Northern Health CAM Walker User manual

YOUR CAM WALKER AND YOU
You have been fitted with a CAM Walker to control the alignment and reduce the
movement of the bones and joints in your lower leg and foot. Some of the most
common reasons include fractures, foot /ankle surgery, soft tissue injuries of the
ankle, and Achilles tendon repair / injury.
A CAM walker is designed to immobilise the foot
and ankle in a similar manner to a plaster cast.
However, it has the benefit of being removable
for showering and physiotherapy.
As a general rule the Walker should stay on at all
times (including in bed), except when showering,
unless otherwise instructed by your specialist or
Orthotist. Check your heel regularly for signs of
pressure if wearing the boot while sleeping.
You may find your walker a little bit difficult to
walk in at first until you get used to it. If you
have been using crutches or a stick you may
want to continue to use these for a few days until
you have adjusted
The heel height of your walker is about the same as a pair of runners. It is therefore
recommended that you wear a runner or equivalent on the other foot to try and
keep you as even and balanced as possible.
It is suggested that you wear the walker with a sock so that the sock rather than the
liner of the walker absorbs any perspiration. This will also keep your toes warm.
Your specialist / doctor will let you know how long you will need to continue wearing
the walker. You should have a review appointment with them in several weeks time
to assess your progress.
Do not drive with the walker on!
* Special wearing / weight bearing instructions:
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APPLICATION
Step 1:
Leave the liner attached to the plastic uprights. Put your leg into the walker ensuring
that your heel is right to the back and you can feel it contacting with the bottom.
Step 2:
Close the liner firmly around your calf and across the top of your foot.
Step 3:
Fasten the straps.
Begin with the strap over the middle of your foot closest to the ankle. Feed
the strap through the “D” ring and pull it firmly. Use the pads provided under
this to prevent rubbing.
Fasten the last strap across the foot
Next, fasten the strap closest to the toes.
Followed by the top strap on the leg.
Finally, fasten the remaining two traps around the leg
Step 4:
Ensure that all straps are secured firmly. They should not cause any discomfort but
need to be firm in order to immobilise your foot and ankle.
Step 5:
To remove the walker:
Undo all the straps in any order making sure that you stick the Velcro back on
itself. This prevents it from getting tangled and sticking to everything else
(i.e. clothes).
Open up the liner down the front of your leg.
Open up the liner over the foot.
Lift your leg out leaving liner attached to the plastic base and uprights.
Check with your specialist or orthotist as to how much weight you can take on the
affected side.