Okay, so you have injured your foot or ankle and have been told by your podiatrist that you need to wear a moon boot (cast) for 6 weeks… How are you going to last not wearing the perfect shoe to compliment your outfit? Or worse still tempting fate by continuing to wear your stiletto Louboutins? We have the answers for you! (Rule number 1 – don’t make it worse by blinging it out like Jesse J)
Moon boots or cam walkers are commonly prescribed for the treatment of fractures and serious soft tissue injuries of the foot and ankle. The average treatment time is 6 weeks however it could vary depending on the severity of the injury. They look like a ski boot, have a rocker sole which aids in walking and may have air pockets in the lining which inflate to keep the foot/ankle still. More importantly, your foot and ankle will be comfortable while healing.
The initial reaction from patients in our clinic is generally one of fear and deep seated dread at the thought of wearing a moon boot for 6 weeks. However, trust us when we say they are a much better option than a permanent cast, or worse still, surgery! Moon boots can be removed to sleep, shower and drive your car (depending on your injury), and are relatively low risk compared to other options.
So if you end up being fitted with a moon boot, how are you going to last the distance? Take a deep breath and relax, we’ve compiled some TWH tips to keep you on trend and reduce the risk of injuring yourself further –
1. Wear a boot or higher pitched shoe on the other foot that has a similar height to the moon boot. This will keep you stable and put less strain on your knees, hips and lower back (plus hooray, no flats!). Wedged sneakers and midi-heeled boots are always good options, like these beauties from Beau Coops – 
Linder boots by Beau Coops – Shop Linder on The Shoe Equation
2. Stretch your good leg regularly! Concentrate on stretching the calf muscles and hamstrings. Your good leg will be taking more of the load during this period and stretching will decrease soreness and the potential of overuse injury
3. Don’t jump straight back into heels after your treatment is finished – Hooray, you have made it through your treatment time! Understandably so you are keen as mustard to get those Jimmy Choo’s back on pronto. However, you may need to hold off a little longer before you can do this. You will most likely have to stagger your time in dress shoes and choose cushioned and stable shoes to transition. Also an excuse to grab those Yeezys you’ve been eyeing off the past few months…
4. Be guided by your podiatrist! You treatment time and recovery will vary greatly depending on the severity of your injury. You will get better, but patience and good shoe choices will make your journey easier
Good luck and may the shoe Gods be with you.
E&E
