ankle splint/support/AFO's

[nat05]

That is most impressive EG! I think you are right that there will need to be trial and error before the best option is found. How well does your skin cope with micropore or cohesive tape? Maybe you could try that as a barrier for the skin? I need to write in my diary to contact mr razzell dazzle.
xx

[Jess]

EG you could ask your GP for CAVALON FILM SPRAY and or to use as well with CAVALON CREAM. they are a barrier for the skin the film is brillent alittle bit better than the spray on plasters you can get, the cream helps mosturise the skin as well as help stopping the skin from braking down. I use the cream on my hands as a barrier between the vinyl gloves and my skin. and use it as a protector on my feet and ankles to stop them from falling apart with my AFOs and the general movement of my feet in my shoes.

[Englishgremlin1]

thanks for these replies - I will asking today about the options with the Cavalon. alas Miropore just takes my skin off, as do standard dressings. If seems that I get all the skin issues as well so that complicates things for me. I am seeing them this PM so hope to get some ideas then.

[nat05]

Good luck today Hope a solution can be found. I made an appointment to see my podiatrist and the soonest they had was 23rd July. Now my ankles have gone back in fully and i have changed the shoes i have been wearing things have been better.
xx

[Englishgremlin1]

I am a bit depressed. I saw the orthotists today and they say the ankle has very littel joint left - they are going to mould a custom AFO that will lock the ankle totally but they are not very confident it wll help. It will mean having to notify DLA but they only think even with that I will manage transfers and not even walking with a frame.

If this solution does not work then it will be no more weight bearing. They seem to be indicating that this is the most likely but are willing to give it a go.

[Rosie]

HI Gremlin

Not very good news for you.
I know you are usually quite down to earth about handling your condition but this is not news that anyone wants to hear. I am pleased that they are willing to try to sort your ankle out for you, it would be worse if they decided it wasn't worth a try.
On the plus side, will you be able to access more help/support if your ankle cannot weight bear?

Rosie

[Englishgremlin1]

Thanks Rosie - I am seeing the "adult Dissability Team" Social Worker at the end of the month and it may mean they re-assess and say I ned more than two hour help per day, I can see just a few options but the new AFO may help a bit.

I am also now thinking about the possibility of hand controls on the car to keep mobile but would love it if the new AFO's do in fact work.

[Sue New]

Hi Graham,

I am sorry to hear that the new AFO isn't helping. Fingers crossed the custom made rigid one does the trick for you

Thinking of you

Sue.

[Englishgremlin1]

Just got back form the csating for the ankle AFO - it will be knee length and black and stop all movement. Hopefully in about three weeks I will get the call to go and pick them up.

they have explined that it is not just the usual collagen stretching but the mechanics of both ankle joints are wrecked.

Now got three weeks to learn how to drive without using feet and adapt the wheelchairs, house and car to the new useless legs model.

[hannah]

Hi EG, just wanted to say I'm sorry things have got to this stage good luck making the adaptations, and hopefully once they are done you will be able have an improved standard of living from where you are now
Hannah

[Jess]

I have been given Trulife Sure Step ankle splints.
The look like Richies but not moulded under the foot. I'm going to give them a try but got a feeling they are going to be too bulky around the leg as they have a .5cm neoprine linker on each side.

Will give them a few weeks, but has anyone tried them before???

[Jess]

Well the sure step trulife afo's arent too bad! i can do a whole shift on them (8hours)with feet slightly moaning at the end.

But have found i have to be carful with what foot wear use, not too tight around the ankle. but has given me bit more freedom on the foot wear i can use converse like trainers, not high tops.

the only problem is that they take some time to put on not good when i have to do the 6:30 get up for the bus at 6:50, I guess i will have to get up alittle earlier.darn.

I have worn them about 4times now and not bad, still waiting for the super swelling to happen but hasnt happend yet.

[Englishgremlin1]

That is great news Jess.

[Englishgremlin1]

Just been told my nakle AFO's should be ready for me within 2 weeks - so progress there. Dreading the locked ankls but hey ho that is life.

A bit of advice needed from other users - how do you stop your ankles swelling up inside them? Any magic creams anyone has discovered?

[Jess]

EG try pure aloe vera, arnica cream (i know its for brusing but it does help) Body shop mint foot spray, cold socks, from the fridge or freezer. make sure when you or your carers put them on make sure you have a finger in between the foot/leg and the strap when you do them up as it will compensate for the normal daily swelling.

I know you aregetting a funky new chairso when you have a chance tip you chair back as it can help reduce the swelling.