A pediatric walker is helpful in immobilizing your child’s feet in the event of sprains, soft tissue injuries and fractures on the lower leg. Although they are exactly like the adult CAM walkers, a pediatric walker has a few design adjustments that make it more comfortable for children to wear. Pediatric walkers are also useful for extremely short adults who may find it difficult to get their sizes in the adult CAM walker segment.
CAM Walker Pediatric: How does it Differ from Adult CAM Walkers?
Pediatric CAM walkers are obviously several sizes smaller than adult walkers. The size is adjusted for a child’s feet by having shorter struts on the sides. In addition, the sole sizes are also smaller.
Other than this basic design tweak, different brands of pediatric CAM walkers have their own selling points. Some brands use a breathable foam padding that can be washed, so that comfort and hygiene levels can be maintained. Others ensure that their pediatric CAM walkers are made tougher and lighter.
The pediatric CAM walkers may also be designed with a wider than normal rocker sole to ensure high safety standards even on risky surfaces like a wet ground. They also have a low profile design aimed to improve your child’s comfort.
How to Use a Pediatric Walker
(i) Ensure that your child uses an ace bandage or an athletic sock under the pediatric CAM walker.
(ii) The pediatric CAM walker will open all the way in the front, so ensure that your child slides his injured feet directly on to the sole of the walker. His feet should be flat against the sole.
(iii) Wrap the foam padding around his feet and leg and fasten the Velcro straps to ensure a snug fit. Do not pull the straps too tight as that could cause circulation problems.
(iv) Once the pediatric CAM walker is in place, it is better to start ambulating by using the injured foot to take the first step.
(v) The CAM walker should be used as per the schedule given by the physician. Generally, you should be able to remove it during bathing or sleeping unless otherwise specified by the doctor.
The Benefits of Using a Pediatric CAM Walker
(i) A pediatric CAM walker is much more convenient, easy to use and child friendly as compared to the traditional cast.
(ii) Unlike a traditional cast, a CAM walker makes cleaning the injured area much easier as it can be removed.
(iii) The pediatric CAM walker immobilizes the injured feet even as it allows controlled movements as the rehabilitation process progresses.
(iv) The CAM walker ensures support and stability to the injured extremity.
Precautions While Using a Pediatric CAM Walker
(i) Though pediatric CAM walkers are very comfortable, there may be some redness in the initial stages of use. Consult a doctor if the redness persists.
(ii) Your physician will adjust the CAM settings to allow your child’s ankle the prescribed amount of movement. It is important that your child does not tinker with the settings. In case he complains of discomfort, consult with your physicians on whether the settings require to be changed.
(iii) Keep the foam liners clean. They can be hand washed in cold water.
When Does Your Child Require a Pediatric CAM Walker?
A pediatric CAM walker is useful in all injuries that require foot or ankle stabilization. These include the following:
(i) Ankle sprains.
(ii) Stress fractures
(iii) Achilles tendonitis
(iv) Ligament injury
(v) Controlling swelling
An injury to the lower foot or ankle can cause severe discomfort to your child. The support and protection provided by a pediatric CAM walker can help in faster rehabilitation.