Custom-fitted moon boot walkers for faster, safer recovery

You can buy a boot directly, but the size, boot height (tall vs short) and strap tension all affect how well it protects the injury and how comfortable it is to wear for weeks at a time. Andrew will confirm you've got the right boot for your specific diagnosis and fit it properly, rather than guessing from a sizing chart.

It depends on the injury. Tall boots extend up the lower leg and are generally used for ankle fractures, moderate-to-severe ankle sprains, and Achilles tendon injuries. Short boots suit foot injuries like metatarsal fractures or plantar fasciitis where the ankle doesn't need to be immobilised. Andrew will confirm which is appropriate based on your diagnosis.

This varies a lot by injury and how it's healing — anywhere from two to eight weeks is common. Andrew will give you a rough timeframe at your fitting and reassess as you progress, rather than a fixed rule that doesn't account for how you're actually recovering.

Generally not if it's on your right foot, or on your left foot in an automatic if it affects your ability to react quickly — check with your insurer too, as some won't cover you while wearing one. Andrew can talk through what's reasonable for your specific situation.

Sometimes it's recommended, sometimes not — it depends on the injury and what your surgeon or Andrew has advised. Follow the specific guidance you're given rather than a general rule, since over- or under-immobilising can both slow recovery.

Reduced movement and immobilisation from any boot or cast does carry some increased DVT risk, particularly with additional risk factors like recent surgery, long periods of inactivity, or a personal history of clots. Andrew will flag this at your fitting if it's relevant to you, and simple things like ankle pumps within the boot and staying mobile where possible help reduce the risk. Seek urgent medical attention for calf swelling, pain or redness.

Most CAM boots are designed to be removed for showering and, where advised, for sleeping — that's one of the main advantages over a plaster cast. Andrew will confirm what's appropriate for your injury, since some fractures need more consistent immobilisation than others.

We keep common sizes in stock and can usually fit you on the spot at your appointment. Call ahead if you'd like us to confirm your size is available before you come in.

The boot itself is a retail product, but the fitting is usually done as part of a physiotherapy consultation, which HICAPS on-the-spot claiming applies to the same as any other appointment. Check with your fund regarding cover for the equipment itself.