My name is Norman and I am 55years old, I have been suffering from arthritis of the feet and ankles since my mid-thirties. As a result of this condition, I have undergone a number of surgical procedures with the end result being arthrodesis of the right ankle and subtalar joints, meaning that my right foot is fixed at a right angle and does not have movement except in the midfoot area.
As a result of this, I require a rocker insole to be fitted into my right shoe; this is to assist forward movement when walking. During the last few years, I have found it more difficult to walk with some sort of normality.
In April this year (2014), I read an article on the Northern Ireland Foot & Ankle Clinic based in Glengormley. The article related to a rocker insole which fits inside the shoe, and is made to measure. I contacted the clinic and made an appointment. During the consultation, I discovered that when walking I was unconsciously forcing myself forward when stepping through on my right foot. A mould was taken off my right foot.
A week later my rocker insole was ready, it was inserted into my shoe, it took a few days to get used to it but once I did it became comfortable to walk again. The rocker insole assisted with the stepping through when I was walking taking the pressure off my lower back, right hip and knees. I certainly won’t be running marathons anytime soon but as for everyday use but this little piece of assistance provided by the Northern Ireland Foot & Ankle Clinic is invaluable; it really makes life a lot easier and a lot more comfortable!
Sincere Thanks
Norman