I've been very frustrated the past several years because I haven't been able to walk more than 10 -15 minutes without severe pain from arthritis in my left ankle (from an old injury). My orthopedic specialist said I'd eventually need to get the foot bones fused as there was little or no cartilage left. I could walk ok if I took Vioxx, but that's been banned and I didn't want to take similar medications because of health risks.
Anyway, about two weeks ago I went for a Japanese foot massage (we were at the coast and my foot hurt so bad I couldn't even enjoy a stroll on the beach) and the therapist taught me how to do some lymphatic drainage massage on my foot and also advised me to put an ice pack on my foot after walking. Also, he mentioned that alternating hot and cold footbaths would help get the swelling down (don't try this if you have diabetes or circulation problems).
I did all this for several days and I'm pleased to report that I've been walking 45 - 60 min. each day for the past week! Yay!
I've been busy discovering all the great walking trails near where we live. I'm hoping this extra exercise will help me get the scale moving in the right direction again. I hope this keeps up - it's almost too good to be true!
Finally able to go for walks again!
