Casts are great at protecting our feet and helping them heal after an injury, but they can provide a hindrance to our mobility. That being said, there are some things you can do to improve your mobility if you’re stuck in a cast for a few weeks or months. Today, we share some tips for helping you stay active while you’re in a foot cast.
Remaining Active In A Foot Cast
Staying active is about striking a balance between partaking in activities that improve your mobility and avoiding things that can re-injure your foot because you overdid it. Here are some tips for finding that balance.
1. Readjust Your Expectations – If you’re used to running outside 3-5 times a week, you’re going to need to reevaluate your exercise expectations, otherwise you’re just going to be disappointed by your daily and weekly activity. You can still find ways to get 30-45 minutes of daily exercise, but it will have to come in different forms. Adjust your expectations and understand that you’re going to be a little less physically active for a little while.
2. Find Your Activity – As we mentioned above, you probably won’t be able to run or swim for a while, but find some activities that work and jump into them. A lot of people find success with things like yoga, tai chi or meditation. These activities will help keep you physically active while also helping to improve your mental health, which is also very important during this time.
3. Consult a Doctor or Physical Therapist – Your foot specialist or a physical therapist can help give you some activities or mobility exercises that can help you stay active while also keeping your foot protected. Sometimes these exercises can also help improve your recovery, which will help get you out of your cast sooner! Ask your doctor or physical therapist for some mobility exercises that you can do from the comfort of your home.
4. Consider Assistive Options – Finally, if your cast is a non-weight bearing type, you’re going to have a tough time moving around without an assistive option. See what mobility options are available to you, and find what works best for your situation. Crutches aren’t you only option, and a number of people find success with a knee walker or another similar device. Ask your doctor or research some alternatives to crutches to find something that best suits you.