An orthopedic walking boot provides immobilization and support for injuries like fractures or severe sprains, promoting a controlled healing environment. Many models incorporate internal pneumatic bladders, which are inflated to provide a customized fit and deliver gentle, dynamic compression around the injured limb. These air bladders conform to the contours of the limb, accommodating changes in swelling. Learning how to properly release this air is necessary for adjusting the fit, performing hygiene checks, and safely removing the boot.
Identifying the Air Release Mechanism
The mechanism used to release air from the boot’s bladders varies, but it is located near the inflation pump or on the boot’s rigid outer shell. On many pneumatic boots, the release component is a small, recessed button positioned immediately adjacent to the larger inflation bulb. This button is designed to prevent accidental deflation. Other boot designs utilize a simple twist valve to control the air flow. This valve often resembles a small screw or cap, and users should look for a visual indicator like the word “Deflate” printed nearby.
Step-by-Step Deflation Process
Once the release mechanism is located, deflating the air bladders requires a steady, deliberate action to ensure complete air expulsion. If your boot features a small release button, you must press and hold it continuously rather than pressing it in short bursts. Maintaining pressure on this button opens the valve, allowing the compressed air to escape. For boots equipped with a twist valve, the air is released by turning the valve slowly, often labeled as the “Deflate” setting.
Holding the button or keeping the valve open for several seconds allows the pressure to drop. You will typically hear a distinct hissing sound as the air escapes, which should continue until the flow noticeably slows. To ensure all air is fully expelled, apply gentle manual pressure to the sides of the boot’s soft liner while holding the release mechanism open. This hand compression pushes any residual air out of the bladder and through the open valve. A full deflation is achieved when the liner feels completely soft and compliant, and the shell no longer presses tightly against the leg.
Reinflating the Boot For Safe Use
Because the pneumatic bladders are designed to provide dynamic support, the boot must be properly reinflated before standing or walking on the injured limb. After placing the foot back into the boot and securing the straps, locate the inflation pump, which is typically a large, prominent bulb on the front or side of the brace. The inflation process involves controlled squeezes of this pump to reintroduce air into the bladders. Pump the air until the bladders feel snug against the limb, providing firm support without causing discomfort, numbness, or tingling in the toes. The pressure is correct when the foot and ankle are securely held, eliminating unwanted movement while circulation remains unimpaired.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
One common issue is a partial deflation, where the hissing sound stops but the boot remains uncomfortably snug, often because the user released the button too soon. If this occurs, simply press and hold the release mechanism again while simultaneously applying gentle hand pressure to the outside of the boot’s liner to force the remaining air out. Another occasional problem involves a stiff or stuck twist valve that resists turning. Applying a small, consistent amount of torque should free the mechanism, but avoid excessive force that could damage the plastic component.
Unexpected air loss after reinflation can happen due to a slow leak or a valve that did not fully close. If the boot loses pressure, check that the twist valve is fully turned to the “Lock” or “Inflate” position, or ensure the release button was not accidentally depressed by clothing or an external object. If air loss is a persistent issue, the air bladder itself may be compromised, and the user should contact their medical provider or the boot manufacturer for a replacement liner or a different boot model. Changes in ambient pressure, such as during air travel, can also affect the air cells, requiring a temporary adjustment of the pressure to maintain comfort.