I have suffered years of sore toes and have been putting off contacting health services for fear of being offered surgery that would put me out of action for weeks or months, or no advice at all. I am very active and my fitness is vital to my mental health and who I am.
I was persuaded to make contact and start the process but was very anxious about the appointment, and what I would be told. I easily could have cancelled and continued to suffer in silence.
I explained my worries to the Podiatrist who listened, asked broader questions about my lifestyle and activities - and then conducted a thorough examination of my feet and toes - and very clearly spelled out my condition (Hallux Rigidus), the outlook and then the options in front of "us" (her care and me the patient) on what could be done to make the pain bearable.
I trusted her - and we will now embark on a series of adjustments to see if these work (insoles, change of footwear, pain relief) and she plans to call me back in 12 weeks to check-in on progress. I know there is no magic cure but I also know an operation, whilst possible, is the last resort and will not fix my condition.
I am relieved as I cannot stand the thought of 6+ weeks away from exercise and activity. But I have a number of actions to take that could reduce the pain I feel every time I take a step.
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