Recovering from an injury or surgery often requires wearing a boot or cast to stabilize the affected area. While these devices are essential for healing, they can also cause secondary changes in your body, such as muscle imbalances, joint stiffness, or altered posture. At Unity Chiropractic Wellness, located near Grand Central Terminal in NYC, we help patients address the physical effects of wearing a boot or cast and regain full mobility post-recovery.
How Boots and Casts Affect Your Body
1. Muscle Atrophy
• When a limb is immobilized in a cast or boot, the muscles are not actively engaged, leading to a loss of strength and size over time.
• This is especially common in the calves, thighs, or arms, depending on the location of the injury.
2. Joint Stiffness
• Immobilization restricts joint movement, causing stiffness and reduced flexibility once the cast or boot is removed.
3. Postural Changes
• Wearing a boot, especially one with a raised sole, can alter your gait and posture, potentially causing discomfort in the hips, lower back, or knees.
4. Weight Redistribution
• The uninjured side often compensates for the immobilized limb, leading to overuse of certain muscles and joints.
5. Loss of Balance
• Alterations in weight distribution and muscle strength can impact your balance, increasing the risk of falls or additional strain.
6. Circulation Issues
• Prolonged immobilization can reduce blood flow, potentially causing swelling or discomfort in the affected limb.
Common Complaints After Wearing a Boot or Cast
• Back Pain: Altered posture and gait often lead to tension in the lower back.
• Hip and Knee Pain: Overcompensation on one side of the body can strain the hips and knees.
• Foot Pain: Pressure from walking unevenly in a boot can lead to discomfort in the feet or ankles.
• Muscle Weakness: Lack of activity during immobilization often results in decreased muscle strength.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help
Chiropractic care plays a crucial role in addressing the physical challenges that arise after wearing a boot or cast. At Unity Chiropractic Wellness, we take a comprehensive approach to restore balance, strength, and mobility.
1. Spinal and Joint Adjustments
• Adjustments realign the spine and joints, correcting any imbalances caused by altered posture or gait.
2. Soft Tissue Therapy
• Massage and myofascial release reduce tension and improve circulation in the affected areas.
3. Postural Assessments
• We evaluate your posture and gait to identify and correct compensatory patterns.
4. Rehabilitation Exercises
• Customized strength and flexibility exercises rebuild muscle tone and joint mobility in the immobilized area.
5. Foot and Ankle Care
• For patients recovering from foot or ankle injuries, we provide targeted care to address issues like plantar fasciitis or Achilles tension.
Tips for Recovery After Wearing a Boot or Cast
1. Start Slow
• Gradually reintroduce movement to avoid overloading weak muscles or stiff joints.
2. Stretch Regularly
• Stretch the affected limb and surrounding areas to improve flexibility and reduce stiffness.
3. Focus on Strengthening
• Engage in exercises that rebuild muscle strength in the immobilized area.
4. Maintain Proper Posture
• Be mindful of your posture while walking or standing to prevent strain on other parts of the body.
5. Wear Supportive Shoes
• Transition to footwear that offers proper arch and heel support to correct any imbalances caused by the boot.
Why Choose Unity Chiropractic Wellness?
At Unity Chiropractic Wellness, we specialize in helping patients recover fully after injuries or surgeries requiring immobilization.
• Convenient Location: 11 East 44th Street, New York, NY 10017, near Grand Central Terminal.
• Experienced Team: Skilled in treating post-injury imbalances and restoring full function.
• Comprehensive Care: Offering chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and rehabilitation exercises.
Get Back to Full Function After Injury
If you’ve recently worn a boot or cast and are experiencing discomfort or stiffness, let us help you recover. Call 917-338-7811 or book your appointment online to schedule your consultation.
At Unity Chiropractic Wellness, we’re dedicated to getting you back to feeling your best!