Effectiveness of the Auto Edema Reduction (AER) Boot for Treatment of Edema in Acute Ankle Sprains: A Single Case Study

Abstract

This case study illustrates the use of the Auto Edema Reduction (AER) Boot in the treatment of an acute ankle sprain. The effectiveness of the AER Boot was determined by assessing pain, ankle volume, girth, and range of motion before and after a five-day treatment period.A 22-year-old female was evaluated within 24 hours of injury. She was non-weight bearing on the left lower extremity. Observation revealed marked discoloration distal to both the malleoli and diffuse swelling.Initial pain assessment was 3.4 on the visual analogue scale. The amount of displaced water during volumetric measurement was 985 milliliters. Two consecutive figure-eight girth measurements averaged 47.25 cm. Active range of motion for dorsiflexion averaged minus 15.5° and 60.5° for plantarflexion.After initial measurements were taken, the injured foot and ankle were placed into the AER Boot. Once adequate pressure was obtained, the subject was asked to perform 20 “pump presses” every five minutes throughout the 20-minute treatment. On the following four treatment days stretching and walking in the AER Boot were added to the protocol.Final measurements following the five day study revealed a pain rating of 0.8, 870 milliliters through volumetry, 45.25 cm girth, 9° of dorsiflexion, and 64.5° of plantarflexion. The patient was full weight bearing, ankle discoloration was improved, and she had resumed her normal activities.The AER Boot appears to be effective in reducing pain and edema in acute ankle sprains.