Curling toes

A frequent symptom of Parkinson's is the curling of one's toes. Apparently this toe curling is more common amongst Young Onset Parkinson's patients, occurring on the side of the body that is prominently effected. The spasms are part of dystonia which can cause the toes to curl in an uncomfortable claw-like position. My toes, curiously only on the left foot seem to have a mind of their own, and uncontrollably want to clench and curl all the time, making it jolly difficult to walk. No sooner have I attempted to straighten them; they resume their curled position once more. Wearing socks with closed shoes helps somewhat with this problem, but now the warmer weather is here, sandals make this pesky Parkinson's difficulty worse. I have yet to find a way of wearing sandals and keeping my toes straight. If any patient has some suggestions or helpful tips regarding this annoying symptom - please do let me know.

I got rid of my high heeled shoes a few years ago, realising I would not be able to wear them again. This morning I found one last pair, tucked away in the back of my wardrobe like some guilty secret. I'm afraid I haven't thrown them out yet - I didn't have the heart to. They are my last piece of evidence that I once wore stiletto high heels, and could elegant walk, or dance like anyone else. I know it sounds silly, but I can't bring myself to remove them. Maybe next week I'll come to my senses and throw out these shoes that I will never wear again.

My latest HuffingtonPost article about 'Sexuality and Disability' is now up on-line if you'd like to take a look.