Hi Darah~ I think you are the same "Darah" that I crossed paths w/a few yrs ago elsewhere! It is really nice to see your post.

About the footdrop.. The others' have given you some good advice and all I can add is that I too, do not adjust well to using devices that are yet another reminder of the way I used to do things. Stubborn? Yes.

My Dr had a leg/foot brace made for me, of which the insurance DID pay for, BUT, it's in the back of my closet collecting dust. I wore it for a short while. The newer ones are so much better than mine.

Hope to see you posting more.

I have used a cane ever since I knocked down an entire handbag display at Sears and the people who were there thought I was drunk - that was in the 70's - I've been using a brace for foot drop probabally 20 or so years along with the cane - if I didn't use a brace I would be spending half my life trying to get off the floor and I seriously couldn't walk without tripping - the walk-aide is expensive and not covered by any insurance I have had - if you want embarassing - there's knocking down the entire line of display racks of lingerie like dominos at Neiman Marcus because you're forgot to grab your cane -

It took me a while to get used to wearing the brace but if it enabled me to walk and do a job then it was and is worth it - as for people not being considerate of a person with a cane - I only had that problem once and a very sharp rap on the ankle with a metal cane does the trick - canes are also helpful for getting things off the top shelf - just remember to duck - and to use as a lever when you do fall down and there's nothing to grab onto to get up - golf carts are terrific too and so are the scooters they let you used at Jamestown - only ran down one person and that was my DH -

I'm one and the same! It's good to be back with the gang!

DARAH??? Is that really you?? Geez Louise..I am more surprised than DM....

Welcome home!

HIYA DARAH!

It's good to see you!

I say use whatever you have to use to get where you want to be and do what you want to do. There's no shame in using tools, regardless of what people who don't matter think, and "you'll look soooo good" doing it with your own particular style!!!

Yes, Av8rGirl, I'm home. It took me awhile, but like Dorothy, I learned that "there's no place like home."

I just need to dust Duke off and start taking him with me. He does have many uses. Aside from getting things off top shelves, rapping inconsiderate jerks on the ankle (so sorry--my bad!), and generally keeping me vertical, I could use it as a pointer when I lead my meetings.

When I was using my cane more regularly, I found that with people I know who looked a bit startled by it, I just introduced them to "Duke", my friend, and it lightened the mood substantially. I guess it's time for Duke to make some new friends!

I knew it was YOU! I just remember you being so kind when I was an up and running "newbie". Geez, that was about 4 yrs ago.

So glad you've popped back into sight. We missed ya!

Hi Darah, I don't think I know you, but I am so glad you are here....Welcome!!

Hi Darah,

I too have had trouble with Foot Drop. Now I wear orthotics on both legs, not too pretty but it keeps me upright and moving!

I was fitted for them at an Orthopaedic Clinic, made a cast of both legs. They were a little pricy, but I've had them for about 11 yrs. or so. I find they really help with the Foot Drop thingy, but if I stay on my feet for too long it bothers my back.


Sharon [/I]

when my foot decides to flop ......... my arms go out like an airplane and then i give it my best shot not to kiss the pavement. then if i manage to stay upright i say something like "Ta Da!" ........... and then promise myself i will lose the vanity and bring out "lucy" which is my back up........(cane) nothing fancy like yours lol and get real with myself.

however........
since i am unable to fly and the vanity usually wins out victor has set up an appointment for me for a rehab specialist. yep......i am headed for rehab...hi ho hi ho. may as well appease the man