Lessons from my foot

I have been dealing with a stress fracture in my right foot for about a year now.  I have been to the doctor, the specialist, and  the physical therapist many times.  I have had an MRI .   I wear orthotics and and do stretches as instructed.  I ice my foot in the morning, when I get home from school, and most evenings.  I learned that my right leg is not straight and that I have been landing improperly on my foot my whole life.  It is not healed.  It is better, but not healed.

I have been a walker for about 17 years.  Until I realized I had a stress fracture I walked 45 minutes about 5 days a week for exercise.  Now I limit myself to 30 minutes to keep my foot "happy."  I have had to make some changes to my life and my routine to accommodate my foot.  I bought an exercise bike and use it some days.

I have learned to be patient.  I have learned to adjust.  I carefully choose shoes for their fit not their style.  My specialist recommended Saucony brand sneakers.  I have worn out several pairs.  I have learned to plan my walks and to factor in the weather more than ever.  I have learned to enjoy the small "steps"  (pun intended) as I walk into the future.