Hello, Judy (@dance4life)

It sounds like we're experiencing much the same thing. If I sit reading, writing, or watching TV, even if I've only been sitting for 20-25 minutes, I must be very careful when I go to stand up. My legs will feel rubbery. Often, I'll feel a pinch on one or both of my knees; sometimes, my ankle joints will be achy (when they felt fine before I sat down). I deliberately remain standing without attempting a first step until I'm reasonably sure I can go forward. But even as I go forward, I'll make certain I've a wall or tall chair close by so that I'm able to keep my fingertips touching something solid. It's odd: just "touching" helps; I needn't have a firm grip. After I've gone a short ways, usually I can stop "touching," but I still must go very, very carefully. I must be especially careful not to look suddenly left or right; that would throw me off balance (as it has a few times in recent months). You mention shoes. That's a problem for me. Because I've severely flat feet and must wear orthotics, I have a devil of a time finding good fitting, comfortable shoes. I've tried so many, from the expensive ones to the bargain-price ones: none is ever "just right." My physical therapist tells me––because of my long-time wearing of orthotics––I should always wear some sort of footwear, even indoors (I used to love to go about barefoot). She's suggested slippers, but I've never found any slippers that will hold my heels in place. Not only do I find that annoying, but it's also seems another set-up for tripping. In an earlier post, I believe I also mentioned that when I do the various leg-strengthening exercises my therapist would like me to do every day, I end up with one or more throbbing knees. Thanks for writing. I look forward to hearing again from you when you've time.

Cheers!
Ray (@ray666)