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CAM walker boots (moon boots)

Been advised you may need a moon boot, or already wearing one? Here is what the boot does, how to wear it more comfortably and which warning signs need urgent care.

When should I get urgent help while wearing a boot?

Seek same-day medical care if you notice:

calf pain, swelling, warmth or redness, which can be a sign of a blood clot (deep vein thrombosis)
pain that keeps increasing or does not ease when you loosen the straps
numbness or tingling that does not ease within a few minutes of loosening the straps
a wound, blister or pressure area under the boot, especially if you have diabetes

Toes that stay pale, blue or cold after loosening the straps, or severe pain that keeps getting worse: go to an emergency department now or call 000.

Sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood or fainting is an emergency: call 000. If you are unsure where to seek care, healthdirect is available on 1800 022 222.

Book here, or go back to whoever prescribed the boot?

A doctor, hospital or fracture clinic gave you the boot: follow their plan, and ask them how long to wear it and when to come out of it. Fit, comfort or rubbing problems can be checked here; bring their instructions.
Not yet assessed, or unsure whether a boot suits your injury: book an assessment here. A possible broken bone needs medical assessment first.

What is a CAM walker boot (moon boot)?

A CAM (controlled ankle motion) walker boot is a removable walking boot that limits ankle movement and helps protect the foot or ankle while it settles. Many people call it a moon boot.

Most have a rigid frame, a padded liner, adjustable straps and a curved sole that lets you walk without bending the ankle much. Some have air cells for a closer fit, and taller or shorter versions suit different injuries.

When might a CAM walker boot be used?

A boot is one option that may be used after assessment, not instead of it. Examples include:

some stable foot or ankle fractures, when a doctor or fracture clinic advises a boot
some significant ankle injuries, when advised after assessment (see an ankle sprain that has not settled)
some tendon or bone-stress injuries, to reduce load while they settle (see shin pain and sports and running injuries)
offloading the foot after some procedures, as advised by your treating team

Possible broken bone? A boot is not a substitute for medical assessment. If you cannot bear weight, have marked swelling or deformity, or think a bone may be broken, see a GP, urgent care service or emergency department first, as imaging may be needed.

What happens when a boot is fitted?

Assessment, fitting and wearing the boot

We check whether a boot suits your injury and any advice from your doctor or fracture clinic, and discuss other options.
If a boot is suitable, we fit it and show you how to put it on, fasten the straps firmly but not too tightly, and take it off.
Wear a long, smooth sock under the liner, and check your skin each day for redness, rubbing or blisters—especially if you have diabetes or reduced feeling in your feet.
The boot’s thick sole can make one leg feel longer. A supportive shoe with a similar sole height on the other foot, or a shoe raise, may help your hips and back feel more even.
If you cannot put weight through the leg, ask your doctor about your risk of blood clots.
Whether you sleep or shower in the boot depends on the injury, so follow the advice you have been given.
Do not drive with a boot on your right foot. If it is on your left foot, check with your doctor and your insurer before driving.

Getting back into shoes

Coming out of the boot is usually gradual. How long you wear it and how you return to normal shoes depend on the injury and your progress, so follow the plan from your podiatrist, doctor or fracture clinic. Rehabilitation exercises may be part of that return.

How much does a CAM walker boot cost?

CAM walker boots are quoted separately at consultation. Before you decide, ask whether fitting, adjustments and reviews are included. See separately quoted treatment.

Common questions about CAM walker boots (moon boots)

Can I take a moon boot off?

Most CAM walker boots are removable, but when you can take one off—for sleeping, showering or exercises—depends on your injury. Follow the advice from your doctor, fracture clinic or podiatrist.

Can I drive with a moon boot?

Do not drive with a boot on your right foot. If the boot is on your left foot, check with your doctor and your insurer before driving.

How long will I need to wear a CAM walker boot?

It varies with the injury and how it responds. Your treating clinician should explain the expected plan and how you will return to normal shoes.

Clinical information sources

These sources support the general information above. Individual assessment may lead to different advice.