Re: Stick Shift, Squeeky AFOs...

March 11, 2004

Hi all!

Life has been pretty busy lately, I barely have time to scan all the

posts. I have been wearing AFOs for about 6 months now and I wish I had

gotten some years ago! My preference in vehicles is manual transmission

(5 speed) and I have driven a Nissan Pathfinder since 1991. I'm 6 feet

tall, so I need lots 'o legroom and I've noticed that Nissan has much

more space around the pedals. I also have power steering and a " jump

up " / tilt steering column. The jump up part swings the wheel and most

of the steering column up and out of the way- a very cool feature that

helps especially when you need to sit and change shoes, etc. while

parked. When I first started wearing AFOs I have to adjust to the new

feel, but after a few days it seems like no problem at all. The major

problem I had was the jump in shoe size from 7 1/2 to 12. I would step

on two pedals by mistake at first, kind of like learning to drive a new

car! It was like being a teen driver again... it made me rethink my

driving habits. I have no trouble getting in and out though, I don't

even need to use the jump up or adjust anything. (My seat has always

been back as far as it can go) It's nothing new that people have a

preference though, whatever works for you is the best. However, I am

often impressed with the careful thought that Nissan puts into their

vehicles. Their slogan used to be " Engineered for the Human Race " and

I've found that to be true for me. YMMV (Your Mileage May Vary)

As for squeeky AFOs, that's been a problem since day one. I've tried

lots of powders and different socks, etc. But recently I broke down and

tried plain old J & J baby powder and it seems to work the best for me.

I use Gold Bond foot powder in my socks to absorb moisture, etc.

However, I found that the Gold Bond only dulls the squeek and it

eventually comes back during the day- very annoying!! I've got the

whole process of powder, socks, braces, powder, shoes- down to a

science, and it's a part of my morning just like getting dressed. I

keep both powders out on the coffee table ready to go. My only gripe is

the powder buildup in my shoes and AFOs, it's hard to keep it all

clean- but a small price to pay for the extra mobility.

-

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