Prostheses

[cjsmith]

Many people with artificial feet can walk, hike, run, and even backpack. (At least if they've somehow obtained these artificial feet while the rest of their body was still functioning.)

If my doctors hadn't told me there was hope, back in 2003, we might have discussed this by now, and I could be running today.

Comments

[hnybny.livejournal.com]

Wow, amputation is pretty harsh. Are you sure it isn't tha pain talking? But really, do what you feel is best.

[cjsmith.livejournal.com]

It is harsh, yeah. And in some sense it is indeed the pain talking, 'cause the pain is why I'm not running and hiking and backpacking and climbing and doing all the enjoyable fun things I did two years ago.

But right now, it's all just my anger and frustration talking.

I'm a 37-year-old woman who's been to the top of Half Dome and would like to again -- and the only reason I can't is my feet. I've run in a few road races and would like to again -- and the only reason I can't is my feet. No yoga, no bike riding, no nothing. I'm a perfectly healthy person who can't walk ONE MILE because of these feet.

I want my life back. :-(

[annina-writes.livejournal.com]

Just a gentle reminder that amputation comes with its own list of pains, from phantom limb syndrome to friction burns and ulcers. However, I do know how you feel. I haven't felt "normal" in terms of ability and freedom from pain since 1978, and it has only gotten worse over time, until I can only walk a few steps at all.

But yours is much worse than mine; I had symptoms that started like little aches and pains following influenza and progressed over almost three decades. Yours started right at the beginning and you've not only suffered from the essential pain itself, but from the ministrations and manipulations of the medical practioners. That's gotta be so frustrating!!!

Being forgetful as I invariably am, have we discussed acupuncture? I seem to remember that you tried it. The treatment that made me cringe (but not as much as you, my dear) was the alcohol injections. [shudders]

I do hope you can get some permanent relief. Keep researching and looking. There just has to be someone out there with the answer to your pain!
Sending healing energy your way along with prayers and cyber hugs,
-Annina

[cjsmith.livejournal.com]

Just a gentle reminder that amputation comes with its own list of pains, from phantom limb syndrome to friction burns and ulcers.

Agreed - and of that list, one (the phantom pain) is untreatable, just like the pain I have today.

I don't know that mine's worse, or even that they're comparable -- yours is limiting and probably deucedly annoying, and I'm sure you've gone through patches of hell both emotional and physical.

I haven't yet tried acupuncture. That's probably next. Sadly, there doesn't have to be an answer. Some people never get better. I may have to face the fact that I'm one of them.

[annina-writes.livejournal.com]

Well, I'll keep you in my list of friends that I pray for. I'm not a huge religious person...well, yeah...I'm huge, but not religious (LOL!), but yes, I'm spiritual, and firmly believe in the power of prayer. When I told the 20K people in the World Community Forums, which I ran at the time that I had uterine cancer, and asked them to pray for me and send healing energy my way, a day later I was so buzzed I felt like I'd had a gazillion pots of coffee. When I had my surgery the doctor said it looked like the lesion, which was small, had been shrinking "on its own." It'll be 5 years ago on June 23rd and I never tire of telling the tale so excuse me if you've heard it before. The bottom line? There is always hope. :-) Gentle hugs!

[cjsmith.livejournal.com]

I thank you from the bottom of my heart. My mother has recently done the same (added me to a list in her prayer circle, actually).

I'm huge, but not religious (LOL!)

I did laugh out loud at this! :-) Ah, a sense of humor improves many an otherwise dreary day!

[sharya.livejournal.com]

I know it's not the same as doing the things you're used to doing, but Pilates has been excellent activity for me, and since it's mostly on a mat, and not in a standing position, it probably wouldn't bother your feet too much :/

I started Pilates due to the body not being cooperative with me doing the things I wanted to do, and it's done wonders for getting me back into shape and keeping me active.

[cjsmith.livejournal.com]

I may look into that. Thanks.

[patgreene.livejournal.com]

What about swimming?

[hnybny.livejournal.com]

I understand frustration, believe me. I won't ramble here.

There is so much yoga that doesn't have to be done standing. In fact if, I had to exercize with a foot injury I think yoga might be my only option.

BTW, after my car accident I said something very similar. The futility of it all sinks in eventually and you move on with your life, a different one, but still a life.

[cjsmith.livejournal.com]

I'd have to find a teacher that understands the limitations, though. I don't think I've ever met one who would accept a student who can't even attempt Downward Dog. Downward Dog is like the basic entrance fee or something.

I do love the twists. They do yummy wonderful things for my back! :)

[hnybny.livejournal.com]

I'm not sure if this place http://www.piedmontyoga.com/ is near you but if not they may be able to give you advice on studios nearby that have similar classes.

Here's a description of their class for disabilities:

People with Disabilities: This asana class is for anyone with a physical disability. Students who have some yoga experience as well as those new to the practice are welcome. We will practice meditation, breathing, and yoga with the use of props. If you are severely limited in your movements, you may want to bring a friend or attendant to assist you and enhance your experience.