“I bought my first pair of Birkenstock sandals 2 years ago. My injury Personal Trainer recommended them and in the summer I lived in them. The arch of my foot was supported and they really exercised my feet. Obviously I could not wear my orthotics in sandals, it’s great that with Birkenstocks the support is built in. I own the Madrid, pictured above and a limited edition pair of pink floral Papillio’s. I have recently tried these on since my operation and with the hypersensitivity of my feet, I cannot bare the clip-clop of flip flops so I would opt for a different style with a strap around the back of the ankle but the supported arch now feels too low. However, I recommend that you try them as they may be suitable for you. They have a kids and mens range too.” Helen

ëHush Puppies - UK (Footwear)

Hush Puppies® Aretha leather shoe available in Black, Beige and Pale Pink.

“I have written an email to Hush Puppies® UK asking if it was possible to make the Aretha shoe, with same sole and velcro straps in slightly different styles, similar to
Seagrass, Manado and Tokyo but in suede and/or canvas in Brown, Black and Beige (colours more likely to sell) which will offer good air circulation for feet in the summer. Also saying that there is a market for orthotic shoes aimed at a younger age group, which are both comfortable/good for your feet and fashionable (even some older people hate the styles of orthopaedic shoes aimed at an older age group…I know my mum does!). I have received a really nice reply thanking me for my support and saying that my email has been passed onto the design team.” Helen

ëCrocs Footwear

Please visit http://www.crocs.com and http://www.crocsfootwear.co.uk

Crocs are committed to making a lightweight, comfortable, slip-resistant, fashionable and functional shoes that can be produced quickly at an affordable prices to customers. Crocs are worn by movie stars, journalists, yachtsmen, athletes, mountain climbers and surgeons. They are ultra light: weigh less than 6oz, resistant to bacteria – odor free, water and sand pass through easily through the air vents which also help keep your feet cool, they are easy to look after and mold to your feet with orthopaedic benefits – can help with posture and blood circulation. Crocs are available in many sizes, styles and colours.

Pictured above are the original crocs™ model, beach™; comfortable, cool, and molds to your feet; orthotic foot bed; advanced toe-box ventilation system; slip-resistant and non-marking soles; anti-microbial and odour resistant; ergonomic Italian styling; wide, roomy foot bed; made with croslite™ PCCR material; buoyant; weighs only ounces.

“I personally do not own a pair… yet! I think Crocs are a great invention, if they are as comfortable as they sound. I like the idea that they waterproof, because my feet hurt and become hypersensitive when sitting on the bath board having a shower, my mum has to help me to the bedroom barefoot (which I struggle with) also with the aid of crutches. I think that with the help of Crocs, I could wear them in the shower and possible walk un-aided to my bedroom. They would be great in the summer and on the beach too. Also take a look at the islander which is a lace up version.” Helen

Doctor’s comments…

“The reason that I have recommended Crocs is because often my patients are searching for a lightweight shoe that provides shock absorbing qualities. Additionally, the design of the Crocs also provides ample toe room for sensitive feet, that allows enough room to avoid any irritation to the toes or forefoot. Another important factor is that because of the open design, Crocs can often accommodate edema or swollen feet or ankles which is often common in patients that are suffering from chronic conditions. My only critique of the product is that some patients may feel that there is not enough support in the arch area. I'm sure that this was intentional, because if the product had an arch that was too high, a significant portion of the population would not be able to tolerate that type of product. My solution would be to purchase an excellent over-the-counter product called PowerSteps. The PowerSteps will fit into the Crocs and provide the added support. However, naturally the Crocs will fit a little "tighter" once a pair of PowerSteps are inserted, so please consider that when ordering.” Dr Wander

see: http://www.Tap4TTS.co.uk/page22.htm   

ëTed’s shoe & Sport Footwear (Specializing in custom shoes)

ëPowerstep® (Over the counter orthotics)

Please visit http://www.physioroom.com

Above is The Ultra-Lite Carpal Tunnel Wrist Brace. Uniquely designed, this is the most lightweight wrist splint available. It provides support to the wrist for a range of conditions including Carpel Tunnel Syndrome and Repetitive Strain Injury whilst allowing full finger movement meaning it is particularly useful during sports and work related activities. The wrist brace is kept securely in place with Velcro fasteners. One size fits most and can be used on either wrist.

Also above is The Aircast Ankle Cryo/Cuff Kit with Cooler. The ultimate ankle ice therapy/cryotherapy device. Combines the therapeutic benefits of controlled compression to minimise bleeding and swelling, and cold to minimise pain. The Ankle Cryo/Cuff with Cooler is an easy to use device that circulates ice cold water to provide cold therapy in the treatment of injury. Many elite athletes including soccer players use this product to cool inflamed tissues. Recreational athletes can also benefit from using this product. They are most commonly used following ankle and foot injuries (such as sprains and ligament damage and including Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome) also following foot/ankle surgery . The Cooler element is Universal to all Cryo/Cuff models. The Cryo/Cuff Cooler holds water and ice needed for six to eight hours of cryotherapy. The durable cooler comes with a tube assembly and insulation disk and is labelled with simple-to-follow directions for use. The Ankle Cryo/Cuff with Cooler is one-size for adults.