Re: don't want AFOs or braces to show

[Guest guest]

Bobbie,

I totally understand how you feel. I was diagnosed at 22, just when I was really

dating and being like any other 20 something. When I got my handicapped plates

for driving, I would only use the hanging card because I didn't want to drive

with handicap plates, yet be seen with braces.

I am now 43. What I have learned over the years, is that we are more aware of

our braces and " handicap " then others are. I am still single and still go out to

clubs. I now wear my braces all the time. I am still paranoid about wearing them

in the summer with my shorts, but now I just walk with my head held high and

people seem to be in such awe that we can handle so much more in life than those

that are able bodied. Do what makes life easier for you and then hold your head

up high with a big smile and people will wonder what THEY are doing wrong!

Jackie

[Guest guest]

You just have to get used to wearing them and how they help you. I've seen

several ladies, I'm assuming you're a lady, who were wearing metal braces

with running shoes. There really isn't that much to a metal AFO, just two

uprights and the band around your calf, and the braces can be dipped in flesh

colored material so they really don't just stick out. I think you would stick

out much more if you were trying to walk around without your AFOs than if you

were wearing some metal ones.

[Guest guest]

Bobbie,

I am a 58 year old man and have been wearing plastic AFOs for 22 years now. I

too felt like you and wanted to cover the braces by using an outer pair of

socks. Then a few years ago I decided it was not worth it in the summer heat and

stopped double socking. It feels much better and I have not noticed a single

person looking at them.

Even my friends and co-workers said nothing. I know a girl that had her AFOs

colored stain glass which is multi-colored, she liked the look. Wish I had

started do it from the beginning. I still use the outer sock in cold weather to

help keep my feet warm. Go for it, I'm sure you will adjust to it in a few days,

I did.

Bob

[Guest guest]

I think you get over the vanity issue after awhile. I know I did. I've

been wearing plastic AFOs for 2 1/2 years now, and wear shorts in the

summer. I still can't bring myself to wear skirts, though. I feel tennis shoes

just don't go with skirts.

K.

[Guest guest]

K.,

Have you thought about metal braces? Then you could get some shoes to

wear that would look better with your skirts. There are so many more shoes

that will work with metal braces than plastic ones. I know I have both.

Bob