Ruth’s story: How custom orthotic footwear improved her balance and mobility

Ruth is a professional music teacher who also does a lot of stage work. She was originally prescribed custom-made splints and footwear through the NHS, but she never felt confident wearing them.

The footwear had been adapted with an additional platform. However, Ruth’s turned foot continued to roll over, causing her to fall regularly.

“They just didn’t feel right,” she said.

Ruth has dystonia and neuropathy. Previous medical tests also found that she had no reflexes and experienced muscle wasting associated with her condition.

Her neuropathy makes her feet red, sensitive and prone to infection, particularly when they become hot or damp. Ruth therefore needs open footwear that allows air to circulate around her feet.

However, the footwear available to her through the NHS was closed. Ruth says this caused her feet to become extremely wet, sometimes leaving moisture inside her shoes, and contributed to repeated infections. She had also been advised that cuts to her feet might take longer to heal because of her neuropathy.

Frustrated by the limitations of her footwear and her ongoing balance difficulties, Ruth began researching other options. She found several clinics but chose LOC Cambridge because it was the easiest location for her to reach. She had also watched some of our videos on YouTube.

Orthotic assessment at LOC Cambridge

At LOC Cambridge, Ruth was assessed by orthotist Connor Mumford. During the assessment, Connor found that Ruth’s existing ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) were too short and were cutting into her muscles. This meant they were not providing the support she needed.

Ruth had trusted that the devices provided through the hospital were suitable. Connor explained his concerns and wrote to her consultant to request that they be remade.

Ruth had been wearing the ill-fitting AFOs for several months, and possibly for more than a year, without realising that they might be contributing to her instability.

She also explained that her previous footwear caused abrasions on the top of her left foot, where she has a raised joint. As both of her ankles are immobile, she cannot bend her feet to slide them into conventional shoes.

“I might not have stylish shoes like everyone else, but I’m much happier. My balance is better, my hip is in place and I can walk much better for short distances around the house. I’m really pleased with the results and have ordered a second pair.”

Walking remains challenging for Ruth, and neuropathic pain means she can only manage short distances. However, her new footwear has helped her feel more stable and confident around her home.

Carbon fibre ankle foot orthoses and adaptive footwear

Connor worked closely with Ruth to create adaptive footwear and orthoses that addressed her needs.

He prescribed carbon fibre AFOs, positioning the straps so they avoided the raised joint on her left foot. He also designed footwear that Ruth could step into more easily without needing to bend her ankles.

The shoes were made as open as possible to allow air to circulate around her feet and help reduce the risk of infection. They were also designed with a slope to support Ruth’s balance and reduce her risk of falling.

The carbon fibre AFOs provide the strength and support Ruth needs to feel more stable.

Feeling more confident

Ruth noticed a difference as soon as she began wearing her new footwear and correctly fitted orthoses.

She says she has stopped falling, her alignment has improved and her hips feel more level. Her posture has also improved, and she now feels much more confident walking short distances around her home. She adapted to the new footwear and orthoses quickly.

Book an orthotic assessment in Cambridge

If you’re experiencing difficulties with your footwear or orthoses, our team can assess your needs and discuss the options available to you.