Written 22nd April 2009

At last I've found the name for the condition I have in my feet. Its called Plantar Fascilitis. I was given the name for this about 2 or 3 years ago by my diabetic consultant at the hospital, but for the life of me couldn't remember the official medical name, so called it heel spur as I was also told that's what it was known as.

Today for the first time I understand whats going on with my feet and happy to know that it can be treated. Suprise! often brought on by excessive overweight.

My concern has been to worry about not being about to use the treadmill or to do any brisk walking as a form a exercise as my feet were not up to it. Too much pain. I'll have to see if I can get some night splints on the NHS, doubt it as I've never heard of them before today, and some daytime foot treatment. Anything that will enable me to walk without support would be great news. If not, I'll have to look into getting these myself, probably about ?100 in total it think. This condition is interfering in my tai chi as I have to take time out when my feet start to pain me. I hate having to drop in and out of the group. The instructor/teacher thinks its because i'm out of breath, not at all - its my feet. I try to push through the pain, but its too hard.

Oh and I've decided to take up pilates exercise at home to work on my core. Funny enough, some of the exercises will address the plantar fascilitis. I've already got the exercise ball, got that early last year, picked it as it was cheap. lol, I've just sent off for a pilates mat and band.

I watched a few videos on youtube demonstrating the exercises and they seem doable. When I can't afford to visit the gym, I can still work on my arms. I've got bat wings already,so I need to firm up my muscles.

Also, when I've finished this, I've got a package downstairs with a few products that I wanted to try to see if I like them, low carb and sugar free products that i've bought on line.

Missed water aerobics yesterday for the first time (aunt mary from red hills visting). I'll be good to go for tai chi on Saturday though.

The worst days for me this week was Monday and Tuesday - guess why! To add to that, my sugar levels went totally out of control, rendering me helpless - stuck in bed.

However, today was a warm and sunny day so me and significant other took our 1yr old granddaughter to the park. She loved it so much. She's such a joy to watch. So today was my best day so far.

Toying with the idea of phoning the hospital to see if there is any news on my date. Should I tempt fate?

Hyacinth