Information on ClubFeet in Black and White

Paulette Lane's Story

I may be a small minority out there, but I have long suffered with ankle and foot problems all my life after being born with bilateral club feet. I was casted for 2 years, then about 10 years later, had to have my achilles cut and stretched as I grew, and could only toe walk (couldn't put my feet flat). Now, after years of ankle pain and extreme swelling (many doctors told me I had to live with it or have my ankles fused) I found the miracle of AFOs. I grieved having to wear them, as I am quite fashion oriented, especially in footwear. The shoe options I was given were very ugly shoes. I was determined to find nicer looking shoes if I was going to wear the AFOs. I have to say that wearing the AFOs has improved my ankle pain and swelling tremendously. I only wish I knew of them sooner. No doctor told me of this option. I know that my feet and ankles have abnormal bone structure (even some dead bone I'm told)so I'm not a candidate for ankle replacement. OK, back to the shoes. I have found several pairs (for women) that work really well, with some adaptation. Of course, they aren't high heels, but they are nice. I had to go up about 1 1/2 to 2 sizes up in shoes to accomodate. I have the Arizona black leather AFOs, so it looks like a boot with a shoe or black sandal. I also have a beige color one for lighter shoes and clothing. There have been some obsticles (like squeaking when you walk - use silicone) but would be happy to share my journey with other women out there who don't want to totally give up all sense of fashion in trade off for ankle support.

I do have to ask, I was told this is degenerative, and that the AFOs will slow down the deterioration and give me mobility longer, but wondered if anyone knew more about adults with corrected bilateral club feet as they grow older what to expect?

Comments

Comment added by : jessica on the 13 Nov 2007 at 01:26am
I was also born with clubfeet and had quite a number of operations. I guess my right foot looks pretty well but it's quite small in size (looks like that of a 6year old). Unfortunately, the left foot is slightly bent and sometimes develop pressure sores. I am using AFOs now, and am not contemplating on undergoing any further operations as I opt to use the wheelchair when i have to walk great distances, I usually wear rubber shoes, but have special shoes for my AFO when i go to the ofc. You may email me so we could share more ideas on how to look good despite the clubfeet. God bless!
Comment added by : Sue on the 23 Sep 2007 at 17:18pm
Iam a 57 yr old lady I was born with club feet and have had many operations, I am awaiting surgery to have bones fused. I
Comment added by : nicole on the 24 May 2007 at 13:01pm
hi paulette i was born wiv club feet in 1985. iv had 16 operations to correct my feet and they did do a good job. but over the years since iv got older my feet have got worse. i have always found it hard getting shoes to fit. i were trainers most of the time. i always have one of my shoes raised because i have one leg shorter then the other. hope to here from you.

nicole.


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