GAMECHANGER FOOTGEAR
FROM WISE MOM – I was about to give up on tennis until I found some “gamechanger” footgear. As I got older the impact of competition was really doing a number on my feet. Then last year, during a doubles match at the state tournament, I sensed a weakness and slight pain in my right foot, while moving around the court. By the time the match was over I limped off the court with my right foot very sore and swollen. The pain was so bad I began thinking that this may be the end. I would finally have to give up playing competitive tennis.
My first trip to get help was to my family doctor who diagnosed stress fractures in my metatarsal bones, prescribing one of those big moon boots to wear for a month or so. After wearing the boot for weeks and trying to get back into normal activity, there was not much improvement. My doctor then referred me to an orthopedic foot doctor who reconfirmed my metatarsal diagnosis,
I remember saying to the physician’s assistant that I might have to give up tennis. She looked at me, smiled and assured me, “No, we have a way to get you back on the court!” She then gave me a plan that has been delivering amazing results to those playing high impact sports and for me too!
The doctor and his physician’s assistant directed me to a regimen consisting of running shoes and shoe inserts to replace the big orthopedic moon boot that was expensive, difficult to say the least, and also it was not helping me very much anyway. With the specialist’s plan, my results were so amazing that I’m sharing with you the complete list of the footgear I employed.
This solution costs a little money but is worth it because it works. And, it is still far less expensive than the boot and repeated visits to doctors and specialists. At this point I am super happy with these amazing light weight inserts and shoes with unbelievable support. And, I’m am pleased to report to you that my foot problems are solved, and I’m now playing competitive tennis (doubles and singles) at the highest level I’ve ever played!
1_ In the early days of my recovery I totally discarded the big bulky moon boot in favor of the Inov-8 Women’s Roadclaw 275 V2 Fashion Sneakers. Wearing this shoe with Aetrex inserts, this arrangement totally freed me from the orthopedic boot, and actually accelerated my recovery even faster than the boot ever did!
2_ The orthopedic shoe inserts are Aetrex. They can be sized for any shoe that allows an insert and further customizes the shoe to your foot. My metatarsal stress fractures indicated the need for the L805W09 Lynco Train inserts for regular wear and the L705W09 Lynco Speed inserts for high impact sports like tennis. Both insert types are designed specifically to take pressure off the metatarsal bones, my issue.
3_ For ongoing footwear, I chose the Women’s on Cloud 2.0 running sneaker for women. For everyday wear this is my go-to model of shoes. Remember to use the L705W09 Lynco Speed inserts, especially if you are nursing and injury, but they also work great for ongoing foot health.
4_ When I wear sandals I opt for the Aetrex Women’s Orthotic Flip Flops for informal settings or to wear around the house. Try them…they are a great option! So, I have three pairs of the Aetrex flip flops, a gray for inside and, for trips out, a colorful watermelon color and then a neutral black as well. All helping my feet to be happy and healthy.
5_ When I want to dress up my wardrobe a bit, I choose the more stylish Aetrex Leather Sandals. Not only are these shoes super-effective for foot health, but Aetrex also has other appropriate, and comfortable styles for all occasions and seasons.
6_ For competition or high impact activities I use the K-Swiss Women’s Hypercourt Express tennis shoe, again coupled with the L705W09 Lynco Speed inserts. I have no doubt that if I continue this new maintenance plan using inserts and appropriate shoes, I am back in business, both for now and for the future.
7_ And, finally, a GREAT “hint for home” when it’s a little chilly or cold is the cozy and warm animal print bedroom slipper by VIONIC called the Vionic Women’s Gemma Mule Slipper in the Natural Leopard color. I live in this “comfort with support” slipper all winter. All these great products have kept me on the court! By the way, I am playing the best tennis of my life!
