Rigid removable boots are usually for short term use. Not everyone will need follow up with a health worker.
Many people will be followed up by their referring doctor if they have:
- Good mobility
- Full sensation
- No skin problems.
If the person does have concerns, they should be followed up within one week.
Read on to learn more about when people benefit from follow up before returning to the referring doctor.
Question
Remember Mario?
Mario was using a rigid removable boot after surgery on his ankle. Mario has diabetes and problems with feeling in his feet.
Mario has just been fitted with his rigid removable boot.
When should he be followed up?
If you selected a, you are correct.
Mario has loss of feeling (sensation) in his feet, so he is at risk of foot wounds. He should be followed up after a week of using the rigid removable boot to make sure it is not causing any problems for him.
If you selected b, c or d, you are not correct.
A follow up after four or six weeks is too long. Mario should be followed up earlier because he is at risk of foot problems.
The doctor will also do a follow up when Mario doesn’t need the rigid removable boot any more.
Follow up after one week
Check:
- The rigid removable boot is not making any problems worse for people with skin problems or problems with feeling (sensation) in their feet.
- The rigid removable boot is fitting well, for people with swelling problems.
- The person can safely walk with the rigid removable boot if you are concerned about their balance.
Question
Remember Mario?
During Mario’s first follow up appointment, he said he is staying at home because he finds it hard to use the rigid removable boot outside.
What would you do for Mario?
Select all that apply.
If you selected a and b, you are correct.
Watching Mario walking outdoors will help to decide if he needs a walking aid for his mobility.
During his first follow up, Mario didn’t look or feel well balanced when walking outdoors. Mario’s health worker decided to assess him for a walking aid.
He now uses a walking stick to support him. He is also more confident to use his rigid removable boot outdoors and can walk to the local shop.
Question
Remember Wei?
Wei called and asked for a follow up visit because the rigid removable boot felt loose. She had lost one of the straps.
What would you do for Wei?
Select all that apply.
If you selected a and b, you are correct.
Replace the missing strap. If the rigid removable boot does not fit well after replacing the strap, replace it with a new one.
c is not correct.
You need to check before changing the size.
Follow up after six weeks
A person using the rigid removable boot longer than six weeks should be followed up with after six weeks.
During this follow up, check the rigid removable boot to see if anything is worn out or broken.
Check:
- The straps are all there and not broken
- The sole is in good condition.
After six weeks the liner will usually be dirty. Replace the liner during this follow up.
You will need to replace the rigid removable boot if it is cracked or the sole of the rigid removable boot is broken.
If the product is repaired or replaced, it must be fitted again for the person.