Shoe Question

[Guest guest]

Hello all,

Like many people with CMT, I have an extremely difficult time finding

shoes that fit. I wear a 5.5 to 6 with an E width. When I do find

shoes that fit right, I have a major problem with them rolling

outward (like my feet do). When this happens and the shoe changes

its shape, it makes my problem SO much worse by making it even easier

for my feet to roll out.

A few years ago, at the suggestion of an orthopedic surgeon, I tried

lateral sole wedges inside my shoes. The results were DISASTROUS! I

felt like the muscles/tendons in my feet were actually tearing off of

the bone.

Well anyway, I just bought a pair of New Balance shoes and the

pedorthist suggested putting " flares " on the outer part of my shoes

to help keep them from rolling outward. Does anyone have any

experience with " flares? " I looked at some and they seem to me like

they might help as long as the bottom of the shoe is left flat.

It seems crazy that I have so many problems because of ill-fitted

shoes. But I honestly believe that the easiest thing for me to do to

help my CMT situation is to have some sort of shoes made. I have had

boots made in the past, but I need athletic-type shoes that are light

and provide support. I have searched the Internet extensively for

some type of shoemaker, etc. But I have found nothing that seems

suitable. I have tried the PW Minor shoes that are so highly touted,

but they don't fit well and provide little support. Does anyone have

any suggestions I might try?

Any help is appreciated.

Thanks

[Guest guest]

I know what you mean about shoes that fit AND let us continue on with our

life. I feel my feet are deteriorating and have accepted the fact that I will

never be able to wear heels again. I have found that the clog type shoes that

Merrill makes are wonderful. They are called Primos and you can go their

website to see what they look like. They are very light but they also come in a

soft leather, too. I love them! I can almost walk completely normal in them and

even better, after a lot of walking, my back does not pay the price the next

day.

Karon

[Guest guest]

Hi Rob,

I know of a couple of CMTers who have had custom-made shoes or boots for some

years and they swear by them. They seem to last for a long time, making the

initial cost less daunting. One would have to find an expert shoemaker. I don't

know how common they are, but perhaps you would be fortunate.

Have you tried AFOs? I don't have them, but I understand that they can

stabilize the feet and keep them from rolling (if they are chosen and fitted

correctly).

I know it's a serious problem. Good luck.

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Kat

Seattle WA USA