It's on the outside of my left foot, below and a little forward or my ankle. And it's close to the skin. Every two and a half months it starts hurting (after my cortisone shot wears off). I try to wait a full three month in between shots. Partially because it costs me some money, and partially because I don't want to go. It hurts...a lot.
I also get a shot around my talarnavicular joint because the beaking has become so pronounced that it is affecting the soft tissue around it.
But I can only tolerate the shots for so long, so I am probably looking at another surgery again. I had it scheduled for this year, but decided I could put it off for another year. I need to start thinking about it again. And blogging about it again.
Must have for foot surgery, Knee Walkers!
As I visit the surgeon for the shots I have started to see people coming in on what are called "knee walkers" I've added a picture at the bottom of this post. Basically you kneel your "bad" leg on the pad and scoot along with your good leg. It's really like a scooter.
I've GOT to have one of these the next time I have surgery. This beats walkers and crutches. It's more stable. It's more convenient. And it's more comfortable.
When you're using walkers or crutches, you lift your bad foot off the ground to protect it. Trust me, if you lose your balance, you WILL put your bad foot down instinctively. And it does not feel good. But a knee walker will prevent that.
Crutches make your armpits hurt if you don't use them correctly. And even if you do use them right, your hands and arm muscles will get tired and sore. Again, not an issue with the knee walker.
I have talked to people about them and they love them. The only complaint is that their back sometimes get tired from being in that position for too long.
Anyway, if you haven't seen or heard of these, you have now. You should definitely look into it. Your insurance or health plan may even cover part or all of the cost, depending on your insurance.
