Moon Boots
Moon boots (or CAM walkers) hold the ankle at a 90-degree angle to the leg and can be used as an alternative to a cast and crutches.
Most often, moon boots are used to treat bone fractures or ligament tears. They might be used for severe tendonitis and chronic mild soft tissue injuries which have not responded to more conservative treatments. Moon boots will also sometimes be used post-surgically and can be very helpful to control post-surgical swelling and improve healing speed.
At Advance Foot Clinic Podiatry, we stock various sizes of moon boots for patients who have been recommended to wear one. If this sounds like you, and you wish to purchase your own moon boot, book a fitting appointment with your podiatrist today.
What are moon boots?
A moon boot is also known as a ‘CAM boot’, or a ‘CAM walker,’ which stands for “Controlled Ankle Motion”. As the name implies, CAM boots/moon boots are designed to reduce motion through the ankle joint and offload weight that usually rests on the smaller joints of the foot. Moon boots are used as an alternative to a cast and crutches after a serious injury to the foot or ankle.
Moon boots hold the ankle in a neutral position: 90 degrees to the leg. They have a flat, rigid foot bed along with a rocker sole. Because of this, the boots immobilise foot joints and reduce pressure on the bones, ligaments, and tendons of the foot and ankle while still allowing for a relatively normal walking gait. As a result, most people find that a moon boot can drastically reduce pain. It can help them get around without limping or the use of crutches.
A big advantage of moon boots compared to casts is that they can be removed for bathing and have washable liners.
What conditions require moon boots?
The most common type of injury that requires a moon boot are bone fractures, severe tendon damage and ligament tears. These injuries can include, but are not limited to:
- Plantar fascia tear
- Achilles tendon tear or partial rupture
- Grade 2 and 3 ankle sprains
- Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction
- Non-displaced bone fractures
- Post-surgical rehabilitation
How do I get a moon boot?
It is important that you only wear a moon boot when clinically necessary, and that it is professionally fitted and monitored.
The best person to handle this is a podiatrist because they are foot experts. A podiatrist can handle lower limb injuries from start to finish including diagnosis, imaging, moon boot fitting, and rehabilitation. If your podiatrist prescribes a moon boot, they will organise one for you during your appointment.
If you think you have an injury requiring a moon boot or have been told you need one by your doctor, please call your nearest Advance Foot Clinic to arrange a moon boot fitting with one of our friendly podiatrists.
What happens when podiatrists fit moon boots?
Your podiatrist fits your moon boot and ensures it is correctly sized and adjusted. They also modify the boot internally if necessary. Often patients need extra offloading within the boot to ensure the injured structure receives maximal pressure reduction.
Your podiatrist assesses your gait in the moon boot and provides footwear advice and modifications for your uninjured limb. Wearing a moon boot can often cause an imbalance at the knee and hip joints. This might result in secondary complaints of knee, leg, hip and back pain. Your podiatrist will work with you to reduce the risk of this occurring.
How long do I need to stay in a moon boot?
Time frame for moon boots depends on a number of factors. These include injury type, location, and severity, as well as patient healing capabilities.
Your podiatrist will provide guidance on your specific injury. They will monitor your healing to ensure you do not come out of the boot too soon or too late. As a general guide, most fractures require 6–8 weeks, while some soft tissue injuries may only need complete offloading for a couple of weeks.
When you finish with the moon boot, you may still have mild symptoms, which is expected. Your podiatrist will guide you through rehabilitation exercises to safely regain muscle strength and normal pain-free function. They will also plan injury prevention strategies such as footwear changes and custom orthotics if required.
Why choose Advance Foot Clinic?
Comprehensive Care and Expertise
At Advance Foot Clinic Podiatry, we specialise in providing comprehensive care for lower limb fractures, ligament strains, sprained ankle injuries, and other injuries requiring moon boots. Each medical professional in our team is adept in the entire healing process, from initial diagnosis to post-recovery support.
Customised Fitting for Optimal Support
We understand the importance of a perfectly fitted CAM boot. Our expert podiatrists ensure each moon boot is tailored to provide support specifically for your injury, preventing further injury and promoting faster healing.
State-of-the-Art Moon Boot Technology
Utilising the latest in moon boot (CAM walker) technology, we offer boots that not only stabilise your lower leg but also enable a more natural gait, enhancing your comfort and mobility during the healing process.
Guided Rehabilitation and Injury Prevention
Our team doesn’t just fit you with a moon boot; we guide you through the entire rehabilitation journey. From advising on proper use to planning post-recovery strategies like custom orthotics, we’re dedicated to your long-term foot health.
Accessible and Convenient Locations
With clinics in Arana Hills, Bellbowrie, Chermside, The Gap, and Mount Isa, and bimonthly services in Cloncurry, getting professional care for certain injuries requiring a CAM boot is always convenient.
Friendly, Patient-Centric Approach
We pride ourselves on our friendly, patient-centric approach. At Advance Foot Clinic Podiatry, you’re not just receiving medical treatment; you’re becoming part of a community dedicated to your well-being and comfort.
What you need to know
What will it cost?
Our friendly reception team can provide you with up-to-date cost information for moon boots and fittings as well as our other podiatry services, so contact us for more information.
Where are you?
We have five podiatry clinics with moon boots available. These are located in Arana Hills, Bellbowrie, Chermside, The Gap and Mount Isa. We also service Cloncurry bimonthly.
Confidence
To book a moon boot fitting appointment, be sure to call your nearest Advance clinic. To discuss your suitability with your podiatrist, feel free to call, or you can book online here.
Take the first step towards happy and healthy feet.
Ready to give your feet the care they deserve? Book your appointment online or call us and experience our expert podiatry services at any of our six clinic locations.