Finally ready for a follow-up with my orthopedist, I knew my ankle and foot problems had not been solved with four weeks of physical therapy. While I am told my ligament is no longer loose and my ankle appears more stable, I received the unfortunate news that I can no longer wear flip-flops, open-heel shoes, or traipse around my apartment with bare feet.
Due to my ongoing plantar fasciitis and now Achilles tendinosis, these conditions will not heal if I continue in the above tasks. While these conditions were not the original cause of distress, they occurred due to the prolonged immobilization of my ankle.
The good news is I no longer have to pay for physical therapy since I've learned every exercise capable of improving my ankle. However, my doctor says I must be diligent on my own or will not see improvement.
So, to sum up my newest set of rules so I can one day run again, I have to wear an insole in every pair of shoes I wear all day, every day or exacerbate my current ankle/foot status, avoid flip-flops (which seems nearly impossible since I lived in them every summer at the beach and even some occasions in the snow), and avidly perform daily exercises.
Maybe, just maybe I will see some real results IF I follow the rules all day, every day, until the orthopedist says, "When."
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After fracturing both ankles during training (different ankles, different years and because I'm a klutz), I can't wear heels as often as I used to be able to. That's probably okay in the long run, anyway, because heels really aren't the best for your posture.
In any case, you might not be a Birkenstock girl, but I happen to like clogs and have been wearing them for over 30 years to keep my feet and legs as strong as possible. My particularly favorite maker is Bjorndal (I find them at Famous Footwear). They make various styles of slip on shoes and sandals that are very kind to your ankles and comfortable. While with a ballet company during college, we wore Dr. Scholl's clogs during rehearsal for 2 reasons: 1) strengthen the ankles, and 2) we could tell if we were out of step, LOL!
May 18, 2009 - 4:57pmThis Comment
Alysiak-
I'm glad to hear you've overcome your ankle obstacles. It is inspiring for me to hear your story.
I may also look into those clogs you've suggested. However, this would have to be a long-term goal since I cannot wear open-heel shoes because I have to wear an insole.
Thank you for your advice!
May 19, 2009 - 9:40amThis Comment
Hi, Shannon - I think you could probably find a good, comfortable shoe that an insole can go in without giving up style. My mom likes Naturalizer because they make shoes with a little more style, in real leather, and with comfy soles.
Hope your feet heal well. :)
May 19, 2009 - 4:29pmThis Comment
I sure will think on it! I am a shoeaholic! Steve Madden has some nice styles!
May 18, 2009 - 11:26amhttp://www.zappos.com/product/7388196/color/72
Is the incline on these too much?
This Comment
Most likely that incline is too much. However, I really have to try it on to know. The main dilemma with this particular shoe for me is, since I have to wear an insole, I can't wear shoes with an open back.
Thank you though for opening my mind to new options though. I appreciate it!
May 19, 2009 - 9:38amThis Comment
I live in California and am sooooo sick of flip flops....lol....don't worry...you'll be waaaay sexier without them! Can you wear heels?
May 17, 2009 - 6:13pmThis Comment
Unfortunately not yet. My Achilles tendon does not stretch as much as the normal persons, so much so that I was told I don't/can't physically stand properly. It's not obvious, but that's my doctor's job to notice.
Anyway, even though I can't wear heels yet, I am trying to work up too that and might try to find a cute wedge that has some height with no incline.
Let me know if you have any suggestions!
May 18, 2009 - 11:04amThis Comment
Flip-flops in the snow - what a commitment!
May 15, 2009 - 3:17pmThis Comment
Haha. Thanks Anon.
Growing up on the beach everyone lives in flip-flops. So, there were a number of days I wasn't aware it was going to snow and ended up in flip-flops on a snowy day.
I don't really recommend it, but it happens.
May 15, 2009 - 4:02pmThis Comment
Oh no! You have to avoid running and flip flops! I suppose it's best to follow the advice so you can improve your ankles in the long run. Swimming is a really good idea to continue to stay active. With summer here, it's the perfect excuse to get outside and cool off while exercising!
If you need any help finding cute alternative supportive fun summer shoes, let me know. It's important to still feel good about yourself!
May 15, 2009 - 10:51amThis Comment