Sometimes I think I know better than the experts. I mean, it’s my body after all and I know my body better than they do. So I didn’t really like it when (hospital physio) Helen said – get some off-the-peg orthotics (arch supports) to help with your over-pronation (foot/heel leaning inwards). No sir…. this is against barefoot-shoe rules as it will decrease my foot’s contact with the ground…but I knew I had to do something because the pull on my heel was stopping me from walking/exercising as much as I wanted to. I was instantly gratified by the amazing internet … which took me to some small silicone gel arch supports that basically only fill the arch area…. www.sturdyfoot.com/Non-Slip-Arch-Support-Silicone-Gel-Pads. Yay!.. pulling reduced… and foot can still feel the ground. But Dan at Vivobarefoot says this is like keeping your arm in a sling once the bone has healed – foot muscles will get weaker. What to do? I think I have to listen to my body and eschew the experts… so I’m going to use the supports, but hopefully strengthen my arch (with toe-gripping exercises) and maybe slowly wean myself off them….
OK. I’m cheating. I’m cheating just a bit….cos I’m doing some cycling instead of walking…and crossing my fingers that this is still helping my proprioception (see Achilles Blog 46)….so I cycled into St. W’s junior school and as I walked through the Yr 2/3 classroom to the reading room, I noticed they were doing science! I love science…and the children were doing muscles…so I thought I’d test them when they came in to read. Have you enjoyed your lessons today? Yes! said Fraser (7?)….and what muscles have you learnt? These ones (pointing to arm). And what are these ones called I asked (pointing to my arm). Ummm…..he said. Begins with ‘tri’ I said…..more Ummm. I try another tack…. where are your biceps?….Ummm…..Well, I said, helpfully…. your biceps are the ones you show off to your girlfriend….This brings forth a mini and surprisingly knowing guffaw, with a bigger guffaw from Mrs. Jackson. I give up ‘teaching’ muscles and get back to reading…
Oooo…and if you want to see how to get along without any biceps at all….check this incredible and totally inspiring armless girl: http://hooplaha.com/2013/06/the-sole-to-persevere-2/
jx
Ain't we got it made? 