Use of orthosis on tatami floors
Use of orthosis on tatami floors
Hi everyone. I have a question about the use of orthosis on tatami floors. My dad had a stroke which left him with semi-paralysis on his right side. With time and physiotherapy he has been able to walk short distances (he uses a luggie scooter to move around greater distances). The issue is that he uses an orthosis on his right foot, and it has to be used with a shoe (he uses a croc). We are history geeks and I wanted to take him to stay in a ryokan around Hakone, but the ones I’ve found have tatami floors in the reception area as well as the rooms. The same issue happens with some castles and other historical constructions. I wanted to know if there are any tips about how to handle that. If worst comes to worst, we simply wont go to these places, but I wanted to see if there is any way to deal with this so we can actually enjoy some of these places. I though about buying a new crocs pair that he can use only inside buildings, but then I thought maybe that wont be allowed either because it could damage the tatamis. Any suggestions?
- 6 Replies
If there is a legitimate medical reason one needs to keep their shoes on, they can use a shoe cover. Just in case they don’t have them readily available, I would just purchase a pack of disposable ones (think shower cap) and keep them handy.
Heather is correct that a medical need would be accomodated. The removal of shoes is both a necessity and a cultural one. Whilst you haven’t detailed shoe size might I suggest that you investigate if you can get some socks which have rubber grippers (so called “slipper socks”). These will provide better grip than disposable covers. You can also get reusable shoe covers from places that sell industrial workwear.
Bear in mind that the castles you will visit will have highly polished wood floors from the thousands of feet that have trod them. Also staircases are surprisingly steep and the height of steps can be large (12 to 14 inches).
Hi
Very good question.
Normally shows is no good for Tatami.
But it is better to confirm hotel.
If someone wear thick socks, it should be no problem.
Than you all for the replies! My concern was exactly that: I do not wish for us to be rude or to damage anything while trying to accomodate my dad. The shoe cover is something I have considered too, but the one on the link sent is actually great! I’ve never seen it before! I appreciate all the answers given! This will surely help with our trip. 😍
Heather is correct, l found having a medical reason l could not take my shoes off on Taman flooring snd other cultural sites was quickly resolved by shoes socks, like they use in hospital operating theatres . 10 years ago when we were last in Japan l had a calipher and could not walk with it. I had got a Japanese friend to write out the situation for me in Japanese but l only used the letter once, the remainder of times the curators could not do enough to assist. Later on when travelling in Asian countries l took some with me so l had my own supply of “ socks”
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