I may have mentioned a few weeks ago that I was measured for orthopedic shoes at the diabetic foot clinic. As I had to attend there today to have my walking boot repaired (the lining had come off and ruined a suit and nearly ruined my leg) I was happy to learn that the shoes had arrived. The lovely man who fits shoes put them on me and I walked around a bit. For the first time in years I am wearing a pair of shoes that do not rub or chafe and which do not cause me any pain. I was so happy I nearly cried.
They look a bit boxy, but I don’t care. They are dress shoes (wing tips) and can be worn instead of my boot, as the insole has been designed so that it takes pressure off the ulcer on the sole of my left foot.
Once these shoes are judged a success they will make me a set of walking shoes to the same measurements. They will also give me extra room in them so that when I travel and my feet swell from being on the plane, I can remove one insole and have more room for a few days while my feet return to their proper size.
All of this is designed to keep my shoes from injuring my feet, thus keeping me away from the foot clinic. And, for those who are wondering, these shoes are free on the National Health Service. I am so grateful to my adopted country for having the humanity to allow me, and others in the same situation, to receive the medical help we need to keep ourselves in good shape and alive and ambulatory longer. As someone who is currently unemployed, in the United States and other places where health care is not provided to those who need it but cannot afford it, I would have to continue to wear shoes that chafe my feet and create calluses, blisters, and ultimately infections. These can lead to amputation or worse.
Thank you, NHS!
That’s great news!
Comfort before looks!!!
hugs. i do hope the shoes will help your leg to recover sweety
awww 🙂
This is a major accomplishment!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! YAY! When you have diabetes and have a foot ulcer, it is the hardest thing in the world. These ulcers are incredibly hard to cure, and many people end up losing part or all of the foot or even leg. Yet, with the proper orthotics, the ulcer can be controlled or even heal!!
And walk without pain — the simple pleasure of walking without pain! — is such a relief.
Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!