[penpal]

I was dreading going to the mall today to do my Christmas shopping as I haven't been there for almost a year. I've had a sore foot for several years after I badly sprained it and arthritis set in . It's always been an ordeal walking the length of the mall and back to do my shopping. Anyway, I managed to walk all the way the the end shops and back and my foot was only slightly sore. I'm hoping it will get even better when I reach my goal weight .

This is the first time I've walked a long way since I lost 30 lbs. I've been very protective of my foot and haven't attempted to walk far for a while because it's always given out on me and I've had to limp back.

Another good "side effect" of losing weight!

Only thing is - my arms are about 2" longer from carrying all the bags and packages

[icmethinner]

That is so awesome! I am very happy for you! I know how hard it can be to try to get very far with a sore foot - I had plantar fasciitis for over a year until my foot finally fractured and I had to be in a cast for months! It's wonderful that you have been able to lose weight while having a foot problem to begin with!

Congratulations - I know you must feel so happy that you were able to get done what you needed to do without being held up by your foot!

[penpal]

Thanks!

I never appreciated what it was like to just go and walk somewhere until I hurt my foot. Obviously, you've been there I hope your foot is ok now.

I've been working out 3x a week at Curves for 2 years now. It's been really great for me as it's basically a low-impact workout and it has made me a lot stronger in my arms and legs.

[Elder Elf]

I too went to the mall today with a sore foot. I don't know what the matter is, but I am glad to see you have lost weight with a bad foot. there is hope for me.
Now I have seen everything. I am used to Air Plane seat being "snug", and some clothing stores being packed too closely, but today I experienced the shrinking toilet stall. It was only about 6 inches bigger on both sides than my ample hips. And they wonder why we use the handicap stall.
This must be my sore feet talking.

But seriously, congratulations on the first mall walking exerience. Keep it us, you are encouraging me.

[penpal]

I know what you mean about those narrow stalls . I think even normal-weight people have problems banging their elbows! I hope your foot gets better. It's a good incentive to lose weight to see if it helps your foot. I feel sorry for elderly people I see out shopping who are using a walker or a walking stick - some people push past them because they are in a hurry. I didn't realize how hard it is to do ordinary things when you have a disability until I hurt my foot.

My orthopedist recommended having my ankle bones "fused" but I couldn't bring myself to have the surgery as I heard it doesn't always work and I could end up worse off. I'm glad I waited now.

At one time, when I had a very hard time walking, my husband said I should get a disabled parking permit but I guess my pride wouldn't let me do it, plus there are people out there much worse off who need it more.

I'm going to try to do a bit more walking and see how it goes .