When I go out I can not help but notice all of the cute shoes that would cause me discomfort. I have no idea how Lady Gaga wears all of those crazy shoe designs. I give kudos to her…She is picking up our slack, ladies!
Finding shoes that are fashionable and comfortable is one of my reoccurring problems. Seeing as high heels are completely uncomfortable with my arthritis, I always stick to flats. But, even this style shoe can cause discomfort. Although it is easier to run out and pick up a pair of cute black heels or flats, it is crucial that you put your RA at the top of your priority list. Searching for this perfect shoe, however, is much more difficult that you would think.
To give you an idea, last month I spent an entire week in Portland, Oregon looking for something comfortable, with arch and ankle support, and with a cheque, slim look. First, I went to the store shoe clerk asking to be directed to the supportive shoe section. Do not spend your time “ooh”-ing and “ahh”-ing at the cutest heels–you can’t wear them. Next, to see how supportive these shoes are, I would try to bend them in half. If you can bend any shoe in half, there is not enough support, ever. The store managers hate when I do this, but I’m sure they would hate it even more so if I was to wear their shoe and bring it back in used. If you are investing your money, the pair needs to be a ten! When I decide they are worthy of trying on, I take a walk around the store with them on. If the pair is not already in a dark charcoal, or black, I ask for that color. Even though your shoes may be a bit bulkier than most “going-out” shoes, black will always illustrate a slimmer look.
The shoes I purchased in Portland, OR are made by BORN. I have been wearing this brand for years and always invest in a new pair. They are well made and last forever. Indeed, they are comfortable,but truly trendy!
This post made me laugh because I can relate to it so much! I’ve never really been able to wear heels because my (J)RA ankles are so weak and damaged. I even used to wear bulky orthopedic shoes growing up…pretty trendy right!
These days I opt for padded flats or sneakers which are the most comfortable for me when walking. It’s a little weird when I’m at a formal event and I’m the only young woman in flats/sandals, while everyone else towers over me in their 5-inch heels! I’ve even had persons come up to me and ask why I’m not wearing heels like all the other young women. They’re just shoes people!
But you’re so right. Having JRA means our priorities have to be different. The challenge I often have is getting other persons to understand that :\ I’m just grateful for the days I’m able to walk, no matter what shoe is on my foot.
Thanks for writing about this. I’ve never heard of Born but will check them out. Take care!
I think that what you published was actually very
reasonable. However, what about this? suppose you added a little information?
I mean, I don’t want to tell you how to run your website, but suppose you added something that grabbed people’s attention?
I mean P is for the Perfect Pair of Shoes | The Juicy Joint for Rheumatoid Arthritis is kinda plain. You ought to look at Yahoo’s front page and note how they create news titles to grab people to click. You might add a video or a related pic or two to get people excited about what you’ve
got to say. Just my opinion, it would bring your blog a little livelier.
I appreciate your honesty and criticism. This is my first blog and quite the learning experience! I would like to change the design but am just learning how to use design programs and coding. I will definitely ask my professors for some help! Thank you
What’s up, I read your blog daily. Your story-telling style is witty, keep up the good work!