About the boot

You have been given a boot to wear while your ankle or foot heals. There are many brands of boots, we call ours a Walker.

Instructions when using the boot

We will instruct you on how to use the boot before you go home. The physician will determine which instructions apply to you:

☐ You may remove the boot when resting.

☐ You may remove the boot when sleeping.

☐ You may remove the boot when washing.

☐ You may remove the boot when exercising.

☐ Do not remove the boot until instructed otherwise.

☐ Special instructions for you: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

How to put on the boot

If you have taken off the boot, you will have to put it on again correctly. First, put on a long cotton sock. The sock should fit snuggly and should not bunch.

Sit on a chair or rest your leg on a bed. Undo the straps and open the padding.
Place the boot under your leg. Put your foot in the boot and make sure your heel is flat against the back of the boot. Wrap the padding around your foot and leg.

Tighten the straps. Start with the strap closest to your toes and then move up your leg.
Use your other hand to tighten the straps so the boot fits comfortably. You should be able fit a finger under the straps once they are fastened.

If the boot feels too tight, begins to chafe or if there is uneven pressure, try to readjust the boot and straps.

How to wash while wearing a boot

If you may remove the boot when washing or taking a bath. We recommend that you sit on a chair or bath bench with your foot on a stool. Put the boot on again as soon as possible after drying off.

If you have been instructed not to remove the boot, you can cover the boot with a plastic bag when washing. Make sure the top of the bag is tightly sealed to avoid getting the boot wet.

How to clean the boot

You can clean the boot yourself when necessary. Take the boot off before cleaning it. Remove the padding and wash it at 30 degrees in a washing machine and let it air dry. You can wring out the padding in a towel to help it dry faster. Wipe down the rest of the boot using a damp cloth. Put the boot on again once it is clean and dry.

Keep your foot elevated and wiggle your toes

It is normal for your foot to swell during the day and for the boot to begin to tighten around your leg. We recommend that you take rests throughout the day. Place a pillow on a stool and rest your foot on it when sitting down. Place a pillow or duvet under your foot when lying down to ensure your foot is above the level of your heart. Wiggle your toes often to reduce swelling.

Tread carefully on wet surfaces

Note that the boot can be slippery, so be careful when walking on wet surfaces.

Contact us if the boot pinches

If the boot begins to pinch, if you begin to feel a whirring or tightening sensation, or if your leg begins to feel painful or swell, contact your general practitioner or dial 1813 to reach the medical helpline outside your general practitioner’s opening hours.

Throw away the boot when you no longer need it

The boot cannot be re-used. So, when you are done using it, throw it out.

Worth knowing

Your personal data

The Capital Region of Denmark uses the personal data you share with us when you make an enquiry. You can read more about how we use your data and your rights on our website: www.regionh.dk/hp9