The Elasto-Gel Heel/Ankle Boot, produced by Southwest Technologies, is a flexible outer boot with a soft gel insert which is marketed as both a “pressure relief” and “hot/cold” therapy product. The neoprene outer boot serves a dual purpose. First, the neoprene is a soft layer of cushion for the heel and ankle. Second, the neoprene outer boot acts as an insulating shell to help extend the length of time the gel insert retains a concentrated therapeutic hot or cold temperature. The boot is held securely in place by two soft Velcro strap closures.

 

The primary therapeutic component of the ankle boot is the gel insert. The insert is wrapped in a soft, breathable satin-like cloth which has Velcro on one side to hold the insert in place within the boot. The gel insert, which is 1/4 inch thick, adds the maximum cushion and material possible to the boot without creating balance and stability problems.

 

Avascular Necrosis patients who must spend a lot of time off their feet might be very interested in the Elasto-Gel Heel/Ankle boots as a tool to help prevent compression sores of the heels. The gel conforms to the foot and ankle and helps disperse pressure evenly over a larger area, and the neoprene outer boot does a great job of providing a durable soft shell to hold the whole unit together. These boots are much smaller and lighter in weight than many of the other heel and ankle pressure relief products on the market that we have tested. Also, by simply placing the boots in a plastic bag, they can be frozen or microwaved to provide either cold or hot therapy.

 

The Elasto-Gel Heel/Ankle boots have a few notable limitations which are worth considering. The neoprene outer shell contains a very severe non-slip property which works well to aid in stability during motion. However, when these boots are worn in bed, this non-slip property prevents the boots from sliding well under blankets. Thus, this product might not be the best option for a person who is bed-ridden. Another important fact to keep in mind is that neoprene is not a very breathable fabric. Consequently, these heel/ankle boots should not be worn for extended periods of time due to the risk that various unpleasant foot problems might result.