So, you have broken a bone! Why is it so important to wear a cast or boot for the entire of your recommended time (usually minimum of 4 weeks)?
Fractures are due to direct trauma such as a blow to the body, or indirect trauma such as a fall. Depending on what bone you have broken, your time in the boot/cast can range anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks+!
There a 4 stages of bone healing:
- Haematoma Formation (Days 1 to 5)
- Fibrocartilaginous Callus Formation (Days 5 to 11)
- Bony Callus Formation (Days 11 to 28)
- Bone Remodeling (Day 18 onwards, lasting months to years)
Without proper immobilisation, this bony healing process may not occur, or may be slowed down. As annoying as it can be to wear a cast or boot for 6 weeks, it’s really important to avoid impacting your health long term.
If you would like further information, come on in and talk to one of our physiotherapists. Here at Fix It Physiotherapy we are able to help with all you boot fitting needs and even some selected wrist casting requirements.