Patient Testimonials

I have been living with foot drop due to Multiple Sclerosis for several years.  Even though I tried other braces, including one custom made for me, I had to hike less and stopped running completely because of the foot drop.  A friend introduced me to the SpryStep and I worked with an orthotist to get the right shoe, insert and fit.  Even though I have only had the SpryStep a short time I have hiked hundreds of miles with it.  I am currently planning a hike of the 2,200 mile Appalachian Trail.  I’m also signed up for a marathon this fall.  The SpryStep offers a great combination of flexibility and strength to keep my stride balanced and comfortable.   I’m looking forward to many more adventures ahead because of the SpryStep!

Having contracted Paralytic Polio at nine months of age, means that I have learned a lot about braces over the decades since my diagnosis. The braces that I have, and continue to work best for me, are made by Thuasne USA / Townsend, and have been for many years.  Without their superior knee braces (I have worn the Rebel and Premier) I would never have been able to hike the miles that I have, (as many as 18 a week), which has led to my left leg regaining an extraordinary amount of muscle. They work darned well for me in the vertical realm as well!

I once saw a PPS specialist in San Francisco in the early 90's whose advice to me was to use a power chair, stop exercising, and give up climbing. I shudder to think where I'd be if I had taken his less than sage advice.  And my heart goes out to those who have listened to this narrative, and now deal with high blood pressure, diabetes and joint and back issues, poor muscle tone, pressure sores and more. For myself, the best part of each day is embracing the possibilities that exist, rather than focusing on the very real limitations imposed upon me by my less than robust health and many physical limitations.  Though I have a propensity for stumbling, and some of those stumbles have led to falls, I try to make getting out for my hiking pole assisted hikes 5 days a week a priority.  Post-Polio Syndrome dictates to me that I must work diligently to maintain a balance between rest and activity. Between rest and activity, I prefer ACTIVITY.

I began climbing in 1977 and have ascended El Capitan 23 times, not something I imagined for my 65 year old self when I first stood on top of it in 1990.  So whatever your personal El Capitan is; do not be dissuaded by naysayers, do not be disheartened by setbacks, and do not listen to the voice in your head that tells you that giving up is an option because what you are doing is difficult.  Life is difficult for everyone.  The greatest meaning in life can be found by embracing the struggle.  And, you might inspire someone else along the path to realizing your goals and dreams.

I ran the Salinas Valley Half Marathon this past weekend. This was my first half marathon with my beautiful SpryStep and it performed wonderfully! I wish I did just as well. ????

It was a hot and hilly race. It was full sun, arid conditions with rolling hills and a big 200 foot climb over one mile. The SpryStep did well. I was able to use my calf to push up the hill and I think I received good energy return.

I have run over 120 miles with the SpryStep and completed five 5K races. No chaffing, no bruising, no cuts with my SpryStep. I have several more races planned this year and a full schedule in 2019. My SpryStep gives me a lot of confidence.
Cheryl

If you want to be inspired, check out Cheryl’s blog about her Dynamic AFO the Custom SpryStep

Before I started wearing the Dynamic KAFO I struggled to walk… even with crutches. After Peter, my orthotist, fit me with a Townsend Custom Dynamic KAFO I have been over the top happy! I can get around so much easier and do things I couldn’t do before. I just returned from a family vacation where I was able to go horseback riding, four-wheeling (really fast) and boating.

Thank you Townsend for giving me back my mobility!

After 2 meniscus ortho's , 20,000+ steps per day for the last 23 years and cortisone shots needed every 4 months I was assuming it was time for a knee. At 45 years old I thought it seemed a bit early but my xrays revealed bone on bone and some osteoarthritis on the inside of my left knee. Very painful and slowing me down way too much, as I was gaining weight and my ambition and normal high energy lifestyle was slipping away. My Doc recommended me consulting with Steve Smith from Select Orthopedics in Seattle. He travels up to northern Puget Sound a few times a month and during one of my now routine cortisone shots, Steve was in my Doc's office and saw me on the fly. Long story short, my knee pain is gone! 100% gone and my right hip that had arthritis developing from it compensating for my right knee is almost pain free as well. My walking is smoother and posture is improved dramatically. Amazingly, I can't remember the last time I took ibuprofen! I am and always have been a predictably cautious person and one whom usually does a great deal of research before trying anything. And I don't think I have ever done an online testimonial, so clearly this brace has been a game changer for me. The brace is very comfortable and I really don't feel like I'm wearing it. If you have similar symptoms, I couldn't recommend this more.