CROW stands for Charcot Restraint Orthotic Walker. A CROW boot is a custom-made Orthoses aimed towards controlling the foot/ankle and offloading pressure. It may be helpful to think of it as an intimately fitting, semi removable cast for your foot and ankle which you can walk in.

How long do you have to wear a crow boot?

Most patients are expected to wear their CROW boot during waking hours for all weight-bearing activities. The length of time a patient is expected to wear their boot depends on the severity of the injury and the doctor’s recommendation. An individual could wear a boot for eight weeks, several months, or several years.

Can you walk with a crow boot?

It is sturdy and can be walked on, and it prevents other bones from cracking or breaking. The bottom of the boot has a rounded rocker-bottom shape. The boot contains a custom, removable foam insole that is adjusted to distribute weight equally and support the ankle joint.

How does a crow boot help Charcot foot?

A CROW is prescribed for patients with a diagnosis of Charcot Foot. It is a clamshell (two-piece) design that provides complete/total contact over the shin, calf, and foot. The CROW reduces all motion in the ankle and foot to reduce the potential for further injury.

What is a diabetic walking boot?

A diabetic boot is a device that can help people with diabetic ulcers. People with diabetes are at risk for developing foot ulcers, or open sores on the surface of the skin. A high blood sugar level delays proper wound healing.

What is diabetic foot?

Foot problems are common in people with diabetes. They can happen over time when high blood sugar damages the nerves and blood vessels in the feet. The nerve damage, called diabetic neuropathy, can cause numbness, tingling, pain, or a loss of feeling in your feet.

What is an offloading boot?

Offloading footwear consists of therapeutic shoes designed to provide pressure redistribution for patients at-risk for diabetic foot conditions such as neuropathic ulcers, Charcot foot and infection.

How does a total contact cast work?

It is designed to distribute weight along the entire sole of the foot. The cast helps to protect the skin on your foot. Where the cast sits under the ulcer, there is a layer of soft foam. This makes a space so that no pressure is put on the sore.