Lymphedema Support Group

Lymphedema is a condition of localized fluid retention caused by a compromised lymphatic system. The lymphatic system (often referred to as the body's "second" circulatory system) collects and filters the interstitial fluid of the body. Lymphedema has been barely recognized as being a serious health problem; however, this is slowly changing due to education and awareness.

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Annery 01/21/2009

It is Annery again.

I seem to have alot to talk about. For those of you that are suffering from lympedema of the feet. Dont you struggle to find the right size of your shoes. Well i do. At the moment i have only two types of slippers. I cannot wear closed shoes it causes pain. I have been searching for the right size.

Young peole out there. When you do want to look good what type of shoes do you put on? I have been social withdraw due to that. When people are going to parties and events like that. What should i wear with my my beautiful dress. Or perhaps i just have low confidence. Looking good makes one feel good about themselves especially when you are still young. I always wear long dresses or trousers to hide my legs.

deleted_user 01/22/2009

Annery, I have one foot that's larger than the other, though both legs are affected. I buy shoes to fit the larger foot. I find that sandal types work better because they can be adjusted. It's important though to have good stability too. I wear my skirts & dresses longer and wear pants which have wide legs or the Palazzo type. I think we're more aware and notice it more than others do. Are you familiar with NLN, National Lymphedema Network? You can find them on the web at www.lymphnet.org. Check it out-they publish a quarterly newsletter which is informational and many other resources as well. All the best, Trish

deleted_user 01/24/2009

Hi Annery
I have total body Lymphedema with a very active career that demands that I dress well all of time. I found that wearing backless shoes or open toe (in the summer) helps out alot. For dressing up, you can find slingbacks with a lower heel. They have running shoes without backs and all other sorts of shoes. Search the net and even payless. I am here if you need me.
Patti

deleted_user 01/30/2009

I have problems wearing any type of shoes,I work at night and sit most of the time for 12 hours seven nights a week,my left ankle gets the size of my calf,no kidding,and it hurts so bad that I have to take fluid pills when I get home and I get hardly any eat due to having to urinate all morning,and about the shoes,I just get a size larger,it is better than getting true to size...Be well..C

deleted_user 02/17/2009

I had the same problem with shoes. I have to dress professionally for work, and this was very difficult to do. Even shoes that I bought big would be so tight by the afternoon, that I would end up taking them off.
Now I purchase all my shoes at Zappos.com, they have stylish and comfortable shoes at very wide widths.

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