Controlled Ankle Motion (CAM) boots, also known as moon boots, are orthopaedic footwear designed to protect and stabilise the foot and ankle. The boot features a strong outer shell to provide stability and adjustable straps to secure the fit, keeping your foot in the correct position.
The CAM boot limits the movement of the foot or ankle to support healing from injuries like fractures, sprains, or tendon and ligament tears while allowing some walking. These moon boots are recommended and fitted by podiatrists (like our podiatry team here at Align Health Collective) to maintain proper alignment and reduce stress on the injured area.
What are CAM Boots Used for?
CAM boots are used to support and protect the foot and ankle during recovery from a variety of injuries and conditions, including:
- Plantar Fascia Tears: To immobilise the area and reduce strain during healing. Although only around 10% of patients use a CAM boot, improvement in pain at night is reported in almost half of the cases.
- Achilles Tendon Tears: To limit movement and support recovery.
- Bone Fractures and Breaks: To stabilise non-displaced fractures in the foot or ankle.
- Severe Ankle Sprains: To provide support, reduce movement, and prevent further injury.
- Tendon Ruptures and Tendonitis: To immobilise and aid healing for damaged or inflamed tendons.
- Soft Tissue Injuries: To support healing of severe bruising or ligament damage.
- Post-Surgical Offloading: To redistribute weight and protect the surgical site during rehabilitation.
How does a Moon Boot Help a Fracture or Sprain?
A moon boot helps fractures and sprains heal by stabilising the injury, reducing strain, and supporting proper recovery through a combination of immobilisation, support, and protection. Studies show CAM boots promote quicker bone healing compared to hard-soled shoes, reducing the average healing time to 7.2 weeks.
Here’s how it works:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Immobilises the Joint | Prevents unnecessary movement that could worsen the injury or pain |
| Supports the Foot | Reduces the workload on the muscles, tendons, and ligaments |
| Redistributes Weight | Reduces pressure on the injured area |
| Controls Weight-Bearing | Introduces weight slowly during healing |
| Reduces Swelling | Gentle compression eases swelling and pain during healing |
| Increases Circulation | Compression brings oxygen-rich blood to the area for faster healing |
| Protects the Foot | Keeps foot safe from bumps and knocks as it heals |
Immobilisation
The rigid structure of the boot prevents unnecessary movement of the injured bones, joints, or ligaments. This keeps the injury aligned and stable, reducing the risk of further damage and allowing tissues to heal in the correct position.
Support
The CAM boot supports surrounding muscles, tendons, and ligaments by reducing their workload. This prevents overuse or strain on these areas, and promotes faster recovery.
Weight Redistribution
The rocker sole on a CAM boot helps by promoting a natural rolling motion as you walk, which redistributes weight evenly across the foot and reduces pressure on the injured area. This design minimises strain on the foot and ankle by limiting the effort required to push off with each step, protecting the injury while still allowing safe mobility. The cushioned sole also absorbs shock, so walking is more comfortable during recovery and further supports the healing process.
Weight-Bearing Control
CAM boots allow for adjustable weight-bearing to suit the severity of the injury and the stage of healing. The boot’s rigid frame stabilises the foot, while adjustable straps secure it tightly to prevent unnecessary movement.
For partial weight-bearing, the patient can begin applying minimal pressure to the foot, guided by their healthcare provider. Removable inserts or wedges may also be used to control how weight is distributed, reducing strain on the injured area.
As healing progresses, adjustments to the boot or its inserts enable a gradual increase to full weight-bearing. This supports recovery while minimising the risk of reinjury.
Reduces Swelling
A CAM boot helps reduce swelling by applying consistent, gentle compression to the injured area. This compression limits fluid build-up, a common occurrence after a fracture or sprain. By controlling swelling, the boot alleviates discomfort, minimises inflammation, and promotes healing.
Increased Circulation
The soft, padded lining of the boot improves blood flow to the foot or ankle. Better circulation helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to the damaged tissues, which speeds up repair and helps remove waste products from the area. This process supports faster recovery.
Protection
The hard outer shell of the CAM boot protects the injured foot or ankle from accidental bumps or impacts.
What is a CAM Boot Made of?
The CAM boot is made of a rigid outer shell for stability, a cushioned inner lining for comfort, adjustable straps for a secure fit, and a rocker sole to promote natural walking and reduce pressure on the injury.
Hard Outer Shell
A rigid outer shell, often made of plastic or fibreglass, provides structural support and protects the injured area from external forces.
Inner Lining
A soft, padded inner lining, usually made of foam or other cushioning materials such as neoprene or terry cloth, provides comfort and reduces skin irritation. These materials can also help to wick away moisture, keeping the skin dry and reducing the risk of infection.
Adjustable Straps
The straps are made from durable materials like nylon or polyester webbing, chosen for their strength and resistance to wear. They feature hook-and-loop fasteners (Velcro) for easy adjustment.
Hinges
Some CAM boots have hinges that allow controlled ankle movement, enabling healthcare providers to set specific ranges of motion. This helps maintain joint flexibility and muscle strength during recovery, while preventing stiffness and atrophy.
Sole
The sole of a CAM boot is made from durable rubber or plastic that provides traction and stability while you walk.
What Types of CAM Boots are Available?
CAM boots are available in tall, short, (also known as Low and High Top CAM Walkers) and air or non-air versions, each designed to suit specific injuries and recovery needs.
Tall CAM Boots
Tall CAM boots extend up the calf and provide strong support and immobilisation for injuries such as tibia or fibula fractures, severe ankle sprains, or Achilles tendon repairs. Their height offers greater stability and protection for injuries that require more extensive immobilisation.
Short CAM Boots
Short CAM boots reach just above the ankle. They are suitable for less severe injuries, such as foot fractures, mild ankle sprains, or post-surgical recovery where full immobilisation is not required. Their lighter weight and lower profile make them more comfortable for daily activities
Air and Non-Air Versions
CAM boots are available in air (pneumatic) and non-air (standard) versions:
- Air CAM Boots: These boots feature an internal air bladder that can be inflated to provide customised compression and support. The adjustable pressure helps reduce swelling and enhances comfort during the healing process.
- Non-Air CAM Boots: Standard CAM boots lack the inflatable component, but still offer rigid support and immobilisation. They are often lighter and may be preferred when compression is not necessary.
What are the Benefits of Using a CAM Boot?
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Faster Healing | CAM boots have been proven to help accelerate healing, in comparison to wearing hard-soled shoes to minimise foot movement. |
| Everyday Convenience | The removable design allows for easy cleaning, dressing changes, and better hygiene during recovery. |
| Comfortable Fit | The boot features soft padding and adjustable straps, making it easier to wear for extended periods. |
| Improved Mobility | The rocker sole allows patients to walk with less effort compared to traditional casts, improving movement during recovery. |
| Versatility | CAM boots can be used for fractures, sprains, tendon injuries, diabetic foot ulcers, and plantar fasciitis, offering versatility for different conditions. |
| Alternative to Plaster Casts | CAM boots are more practical than traditional casts, providing comfort, flexibility, and less restriction for patients. |
Are There Risks to Wearing a CAM Boot?
While CAM boots are helpful for recovery, they can pose risks such as discomfort, muscle weakness, and balance issues if not used correctly. At Align Health Collective, your podiatrist will show you how to wear your boot to minimise these issues.
Altered Gait and Limb Imbalance
The thick sole of a CAM boot can create a limb length discrepancy, leading to an uneven walking pattern. This imbalance may cause discomfort or pain in the back, hip, or knee due to the body’s misalignment during movement.
Muscle Weakness and Joint Stiffness
Extended use of a CAM boot can result in decreased mobility and muscle atrophy. The immobilisation restricts the range of motion in the affected foot and ankle, leading to stiffness and reduced muscle strength.
Skin Irritation
Improper fitting or prolonged wear of a CAM boot can lead to skin irritation or pressure sores. It’s important to monitor the skin for any signs of redness, blisters, or discomfort and consult a healthcare professional if these occur.
CAM Boot vs Cast vs Brace
| Adjustability | Support | Comfort | Cost | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CAM Boot | Offers adjustable straps for a customised fit; can be removed for hygiene and therapy sessions | Provides strong support and immobilisation for various injuries; allows controlled movement | Features padded interiors and breathable materials; designed for weight-bearing activities. | Generally more expensive than braces, but less than surgical interventions; may be covered by insurance |
| Cast | Fixed and non-removable; requires professional application and removal | Offers maximum immobilisation; ideal for severe fractures requiring complete stability | Generally less comfortable due to rigidity; can cause itching and skin irritation | Costs vary; may be more expensive due to professional application and materials used |
| Brace | Provides adjustable support; can be easily removed and adjusted | Delivers moderate support; suitable for mild injuries or post-recovery support | Typically lightweight and breathable; allows for more natural movement | Often the most affordable option; widely available OTC |
How Long Should You Wear a CAM Boot?
Most people wear it for 2 to 8 weeks. Soft tissue injuries, like sprains, often need 2 to 4 weeks of use, while bone fractures may require 6 to 8 weeks or more, depending on how quickly the injury heals. Generally, the time you need to wear a CAM boot depends on the severity of your injury.
Your doctor will check your progress and may adjust how long you need the boot. When you stop using the boot, you should slowly start wearing regular shoes again under your doctor’s advice to avoid setbacks.
How much does a CAM Boot Cost?
CAM boots in Australia range from $89 to $280, depending on the brand, their type and features.
Are CAM Boots Covered by Insurance?
If the CAM boot is fitted during an appointment with a podiatrist, you may be able to claim the cost under private insurance policies that include podiatry and related items. Some insurers also cover costs for hiring or purchasing the boot in this case.
If the boot is purchased without seeing a podiatrist, it is generally not covered. An exception might apply if you have a referral from a GP specifying the need for a CAM boot, which may allow a claim under the GP’s provider number. Always check with your private health insurer to confirm what’s covered and any specific requirements for making a claim.
Contact Align HC today for any of your foot and lower limb needs. We’re always ready to help relieve your pain!
FAQs on What is a CAM Boot?
Can you drive with a moon boot?
Driving with a moon boot is usually not recommended because it can affect your ability to control the car safely. While no state or territory in Australia specifically bans it, Regulation 297 of the Australian Road Rules states that a driver must have proper control of their vehicle. Your doctor can advise if it’s safe for you to drive based on your injury, without wearing the moon boot.
Do you sleep with a moon boot on?
Whether to sleep with a moon boot on depends on your specific injury and recovery needs. For some injuries, it may be necessary to wear the boot overnight to keep the area stable. In other cases, removing it for sleep may be more comfortable. Speak to your doctor or podiatrist to know what’s best for you.
Can you wear a moon boot for plantar fasciitis?
Yes, a moon boot can help treat plantar fasciitis by reducing strain on the plantar fascia and allowing it to heal.
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