards the room in spite of the ladder heading for the window! Battle scar photos I will spare you as each ladder step bruised both inner legs as ladder was trapped between my legs as I landed on carpeted room floor. MY ADVICE - CHECK YOUR LADDERS OFTEN AND DON’T EXPECT THEM TO STAY COMPETENT FOREVER!! My ladder was a 20+ year old aluminum ladder recently returned me! I am off today to trade my rented knee walker in for a purchased one with all the features you kind folks have advised! Thanks again, Sarah

     
     
202. on 29 May 2017 at 8:17 am202 Amanda

     Good morning. My name is Amanda. 4/20 i suffered a trimallour break on my right ankle. Had surgery May 3rd. I’m currently 3 1/2 weeks post op. I has my cast removed 3 days ago and was told to start ROM. The air cast boot is TERRIBLE. It’s so heavy and it pinches. The problem i have now is that my ankle is really not the painful problem but the lower part of my foot near my toes. Everytime I’m in the boot it feels like pins are stabbing me over and over. Is this normal?? Also i have not slept longer then 45 min at a time since the accident. PLEASE HELP!!!

     
     
203. on 29 May 2017 at 11:39 am203 zooomie

     Hi Amanda,
     If you are getting pins and pinches in the lower part of the leg it could mean that not enough blood is getting to it. Ask your doctor about it and ask if self-massages will help to get a better blood flow to the lower part.

     Hang on there it will slowly get better.

     
     
204. on 29 May 2017 at 5:15 pm204 cserpent

     Hi Amanda! I think I only slept 2 hours max at a time when I had the cast/splint on. I got that off at the 3.5 week point and was put into a boot. Since I told them how difficult it was to sleep I was given a plantar fasciatis “boot” for night time. I don’t know if that would be sufficient support for your ankle but it was for my bone spur/achilles surgery. Even with that it took me another week or two to get used to it and start sleeping for longer stretches of time. I had to wear that at night until the 10 week mark. By that time I was sleeping for 5-7 hours. Tell your doctor what’s going on since it is very hard to heal when you can’t sleep. I complained LOUDLY about it since I was so tired! I was lucky that I’m a consultant and didn’t have any jobs during the first 10 weeks. I was so brain dead due to lack of sleep there is no way I could have worked.

     
     
205. on 29 May 2017 at 5:48 pm205 Amanda

     Thank you both so much for your input. I go see the Physical Therapist on Wed for my first PT. I’m hoping they can give me a lighter boot for night time. No one seems to understand the process and how difficult it is. My family and friends look at me like I’m over exaggerating. I truly hope things get better soon as I’m not sure i can take much more.

     
     
206. on 29 May 2017 at 6:16 pm206 cserpent

     Amanda - Don’t hope that they give you something easier to sleep in - insist on it! If they can’t give a medical reason why you shouldn’t sleep in something lighter then tell them you want something lighter. Be your own advocate since you’re the only one who knows what you’re going through! If you can contact your doctor by phone or email do so tomorrow.

     
     
207. on 29 May 2017 at 6:29 pm207 Amanda

     I will definitely send my doctor an email. Thank you so much for the advice. Just having people who understand the journey and long road helps TREMENDOUSLY.. i pray that I see progress soon

     
     
208. on 30 May 2017 at 8:57 am208 Amanda

     Quick Question. Did you find once you started PT things began to get a little better? I start tomorrow and just wondering what to expect..Hoping they don’t get worse

     
     
209. on 03 Jun 2017 at 4:22 pm209 Rob

     Fractured 5th mt playing frisbee…somehow jumped up and twisted to grab it..landing oddly on my left foot…crunch. Game over. Looks like a clean fracture on xray. non displaced. Can’t tell (and doc never mentioned) if it was jones or not. .somewhere in that area though.. no pain really. I did wake up one night with amazing burning feeling on top of foot…haven’t had that now after about 1 week since injury. Crutches and air boot thing. Fun summer! I just open my boot up at night a little, but i don’t take it off. If i took it off, i think i’d at least wrap it up or something. Reading on the webs, there is a lot of varying treatments it would seem. If only there was a pill you could take that heals bones overnight!

     
     
210. on 21 Jun 2017 at 9:09 am210 Cyndy

     Update: I slept without a boot starting approx 3 weeks post surgery. I am now 7 weeks post surgery. Each follow up x ray has shown no movement of pins and plates, and great healing progress. I was released to drive (right foot) 10 days ago, and allowed to walk in my boot at that time, so approx 5 1/2 weeks post op. Again, I don’t toss and turn, and I am a light sleeper, so it was no problem sleeping without the boot, and it helped a lot with reducing pain for sleep. I also used a tens unit on my calf area to reduce atrophy and on the bottom of my foot to speed nerve recovery, but not on site of breaks, and I think it helped reduce that burning pain quickly. I progressed quickly from a walker with boot to just the boot in 24 hours, then from boot to a ankle brace alone, just 2 days ago. My ankle was broken in 3 places, multiple pins and plates were inserted. So, I think the sleeping without a boot might depend on your sleeping habits, but I was fine. I also used a red laser that was supposed to be for cosmetic uses at home, to help speed soft tissue injuries. The thing is, that laser is about $600 and a tens unit from Amazon is only about $40, so i wouldn’t have used the laser if I didn’t already have it. The tens unit was a huge help.

     
     
211. on 26 Jul 2017 at 3:31 pm211 Sam

     I came up with my own solution. After two weeks I only put on the inner wrapper with the wedges.

     by the way I’m in week 3 and I haven’t done surgery, do you guys no if I should insist on op or should I accept the tendon would heal itself as my doctor suggests?

     
     
212. on 26 Jul 2017 at 5:47 pm212 agnesatr

     Sam,
     Did your doctor do imaging to see the gap size of your rupture? If you did not have large gap after rupture and you are placed on early weight bearing and early mobilization protocol, non-op can yield almost the same results as op. One needs to be a good candidate for it, be placed in a cast or a boot in plantar flexion position very soon after rupture and follow one of the modern protocols though (according to stats in the latest studies). You can check out my blog: agnesatr. I have very detail description of my non-operative journey with some links to resources that helped me along the way. Good luck with your recovery.

     
     
213. on 27 Jul 2017 at 2:43 pm213 Sam

     Thanks agnesatr, I’ll check out your blog. My doctor in Austin Hospital, Melbourne didn’t do any imaging and just visually examined my leg. When I insisted on some sort of scan his reply was “we are not going to waste the tax payers money”. His diagnosis was I have full rupture and a non-op procedure is going to work. I’m just not sure if I should trust the guy. I’m an engineer myself and when I want to trouble shoot an issue first thing I do is gather as much information I can. I know this is a totally different thing but I was just surprised to see these guys have one size fit all method.

     
     
214. on 04 Aug 2017 at 7:03 pm214 Nadia

     I am now 10 days post op from a left Achilles rupture. The moonboot is killing me. I have excruitiating pain imminating from my left hip which basically renders sitting a near impossibility. My lower back muscles have spasmed. I’ve been taking endone and diazepam for near on two weeks. This is no way to live. I know it won’t last forever but the hip pain is dabilitating! Has anyone else had this?

     
     
215. on 05 Aug 2017 at 3:52 pm215 Stuart

     Nadia - do you have an even up for the other foot? If not then this will help with the hip pain. I also had the hip pain when walking in the boot but I could put up with it and did not use the even up. Google even up and see what you find. There have been lots of people here use them and could point you in the right direction.

     
     
216. on 19 Aug 2017 at 9:18 am216 Sonia Pinner

     Bn in a cast for 8 weeks. Bn diagnosed with nonunion on my fibula. Having pain again all over without boot on while sleep, or tryn 2 sleep. Thinkn i might sleep with boot on 2nite. What a great site, loving the read on every1s input. Deffently helps knowing otha peoples issues. THANKYOU

     
     
217. on 19 Aug 2017 at 9:20 am217 Sonia Pinner

     P.s. in boot 4 anotha 6-8 weeks. Not sure what the specialist will do if it dont heal. Any ideas?

     
     
218. on 25 Aug 2017 at 12:52 pm218 Dawn

     2 wks post Haglund’s bump and spur removal.
     No problems with boot during day but the last 3 nights the pain in my heel has driven me mad. The boot is so uncomfortable and so I have slept without boot on overnight. Hope I don’t have repersussions.

     
     
219. on 11 Sep 2017 at 11:05 pm219 IGnatius T Foobar

     I’m just shy of 6 weeks post op after a completely dislocated ankle combined with trimalleoral fracture (read: mega ouchies). Doc just switched me from the cast to the boot today, and said sleep with it for the first night then I can try sleeping without it. After reading some of these messages I’m thinking it might make more sense to sleep with it on but loosened.

     
     
220. on 18 Oct 2017 at 4:21 pm220 Mallori A Kerr

     I was just diagnosed with a stress fracture of the 5th metatarsal and a muscle strain. I haven’t been able to sleep in the boot. To amount of pressure on the fracture site is eminence and I have to take the boot. The bed is big enough I don’t kick my boyfriend nor does he kick me. I feel a little pain when I wake up and sit at the edge of the bed but I expected that. I’m hoping to have the ok for no boot at bed time or pain pills for at home if I must wear it even at rest.

     
     
221. on 26 Oct 2017 at 3:33 pm221 Penny

     Hi.
     This blog is helpful, there is something comforting in hearing that others understand the physical and mental stress of this kind of recovery. I got a spiral break in my right fibula on September 23, was in a fibreglass cast until 2 days ago, I was moved to a boot and was told to start partial weight bearing as well as physio. I am going to sleep with it as I am so scared of reversing any healing I’ve done, but this morning I took the boot off to finally give that part of my leg a cleaning and an airing…wtf, ouch!! I am shocked at the pain intensity from the slightest movement without the support of either cast, after four weeks is this normal? The surgeon said I have been good at NWB and healing to date, so should it hurt this damn much? I have been trying to remain positive, but the thought of normal walking without pain being farther off than I have been hoping for is beyond depressing. Anyone?
     Thanks and good healing to all.

     
     
222. on 12 Apr 2018 at 10:05 pm222 Rae

     I fractured my two left metatarsal bones about a month ago today. I was given a shoe at the ER till I saw my dr 2 weeks later. At that time a I got a regular walking boot with velcro straps. I am allowed to walk on it for a hit at times..but he never stated if I had to take it of at night. I knew the showering I had to and the ace bandage wrap. I can walk for a long time with the boot..no pain.I kinda walk on my heel till I have to redress and ect… My question is..can I take off the boot at night!!?? That simple..lol

     
     
223. on 01 May 2018 at 10:05 pm223 Maryanne

     Hello, I hope some of you are still active and can give me some guidance. What a wonderful resource this is to know I am not alone!

     My situation is I have a partially torn achilles. My ortho doc injected it about a week ago with PRP. He is very well respected and has successfully treated other injuries of mine.

     I am also in a boot and herein lies my problem. I have had little education about how to use the boot and have probably done everything wrong.

     I have taken it off to drive, taken it off at night and even stupidly went a day without wearing it at all. Part of the problem lies with the fact I initially saw another doctor who put me in the boot and then switched to the doc who injected the PRP. Hence, the lack of coordination in care.

     So, have I wasted any benefit from the PRP by misusing the boot? Also, I am trying simultaneously to lose some extra weight that I can’t help but feel is putting a lot of stress on my body. But, is this the time to be cutting back on calories?

     Also, I am caregiver to my old parents who live on my second floor. So, I am up and down the stairs, a lot! Ah, I am a mess. Please advise if you can. Much thanks.

     
     
224. on 17 May 2018 at 3:54 am224 Melody

     Hello to anyone still on here. I had a bike accident a bit over a month ago went to the ER they did and x-Ray and they told me it was just a sprain and nothing was broken but still too swollen to move or put any pressure on so I was then put in a splint. My pain increased and I couldn’t sleep so went to a different ER and they did X-rays, CT scans, MRI, and an ultrasound. Turns out that I have an occult tibia fracture. I was put in another splint with instructions to go to an orthopedic doctor. The doctor my insurance sent me to was very rude, said she only received my X-rays (which didn’t show the fracture) and didn’t see reason to see me. I had the results from my previous hospital visit so, reluctantly told me she had no choice but to see me. She reviewed my scan results and said ok yeah it says you fractured but it’s very small I’m sure we can just order you a boot put me back in my splint and I received my boot two weeks later, now I’ve been in a boot for 2 days but it’s nearly impossible for me to sleep in it since I have a sore right on my heel and so I don’t wear it to sleep. I’ve been pretty nervous sleeping without any support since I spent a month with the splint on but all the comments have helped so much. Thank you all and I’m amazed so many people can help each other like this.

     
     
225. on 28 May 2018 at 1:53 am225 AniYah

     I broke my ankle ( fibula ) skating with my daughter! She fail and pulled me down with her! At the moment it happened there was excruciating pain. I received a soft cask from the emergency room. 3 days later my pain was very mild and the doctor placed a boot on my leg and said 9/10 I will heal
     Without surgery because my bone didn’t move! I am currently ending day 8 and tonight will be my first full night sleeping without my boot! I took a nap with the boot off and it felt so good! I currently don’t have any pain besides the pain to the touch! I’ve been taking whole herbs such as Irish moss, bladderwrack, And burdock root! I’m also 100% Vegan getting ready to transition to plant based! I’m healing pretty fast! All Praises To The Most High Yah

     
     
226. on 05 Jul 2018 at 2:39 pm226 cb

     Fell about 3 weeks ago, thought it was nothing more than a sprain - swelling went down within a day and bruising cleared a few days later, there was little to no pain and only felt it after walking a while.
     finally went for X Rays about 2weeks later 6/29 and indeed had fractured 5th metatarsal went to Dr. 7/2 put me in the boot, Non-Weight Bearing 6-8 weeks. I can take off in shower/sleeping, but what if I’m just sitting around ?

     
     
227. on 30 Jul 2018 at 7:12 pm227 Michelle

     14 days post-op from a complete Achilles tendon rupture I was in my cast for 4 days at 4 days post-op they put me in a boot and my surgeon told me that I needed to wear the boot all the time with the exception of showers.. this injury occurred over a year ago and the first orthopedic doctor that I was seeing try conservative approach for what he said was a partial rupture I’ve already worn this boot for 9 months last year.. my orthopedic doctor finally sent me to a specialist who said that my injury was now over a year old and it was going to be very hard to give me complete movement like I had before injury because the injury was so old and after two MRIs they determined that it was a complete ruptureI am now 12 days post-op from surgery and I was told to wear the boot all the time except to shower however my foot is so swollen and it burns and tingles and feels hot to the touch it feels like my leg is going to pop out of my boot I called my doctor and he called me in a prescription for muscle relaxers. they helped some but I still not can get any good sleep because the pain is so great with the boot on I feel like if I take the boot off to sleep I will at least get some kind of relief has anybody slept with their boot off this soon after surgery 12 days?

     
     
228. on 10 Aug 2018 at 8:00 pm228 Zenthia

     I had a displaced fibula fracture on 7/21/18 and surgery with a plate and 8 screws 6 days later. I got the cast off 10 days after that. They gave me a boot and said keep it on unless resting including sleeping. I cannot sleep in this thing. I bought a one piece plastic semi rigid ankle splint that has a base for my foot and ankle supports and I use that wrapped with a ace bandage at night. It keeps my foot in proper position without being cumbersome to sleep in. I figure as long as the ankle is splinted and immobilized at night I should be good.

     
     
229. on 28 Oct 2018 at 2:45 pm229 holly

     Other than safety, what’s the benefit of wearing a boot at night or at rest? I have 8 weeks in a boot for a torn achilles. I can walk just fine but need to allow time to heal. When I sleep or sit for a long time, my tendon really starts to throb. So - my Q: is it important to keep my foot neutral (instead of relaxing w toes pointed down) at night? When I walk w the boot, I also feel my tendon hurt sometimes. I’m trying to figure out if the boot is making it better or worse.
     *** And my dr said a strassburg sock is a great option. Same thing for me, though - my tendon starts hurting after about an hour.

     
     
230. on 03 Nov 2018 at 7:18 pm230 Barb

     Now 5 months out from micro fracture of 5th metatarsal (prefracture). Dancing mishap 2 minutes 1st doc took two months for mri. Meantime put me in hard orthotic. Told him foot rolls over to injury site. He told me to try anyway. Not paying attention 15 minute use caused reinjury. Finally my continued complaint of pain. Did mri and found prefracture. Gave me moon boot and told me I could walk in it. Second doc said no weight bearing st all. in wheelchair 3 months. He kept doing xrays instead of mri. Finally after seeing mri gave me moon boot but told me I could walk on it. Mri shows marrow is not solid. Shows stress reaction. Second doc said no weight bearing so finally last month got bone stimulation machine. Was taking prolia for bones. It can interfere with bone remodeling. I am almost 70 with oesteoporous Endo has me on forteo which increases bone So frustrated. I found this site because I wear moon boot but was not told to wear sleeping. Told doc I move a lot in my sleep and was afraid I would keep foot from knitting at night. INow asking for a further image to see where I am at. Question. Do you all recommend orthopedic doc rather then podiatrist in complex case and also does it matter at this point if I wear boot at night to sleep. Feel I need more info to determine what to do now worried about non weight bearing for so long. Atrovy of calve muscle and general leg deconditioning. Not good for bone or muscle. Do I still ice with kryocuff. Spend a lot of time with foot ups do in bed. Also is there a site you recommend that may address my issues more

     
     
231. on 17 Dec 2018 at 6:51 pm231 Derek MIller

     I just found out I have Jones fracture, 3 days before leaving for vacation, oh joy.

     Doctor said surgery required because if you don’t you can have complications including the bone dying yUK

     I have to go in two days to meet surgeon, have walking boot and crutches, I feel stranded in my house already on day 1.

     Does anybody drive with their boot?

     
     
232. on 17 Dec 2018 at 6:57 pm232 cserpent

     Sorry to hear that Derek! I tried driving with my boot, very briefly. It doesn’t work well at all since you can’t flex your ankle.

     
     
233. on 11 Jan 2019 at 10:54 pm233 D J Blackmore

     I was wearing clip pedals for the first time on a bicycle. I stopped behind a group of people and unclipped out of one cleat, but I had lost momentum, so even as I was trying to unclip from the pedal, the bike was falling with me. I watched my foot twist and break as I fell. Even before I hit the ground I knew it was broken. Now, I know from a good source that a person has about twenty seconds before irreparable damage is done to the soft tissue, so I took my limp foot and straightened it back into place. Unfortuntely it wasn’t the dislocation I was hoping against all hope for. With a broken fibula, chipped tibia and a lot of soft tissue damage, I was given 3 hours of surgery, and had an internal fixture of plate and screws. After two weeks with a cast I am now wearing a boot and using crutches. This is week three. I’ve been told 6 weeks strictly NWB and I guess I learn to walk again after that. In a week we go to Holland to see my first born grandchild. Negotiating the terminal with a wheelchair and crutches will be a challenge. Facing the days with more optimism than I did at the outset.
     D J Blackmore
     Author

     
     
234. on 16 Mar 2019 at 3:52 pm234 birdbones74

     A little trick Ive used and recommend to sleep at night is get a big box and put a pillow in it to elevate and protect your foot. This will also keep it from getting caught on blankets and getting kicked by spouces ing the middle of the night.

     
     
235. on 05 Apr 2019 at 7:21 pm235 2timeoffender

     I broke every bone in my ankle 3 years ago while skateboarding. I received 12 screws and 2 plates. It was a long recovery of about a year. I was convinced I would never run again(something I really enjoy doing), but by the time I had fully healed, I was able to do a 6 day hike through the Himalayas, and felt good the whole way. A few days ago I got an avulsion fracture on my foot(the same foot in which the ankle was broken). Now here I am again chilling in a boot, crutches by my side. Quite a blow to my pride I must say, but with the right amount of ice, elevation, and boot compression anything is possible. I wanted to advise anyone with as serious of an injury that I experienced to work hard on eating healthy and taking care of your body(exercise,etc). There are really good workouts videos on YouTube for all sorts of disabilities. The better you can keep up with your health, the faster you’ll be back to normal when you can walk again. Best of luck to everyone!

     
     
236. on 06 May 2019 at 12:22 pm236 Sharron

     I fractured my ankle spiral of the fibula and a commuted spiral of the tibia. I had surgery 10 days after Two plates and 14 screws. I have been NWB for 10 weeks After the surgery. It was two weeks in the surgical cast four weeks in a fibre cast in four weeks in the boot. I also use a bone growth stimulator daily starting 4 days post surgery. I’m still in the boot but starting physio to get back ROM and starting weight bearing. I use an aircast cryo-cuff every 2 to 3 hours for 20 minutes every day for the swelling, it feels wonderful. I am so used to sleeping in a cast now that I can’t imagine sleeping without the boot on not just for fear of injury but also comfort. So silly I know. It was great reading everyone’s journey and best of luck to all of you.

     
     
237. on 15 May 2019 at 10:06 am237 Laurie Garcia

     Well my husband has broken his ankle in 2 places went to ER on Mothers day put him in soft cast then yesterday went to ortho and when they took it off and seen that he had fracture blisters but said he has to have plate and screws in ankle but have to clear up blisters im concerned i have never had to go thru this before they popped them drained them then gave him a aircast boot to wear never gave any instructions when to wear it or sleep with it he woke up this mornin with excruitiating pain so i took it off hes resting peacefully should i leave boot on him at night or take it off this is a whole new exp for us please let me know help me

     
     
238. on 19 Jun 2019 at 10:32 am238 Josef Woodman

     Thank you for this great forum. I am only a few days into a boot, the result of a ruptured Achilles tendon. I can already see from the comments on this form that I have been grossly overdoing it not following the RICE protocols. I am very active and also prone to deep depression I’m not breaking a sweat daily. At the same time I see from the comments on this forum the alternative is even worse. I just have to learn to take it easy be an invalid for a bit and heal up right. Thanks so much!

     
     
239. on 25 Jun 2019 at 3:26 am239 Nicky Kline

     Does anyone else on this forum feel their bones are rubbing against together ? Have any of you put slight pressure on the affected foot and heard a slight snap ? I just got the air pressurized boot for my broken ankle. I broke my fibula. It went all the way through and the swelling is horrendous.

     
     
240. on 06 Jul 2019 at 2:20 pm240 Craig Z

     Had a total ankle joint replacement 4weeks ago after having bone on bone in joint. Broke ankle 15 years ago and several surgeries later was fine. But liking to walk a lot and getting older things wore out. Finally decided to go and have the total joint replacement with the STAR procedure. Went to a good doctor in Reno and had the procedure done in two hours time. They put me in a soft cast and went back in two weeks had stitches removed then into a boot. Was had to sleep with the boot on at first, was had to listen to wife telling me to leave it on at night. Took the front plate out and loosed straps for several nights. Still having thoughts about having boot on while I’m sleeping. Doctors assistant and therapist says it’s better to leave on at night and this is a good website for different options.

     
     
241. on 15 Jul 2019 at 10:34 pm241 Sharron

     Finally six months after my fractured fibula and tibia the doctor finally said the words I dreamt of hearing “you’re healed”. Of course being healed is not the same as being back to normal. I continue to go to physio twice a week and I’m taking it slow. I can walk 1km. I still use the cryocast for swelling but it has settled some and not as bad. My ROM is still not back and I use a cane when required. It’s progress.

     Craig my first 4 weeks in the boot I was only allowed to remove it for showering and was NWB. Are you NWB?

     
     
242. on 06 Aug 2019 at 6:07 pm242 Veikko

     Hi guys!

     I read almost every comment here and I learnt so much from you.

     I had full Achilles Tendon rapture 13 days ago. I went to the doctor the following day and a x-Ray scan was done on the same day that confirm a full complete Achilles Tendon rapture. A day after the scan I was operated by a very experienced specialist and a cast was applied to the leg and the feed in the theatre. A cast was then removed yesterday and was replaced by with the Moon Boot. Today is my first night with the boot and I decided to sleep without it on.

     Having read your comments above few minutes, I will not make so much movements in the bed tonight and from tomorrow I will sleep with my Moon Boot on. There seem to be a very high risk in sleeping without a Moon Boot the first few weeks. I am even afraid to take a shower without a Moon Boot.

     Please share more insight information regarding this.

     Regards,

     Veikko.
     Windhoek, Namibia.

     
     
243. on 26 Feb 2020 at 11:28 pm243 paula

     I am quite small (about 105 lb). The knee on my right leg, with the pins and screws in the foot, is bad. The boot seems incredibly heavy, and I just cannot sleep with it on. It is also exacerbating the pain in my knee. I have opted to take the boot off for sleeping (I am in my 5th week), but I am afraid I am bending my foot the wrong way or something because some mornings I wake up with a lot of pain in the mid-foot are where all the pins are. I feel like I’m stuck between a rock and a hard space. Any suggestions or input from people?

     
     
244. on 01 Jul 2020 at 3:40 am244 Harriet

     Hi, I have thoroughly enjoyed reading all of your posts and have been in a similar position to quite a few of you.

     Left the doctors without asking enough questions and when I tried to call back to ask them someone at the fracture clinic said he doesn’t want me wasting the doctor’s time!

     Anyway, I broke my 5th metatarsal doing a home workout video with no trainers on, I have a sprain of the ankle too. I was told that I can weight bear as long as the pain allows and I have to wear the boot 24/7 for a minimum of 3 weeks (unless showering or for some air). He then said that the boot was just for my comfort though. This seems contradictory as now I’m not in any pain, do I still need to sleep with the boot on? Should I try walk on it? If there is pain I put the boot back on? I don’t really know what I’m meant to be doing when I ease myself out of the boot there was little explanation of anything. Any advice is much appreciated!

     
     
245. on 19 Jul 2020 at 6:28 am245 RugbyWannabe

     Hi all,
     Thanks for all your posts. I fully tore my Achilles at Rugby training went to the local clinic and they confirmed it with pinch test. Then sent me to the hospital where they put my leg in a cast and said come back 2 weeks later for a Moonboot so I did. I got home later that day and fell off my knee scooter, to catch myself I stepped out with my injured foot (Moonboot) and I heard and felt that popping sound again. Because I was so used to the robust and sturdiness of the cast in that moment I wasn’t thinking. There is still Ankle movement in the Moonboot, so I’m back at step one elevate and ice. When your like this you feel so depressed and defeated I just cried and screamed.
     So yea that’s all I wanted to say.
     Stay safe, stretch and warm up.

     
     
246. on 02 Dec 2020 at 8:40 pm246 Jurisdoc

     At the beginning of October I fell and fractured by fibia and fibula. Needless to say, it has been the worst thing that I have experienced in my life. I had to have a trauma surgeon perform my surgery due to the nature of the fractures, and have a plate and pins in my foot. Post surgery I wore a soft cast for two week, followed by a hard cast for four weeks. Today I finally received my air cast boot. Can you say HEAVY!!!! It feels like I am carrying around a ton of bricks. Given that I have already lost tons of weight and all of the muscle in my leg, I am very nervous the effect that this air cast boot is going to have on my knee and the rest of my leg. My leg and hip already hurt from all the elevating. I am super nervous about sleeping with this clunky thing tonight. On the advice of someone else that has experience ankle surgery, I plan on ordering a lighter boot with support on the sides from Amazon to sleep in at night and wear my air cast boot during the day. Wish me good luck! 2020 is the WORST!!!!

     
     
247. on 06 Jan 2021 at 3:51 am247 Jennifer T

     Thankyou to all who have contributed to this site - it has been so helpful to hear of other people’s experiences & reassures me that one day this may be a memory. Sustained a trimalleolar ankle fracture 13th December, had open reduction with plate & screws next day. Had cast on 1 week, new cast on another 2 weeks, which is now removed. Am finding the boot heavy, clunky & painful. Leave it off for washing & if resting with my leg elevated. Still non weight bearing which is nothing compared to what many of those on this site have had to endure. Dr has told me to do range of movement exercises but it’s painful. My surgical wounds are scabby now but the boot aggravates them so am going to wear a soft cotton sock tonight inside the boot. After reading some of the stories on this site I loosened the boot straps for sleeping & it helped a little.

     
     

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