Lorri's Story
i have club feetI was born in 1970 with severe bilateral club feet, my feet turned in and up so much that my toes touched my ankles. The doctors told my parents it would be a miracle if I would walk.
I had my first surgery when I was two months old and my last when I was 8 years old. Nine total surgeries, many, many castings, bars between my shoes, and braces until I was 12. Two scars on each foot and one each up the back of my ankle and calf. My right is worse than my left. My right foot is a 5 1/2 EEEE and my left foot is a 6 1/2 EE. I walk on the side of my feet, so I wear shoes out very fast.
I finally was able to walk when I was three. I was taught never to let it get me down, I COULD DO ANYTHING I PUT MY MIND TO!!
There was always pain, if I went hiking I was down off my feet for a couple of days after...but I did not let is stop me.
I went on to lead a normal life as a teenager, married an awesome man had two beautiful children who were lucky enough not to have club feet.
Now that I am older (38), my feet hurt ALL THE TIME. Have seen several doctors, who claim nothing can be done. I had one doctor tell me "your feet don't look that bad, I have seen much worse"...I wanted to strangle her...I have been prescribed Motrin, but hurts my tummy...so I live with the pain. I can only wear very wide width shoes...and I am sure you all know just how many of those are on the market...not many.
My ankles are weak and give out a lot. I am sure pain is arthritis, but if I want to continue my normal life I refuse to have another surgery...until I can no longer walk.
Added on 13 Mar 2009
Comments
All times are in GMT -04:00Comment added by Jennifer on the Thu 10 June 2010 a 07:17pm
Hi, I too was born with bilateral club feet, in 1971. I was casted, wore braces, corrective shoes until 5th grade and the surgeries started. I lived a normal life, but could never wear all the cute shoes!! I am 39 now, and live in chronic pain that gets worse every year. doctors, too, have said take daily anti-imflammatories, but I'd rather not. I'm on my feet all day at work and my feet just throb at night!! I'm lucky to have a supportive husband and 2 great kids! It's nice to find a website to share our stories. I wish there was something that can be done. Thanks for sharing!