supportive sandal suggestions

[carolin...@gmail.com]

Hi everyone,

I have a triple arthrodesis of my right ankle.  

I'm looking for sandals that would be very supportive especially for the sides of my ankle.  So far, only sneakers do this.  But I live in the East and it's getting too hot for sneakers, even with the AC on.  I tried on my old sandals but none have enough support.  And some are so pretty!

Also, my gait has been off since the 3 fusion surgeries, so I need sandals that hug my feet securely.

Does anyone have suggestions?

Thanks,

Caroline Levine

[Lorraine Hoffman]

No suggestions so far. 

--
You received this message because you are subscribed to the Google Groups "Ankle Fusion Support" group.
To unsubscribe from this group and stop receiving emails from it, send an email to ankle-fusion-sup...@googlegroups.com.
To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/8ac4080c-1dd5-48c4-8de6-9968edb1204en%40googlegroups.com.

[April Weber]

 Birkenstocks!

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/CAAdVeLxHkakzdRtJw_ajFO9kNfvyXQRi86MUqZpAomB8SODOxg%40mail.gmail.com.

[Deb]

Caroline,

I've also had a triple arthrodesis. I don't feel comfortable wearing anything but sneakers. The only brand I can wear are the Hoka Cliftons. Everything else I've tried doesn't cut it. I'd be interested to see if you find a sandal that works. Not sure how a sandal would give the support the Hokas do.

Good luck.

Deb

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/CAAdVeLxHkakzdRtJw_ajFO9kNfvyXQRi86MUqZpAomB8SODOxg%40mail.gmail.com.

[Kim Connolly]

Hi Caroline, I have had triple arthrodesis, too- few years ago.  I had surgery at the end of January and by the time late spring got here, I was tired of my sneakers.  I have a nice shoe store in my area- suburbs of Baltimore- that has people there who will fit you properly with all types of shoes, per your foot condition.  Good quality shoes.. They are a family run business and have people who have worked there for 30 years.  They recommended a certain style of Taos sandals that really provided ankle support the summer after my surgery.  It is called Lovely.  I would recommend trying to get to a shoe store that carries good quality shoes, and you will probably be able to try on a few Taos styles. Let me know how you do with your shopping.  There is nothing worse than having hot feet in the summer, especially in Maryland- don’t know where you live, but it has been almost 100 degrees here!

Kim 

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/CADY_t5wJ8YXiACWDfNR8A5jwDKbDp%3DvJVDja47QKtbXS5%3D5Nog%40mail.gmail.com.

[Caroline Levine]

Kim,

 I live in Rockville so I know what you're talking about.  I'll look into the Taos sandals.  I don't mind the high prices of good shoes if they feel good.  Ritchies used to be a good place to buy special shoes.

tonight my husband and I met neighbor-friends for dinner.  I was able to be comfortable in my ancient coral sandals.  They also felt good on my instep which hurt all day.  They don't have terrific support, but enough in the right places to do the trick.  I keep very good care of them.  I have to hold my husband's arm when we walk, but that's okay.  The only thing is my off-gait precludes most vacations.  Is your gait okay?  If it is, maybe I could take some pointers from you.

Caroline

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/ED23D2ED-A2B0-42A7-A74D-BFD1140E6253%40gmail.com.

[Meg Gwaltney]

Hi neighbor. 

I live just down the road in Bethesda/Chevy Chase. I had an ankle fusion in 2010 and my ankle is doing great. Surgery was done in Baltimore by a renowned surgeon, now retired, and I’m so thankful for now being able to walk, hike, and do everything I want to do with little to no pain. It’s been so hot recently and I understand the longing for sandals. I wear either sneakers/walking shoes or Rothy’s which I find really comfortable. I’d like to wear sandals but due to the effects of RA on my poor feet, I feel they’re not a great option. Anyway, I always think of Nordstrom’s as a good place for finding shoes. They sold me a mis-matched pair after my surgery (one normal size and one 2 sizes larger for my operated foot) after surgery and I was then able to return them a couple months later for a matched pair when the swelling had gone down. I hope you continue to do well and enjoy all those activities you’ve been longing to do. 

Meg

Get Outlook for iOS

---

From: ankle-fusi...@googlegroups.com <ankle-fusi...@googlegroups.com> on behalf of Caroline Levine <carolin...@gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, July 6, 2021 9:26:23 PM
To: ankle-fusi...@googlegroups.com <ankle-fusi...@googlegroups.com>
Subject: Re: supportive sandal suggestions

 

Warning from Abt: External email. Be careful opening links and attachments.

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/CABQQ7pqW3cudyFDtkRh%2BtH69m_E1t7yBtk-ydGtDkb8RKE-F3g%40mail.gmail.com.

---

This message may contain privileged and confidential information intended solely for the addressee. Please do not read, disseminate or copy it unless you are the intended recipient. If this message has been received in error, we kindly ask that you notify the sender immediately by return email and delete all copies of the message from your system.

[vonda cowling]

I had triple athrodesis in August 2019.  My surgeon recommended an orthotic and I wear most of the time with sneakers.   I wear Vionic  sandals and they are comfortable.  My gait is fine excep stiffness overnight.  

--

[Kim Connolly]

Hi Caroline, Van Dyke and Bacon is the name of the shop in the Balt area. I believe they have a shop in Annapolis.  Happy to give you further info, though I’m sure you have something similar in Rockville.  

Best,

Kim

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/CABQQ7pqW3cudyFDtkRh%2BtH69m_E1t7yBtk-ydGtDkb8RKE-F3g%40mail.gmail.com.

[Caroline Levine]

Thanks, Kim.

I just ordered some shoes from Orthofit.  They look to be perfect.  Will let  you know.

Caroline

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/4331C7BF-4BCA-4198-9AFF-A892165DADC9%40gmail.com.

[Kim Connolly]

Great- will be interested to know how you like them!

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/CABQQ7ppCPFchWurBdMujSm6g5q4FKs8TWtd6s%2B0qcnWg9qGPHg%40mail.gmail.com.

[Caroline Levine]

I'll let you know.  For a long time, my Easy Spirit Travel Time "sneakers" gave me terrific support, but no more.  Also, I tried putting in new Spenco insoles which used to help.  I have to kepp trying new ideas.

Caroline

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/E7ADE5CC-E237-45F3-91C0-D8B19E9E7D32%40gmail.com.

[carolin...@gmail.com]

H fellow ankle fusionistas

The Orthofeet sandals didn't work.  I've developed a soreness under the toes/mid foot in the sole of my foot.  I sent the Orthofeet sandals and sneakers back but when my foot heals, will try them again. 

Also, I tried a class in seated tap thinking I could make the sounds I used to love.  My triple fusioned foot thought otherwise--said I was insane to even put a tap shoe on it.  I'm sending the tap shoes back. 

It took me a few weeks to finally accept my foot can't bend enough to do the basic steps.  But the important thing is I can walk.   Am grateful for the years when I enjoyed tap dancing.

[Hilarie Roth]

Hi everyone! I just joined the group and got this email thread, thank you!

My right foot/ankle is fused as well as a posterior hip replacement and pelvic reconstruction also right sided due to a motorcycle accident.

I can no longer reach my right foot no matter how many stretching exercises I do, so use hip kit tools to put my shoes on. I buy Billy shoes as they are sturdy and have a zipper that I can manipulate to open and close. www.billyfootwear.com 

I'm looking at another foot surgery this winter as my ankle still supinates (rolls to the outside) throwing my weight as I step forward onto the outside of my foot. Uncomfortable, painful by the end of the day. 

I JUST discovered this other company www.keenwalking.com 

I ordered their 2020 leather zipper boot and you will see a lot of sandals that may or may not work for you guys.

I'm still looking for a winter snow boot (I'm in Boston) that I can get my right foot into, since none of us no longer can point our toes and slide our foot in. Any suggestions would be appreciated. 

Thanks!

Hilarie 

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/d4bb23fd-a4ae-484d-85b1-afe96ca06c6an%40googlegroups.com.

[Caroline Levine]

Hi Hilarie,

wow, you've been through surgery hell.  You sound upbeat though.  Are you just good at accepting your lot?  Do you just concentrrate on what you CAN do?

Here I am complaining that I can't take the seated tap class I've wanted for years.  I did tap after my first fusion years ago though.  After the 2nd/3rd, two years in a row, I can no longer bend my foot.  I have a hard time walkinig period.  But I am walking.

Caroline

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/CAOC2NNdqUBuwTiyJhV5avfKW97ztsBZTb%3DopzeHoCnsRPoOVkA%40mail.gmail.com.

[Kim Connolly]

Hello,

If you are willing to travel about 2 hours,ELM Shoes Greencastle PA is now my recommendation.  They have more shoes to fit those of us with feet problems than anywhere in our area.  Stylish and great service. Quality brands. 

Kim Sorry your other shoes didn’t work. 

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/d4bb23fd-a4ae-484d-85b1-afe96ca06c6an%40googlegroups.com.

[Caroline Levine]

Hi Kim,

Thanks for the tip.  I'll look them up online.  You're lucky you have one nearby.  We have Richie's Shoes where I live.  I should go there again, but in the past, there was only one brand that I could wear.  that said, they were lifesavers.  I wore them for years after my lst fusion.  After the 2nd and 3rd ones my foot became more problematic.  I need to go back to my foot surgeon and see what's going on with the foot.

Caroline

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/85EAE177-D010-4D8C-A741-7E53B35C37BC%40gmail.com.

[Hilarie Roth]

Caroline, it sounds like YOU are the one that's been through surgery hell! My surgeon was very detailed in terms of the expected outcome and diminished mobility. As I should have died from the impact of the accident, I treasure each day as it comes. I'm grateful that I CAN walk (no ortho or neuro had any hope of my walking again) and that I didn't have any major spine damage nor any brain damage. 

So, back to what you guys are talking about...

I mentioned this brand in my first email, I cannot speak highly enough about them. Www.keenwalking.com 

Did you check them out? There sandal collection is impressive. They also cushion their shoes for people with painful feet/foot problems.

Anyhoo you guys have a good evening. 

Hilarie Roth 

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/CABQQ7ppQu8xemu-yLC%3DnU7qLmJzxsuBtukhUOXSaomv3EjCYCQ%40mail.gmail.com.

[Caroline Levine]

Hi Hilarie,

I'll check out Keen in a few weeks.  I've been trying out so many shoes and sending them back, that I want to wait a bit.  Also, I think the issue with the sole of my foot is slowly getting better.  I should wait til it's not hurting at all before I try on shoes.  I think the Orthofeet shoes wouldn't been perfect, but with the sole pain, I couldn't tell.  I want to give these shoes a fair trial.  What is helping is an $8 silicone gel insert for plantar fasciitis I got on Amazon.

Our little chocolate dachshund hurt his spine so badly in May, the vets said he'd never walk again.  Gradually he's getting better and can walk/run in a wonky way.  The thing is he gets to where he wants to go.   It's like a little miracle.

I know what you mean about being thankful you can walk.  I get frustrated that my walking is getting harder.  When we're out, I have to hold onto my husband's arm.  If I walk too much around the house my foot kills me.  I should use my walker more but it damages the furniture and is in the way many times.  Or I should buy the cane with the movable prong set.  I've tried canes before but I trip on them.  How ironic would it be to trip and fall over a cane, right?

Take care,

Caroline Levine

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/CAOC2NNdWtDAdcdJOQvRkUArEzeTdkjrxd3WaMaH2C2YyRMOxzw%40mail.gmail.com.

[Deb]

Just my 2 cents. I've had both ankles fused, one side a triple after a failed union. The only shoe that works for me is the HOKA Clifton. My surgeon recommended them and nothing else seems to work. In my case I need a neutral shoe, you may need something different.

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/CABQQ7prphLHMwkSv00UuEk%3DT6FF-sbJ_UDvMuVD_6BdeUpTw4g%40mail.gmail.com.

[Caroline Levine]

Hi Deb,

I tried a Hoka slide.  It was way too wide and not soft enough for my sore sole.

I can't imagine having both ankles fused.  Do you use a rollator or cane?

Caroline

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/CADY_t5wvRzG-FDXKxVuE4udc27FRga3SLBRx4gosOm%3DGLuMa%3Dw%40mail.gmail.com.

[Lorraine Hoffman]

That is fantastic.!

What is your supportive sandal suggestion?

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/CAOC2NNdWtDAdcdJOQvRkUArEzeTdkjrxd3WaMaH2C2YyRMOxzw%40mail.gmail.com.

[Deb]

Caroline,

I wouldn't think a slide would be supportive enough. Some of the HOKAS have a very plush sole. I walk pretty well now, and fortunately don't need to use anything. Only issue I'm having is with one of the screws. It's beginning to irritate the side of my foot.  If it continues, the Dr. has suggested just removing all the hardware. I may consider that in the future.

Good luck in your search. It can be super frustrating. Fortunately for me I don't mind wearing the HOKAS. Even wore them to my nieces wedding.

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/CABQQ7prroDjBd4hb6-vf5w1jTTu%3D66w1dipmujD8bKJedHnpuw%40mail.gmail.com.

[DENNIS HULL]

Praying for you and your recovery!!

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/CADY_t5zFVUa3VQk%2BfosKjy3_Zi3kKCHnx1eVwSfrxWJWtdXW7w%40mail.gmail.com.

[Caroline Levine]

I know what you mean about not minding wearing the Hokas to a wedding.  My younger daughter married 2 years ago and I wore flats.  No way could I consider even kitten heals.  It was fine.  But my Easy Spirit Travel Time clogs would've been more comfy.  But with a chiffon dress?  I thought about it though.

Yes, it's the support around the ankle that's extremely impt.  That's why it's hard to find sandals like that.  Even with adjustable straps around the ankle, it's not enough.  My Easy spirit sneakers are good. 

Have you heard of the Arizona boot?  My surgeon suggested it before my last fusion in '18.  I have psoriasis and eczema on my calves so the tight leather boot would never have worked.  I can see how it's supportive however.

It's a personal question you don't need to answer, but do you sometimes struggle with accepting limitations of things you can't do with your foot?  I.E. I'm returning tap shoes I thought I could use for a seated tap class.  My foot screamed when I showed them to her.  I tried tapping but my foot is 95% fused.  I thought I'd be happy with modifying the steps, but I just can't do them.  I'm trying to be happy recalling the classes I took 10 years ago.  I'd only had one fusion then and could keep up with all the steps/routines.  I keep thinking now, but you can walk.  Not very well though. 

Hope this isn't too much of a downer email. 

Caroline

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/624710883.722531.1629163166868%40mail.yahoo.com.

[Deb]

Caroline,

I tried on an Arizona Boot, it was so uncomfortable. I decided on the surgery instead. I've had 3 surgeries, talonavicular in the left, which didn't 

fuse. Before I could get that re-done, my right ankle gave way on me. Could not walk without a boot. So I had a subtalar with a peroneal repair 

on the right. Meanwhile, the left is weak, so they make an AFO brace for me to wear. I hated wearing it, it was hot in the summer, and it looked just great with

shorts....lol.. So, I ended up having a triple arthrodesis on the left. The 3 surgeries took place between August 2016 and May 2019. It was a long 3 years. 

Thank God for the kneeler. It made it so much easier to get around.

Everything is pretty good. Some pain if I over do it, too much walking, or working the yard.

So for me I don't feel there are many limitations. I never tapped, so not sure I could, but I can stand on my toes with the Hokas on. The doctor said I was very lucky it all went well. Glad he said that after the fact. Don't regret having the surgeries. I could barely walk before. Nothing really to complain about now, especially hearing how

other folks have faired.

Good luck with your shoe search !

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/CABQQ7pp3M_vv93Zbi4SFAoVRpB5EgfL_3XgwGhtaFU8Y%3D5jZ7A%40mail.gmail.com.

[Deb]

Caroline,

Hope my reply wasn't too matter of fact. There are things that are somewhat difficult. Going up and down stairs would be one. Living in a ranch I don't

think of that too often. We have steps in our garage, but before my first surgery my nephew built a ramp to use with the kneeler. It worked great, so we just left it

up. My partner likes it better than the stairs. Don't know if you walk barefoot at all, that hurts almost as much as it did before the surgery. I guess I could put my shoes on as soon as I get up. All in all I think it went well considering what the surgeon had to deal with. There was a section of dead bone, which is why the first surgeon was hesitant to do the triple. So, I guess I was lucky.

How are making out with your shoe quest ?  Before I had my surgery I bet I bought and returned at least 50 pair thru Amazon.

The UPS lady got a big kick out of it.

[Caroline Levine]

Deb, your reply didn't bother me.

Stairs are hard for me, but I do them like a child.  I hold onto the banister carefully and count the steps to keep me attentive.  So far it works out.

I do not walk barefoot ever.  

I've stopped for awhile ordering shoes.  I just need a little break.  Also I have a new pair of Easy Spirit sneakers to wear when it cools off.  It's hot and humid now so no sneakers, just Easy Spirit Travel Time shoes.

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/CADY_t5z4_UVnFvH8o2UXo%3D8_J%2BYMtmG179AuC08xXF%2BsyWNEbg%40mail.gmail.com.

[Deb]

okHIlarie,

I was just re-reading this thread and realized that you were from Boston. I'm not sure who your surgeon was,

but I wanted to let you know who I saw in case were looking for a second opinion. I was fortunate to find Dr. Christopher Giovanni, Mass General. I

had my surgery done at the Waltham site. I don't think I could have asked for a better outcome of my triple arthrodesis.

Be well,

Deb

On Sun, Aug 15, 2021 at 12:54 PM Hilarie Roth <hilari...@gmail.com> wrote:

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/CAOC2NNdqUBuwTiyJhV5avfKW97ztsBZTb%3DopzeHoCnsRPoOVkA%40mail.gmail.com.

[Caroline Levine]

Hi Deb,

I'm not from Boston.  Live near Washington D.C.

I'm not looking for a second opinion.  I';ve had 3 foot fusions and sure hope my poor never sees another knife!

Caroline

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/CADY_t5yF7UZw4hh3y-A4WtsAEC1bY-mGk7HfR%3DtfiCztMHsn1g%40mail.gmail.com.

[Hilarie Roth]

Deb, that's so interesting you recommended him! I see him in Oct (made the appt in july). he's taken a couple of chairs and not accepting new patients. But he reviewed my file and is friends with my ucla foot/ankle surgeon so accepted me. I'm looking forward to the appointment. I definitely need a third surgery which will be delicate and tricky. I have full confidence in him. 

Thanks for writing back to me!

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/CADY_t5yF7UZw4hh3y-A4WtsAEC1bY-mGk7HfR%3DtfiCztMHsn1g%40mail.gmail.com.

[Deb]

I think you'll like him. Good luck with your appointment.

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/CAOC2NNdwDMouq%2BbLyxUKaxPT%2BnPZayQ%3DfuTUhDbubqwWeYPCvA%40mail.gmail.com.

[Deb]

Sorry Caroline, I was referring to Hilarie. I guess I should have sent her a separate message.

Sorry for any confusion. After 3 I wouldn't want another either.

To view this discussion on the web visit https://groups.google.com/d/msgid/ankle-fusion-support/CABQQ7ppCpa6rTSYvRWTpN5M9CHhzFia_crU28-_vM3EfaGancQ%40mail.gmail.com.