Heels from Hell

I should know better by now. I wear sneakers or comfortable shoes daily, but of course I had to push the envelope for my cousin’s wedding. Bloated, uncomfortable and angry that nothing I brought home for the wedding looked good I borrowed my stepmom’s heels. I thought wearing the shoes would make me feel better about myself. Boy was I wrong.

Pain is a funny thing. You quickly forget how horrific pain can be - but just like that it comes back and reminds you just how awful it is. I should know better. Since I was diagnosed with RA, I have worn a pair of wedges and a pair of sling back stilettos for fancy occasions. But even on my best days with the most comfortable pair of shoes nothing feels good after standing hours on my feet.

My advice to others is (and to myself is):

Never borrow a pair of shoes – if they aren’t yours, chances are they won’t be comfortable. It’s just not worth it. My entire body hurt for two days after the occasion. I’m 29 and I felt 90.

My advice. No matter how comfortable your shoes are, bring a pair of flats to slip on when or before the pain starts. No need to have heels on the entire night. Nothing is fun if you are in pain.

Trust me. If your pain feels like a knife going through your foot before an occasion you have no business wearing heels in the first place.

Ice is key. For pain, swelling or anything in between ice always helps me.

Moving forward – flats is the way to go. There is no need to spend two days in bed because you thought you had to wear heels. Lesson learned.

In the words of the late fabulous Maya Angelou: “When you know better you do better.” Now I know.

asbRA was diagnosed with RA in November 2012 at the age of 28 and fibromyalgia in 2013. Through therapy and MBSR meditation asbRA found her calling in journaling her experience and is writing a book on how to navigate an RA diagnosis in the prime of one’s life. As a strong advocate in the autoimmune community asbRA shares her wisdom in hopes of helping others.