Orthopedic Walkers: Effect on Plantar Pressures

Short leg (SLW) and patellar tendon bearing walkers (PTBW) are orthotic appliances† which have been recently designed as alterna­ tive devices to traditional plaster cast immobili­ zation. The indications for use of lower leg walkers include severe ankle sprains, and ankle and foot fractures. Orthopedic walkers are con­ venient to use, lightweight, and removable to perform joint range of motion or inspect the ex­ tremity. Short leg walkers have been shown to be as effective as walking casts in healing stable ankle fractures, and patients treated with short leg walkers have shown significantly less edema, tenderness, and joint stiffness after six weeks of immobilization. 1 3 The authors feel that orthopedic walkers may also prove to be a beneficial alternative to traditional management of neuropathic fractures and plantar ulcer­ ations, which are commonly seen in diabetes mellitus and Hansen's disease.