When the New England Patriots Tom Brady was recently spotted with a walking boot on his right leg, reporters became less interested in his companion Gisele, and more focused on what role, if any, a possible injury would have on the upcoming Super Bowl.

I care for many pro athletes, and I am often asked for my opinion on these matters, especially when the injured player's team, and team docs, are being closed-lipped. As a result, reporters have been calling from all over, especially the New York and Boston areas. Here are my thoughts:

A short video showed the star quarterback walking in a "cam-walker" or walking boot, a removable plastic shell that immobilizes the foot and ankle similar to a cast.

It is much more convenient since it is removable for showers, exercise and treatment. They are usually prescribed to treat injuries to the foot or ankle area. They can be used for anything from minor, more stable fractures to sprains or strains. They allow you to still get around and be ambulatory while "resting" the injured body part.

He was walking very well in the boot. I did not see an appreciable lamp. He walked a little funny because he was wearing the boot but it did not seem to be because of significant pain or discomfort. The word is that Brady had a relatively minor ankle sprain ("high" ankle sprain) although this has not yet been verified. He was also subsequently spotted walking pretty well without the boot.

My suspicion is that he did indeed have a very minor ankle sprain, and will be fine for kickoff in two weeks.

He has plenty of time to rest the ankle, ice it, take some anti-inflammatory meds and get one or two treatments per day by the Patriot's superb athletic trainers and therapists. Maybe even a little foot and ankle rub from Gisele.

Note to New York Giants fans: Be ready for Tom Brady at his best - even if he is a little sore.