Forrest Gump was right: “There’s an awful lot you can tell about a person by their shoes.” Call me crazy, but the shoes I’m here to tell you about are pure magic.
I used to be an avid soccer player and sports lover. During the middle of high school, I developed a severe pain in my left foot that dramatically ended my career. I continued to attend daily practices and even played a handful of games on the injury, but eventually needed to go get it checked out. The initial doctor’s appointment determined absolutely nothing. I was sent home with an Ace bandage and instructions to ice as much as possible. “Thanks for nothing,” I thought.
Over the course of several weeks, my injury continued to worsen. I returned for a follow-up with more tests. Four different X-Rays and two MRIs provided a clearer picture: I had fractured the 3 middle metatarsals on my left foot. Stress fractures are not initially captured through X-rays because of their minute size. Rather than popping up early, these injuries are indicated on images approximately 4-6 weeks after an initial break through lines of calcified bone.
After 3 months in a cast, 16 weeks in a boot, and 3 separate rounds of physical therapy, I was still experiencing terrible pain. I could hardly walk half a mile without wincing. Six different orthopedic doctors couldn’t determine why I hadn’t fully healed. I desperately needed relief, and I needed it fast. Two of the doctors prescribed some custom-made orthotics, which were a God-send. However, my feet quickly grew acquainted to their minimal support in a couple of weeks and suddenly lost their effectiveness. I continued to wear them, but my left foot still wasn’t healed.
My grandma has been a QVC addict for as long as I can remember. Her infatuation passed on to my mother and fortunately passed right along to me, as well. I fondly recall several moments from my childhood where legends like Lisa Robertson and Amy Stran were up on the television screen debuting Vera Wang’s dresses and Chaz Dean’s hair products. This channel captivates audiences of many with six easy payments and free shipping and handling. ANYWAYS: one day, my parents were channel surfing and momentarily paused on QVC to watch a pitch about Vionic shoes. They were instantly intrigued and called me downstairs to check it out.
Vionic shoes boast in being the “most supportive shoe brand…ever.” Designed with Vio-Motion™ Support, their products contain three-zones of stability, arch support, and cushioning. These custom insoles promote natural alignment for not only your feet, but your entire leg. All shoes contain this same support, which you can physically feel when wearing their products. They are also trusted and sealed with approval by the American Podiatric Medical Association.
Their professional website is beautifully organized. Products are paired with health guides to help shoppers locate the perfect shoe for their orthopedic struggles. Some may be looking for relief from plantar fasciitis, while others may be seeking support for heel pain. If you feel their shoes are too pricey, they also sell their orthotics separately so you can place them in shoes you already own. Whatever your need, Vionic staff is available 24/7 to provide assistance.
After purchasing my first pair, I wore them constantly. I broke in my navy city-sneaks immediately and proceeded to strut them around school for the entire week. Over time, I acquired three more pairs: light pink lace-up sneakers, teal blue waterproof boots, and sleek black heeled booties. All four cuties have become regular rotations with my everyday outfits. Thanks to Vionic, I can now report that my left foot has walked without chronic pain for two full years. I will forever attribute its healing to this wonderful brand. While they don’t claim to be miracle workers, that’s how I’ll view them.
Just like Marilyn Monroe said, “give a girl the right shoes and she can conquer the world.” Take my word for it – these are the right shoes that will leave you feeling pain-free and invincible.
**CAVEAT: If you consider trying this brand, make sure to only wear them for a few hours at a time as you break them in. Your body needs several days to adapt to their biomechanical orthotic technology.