Finding Running Shoes That Fit

Experts agree that wearing the right running shoes is essential for comfort, performance, and injury prevention. When trying on running shoes, ensure there is enough room for toe movement without feeling cramped. Your heel should feel snug and secure without slipping. For wide feet or foot conditions like bunions, be sure the toe box is wide enough to be comfortable. Get your feet measured professionally, as sizes can vary between brands. Consider the terrain you will be running on, as different surfaces require different shoe features. Understand your gait type and body weight to select appropriate support and cushioning. A chiropodist can analyze your foot and gait to recommend suitable shoe types, and to determine whether custom orthotics may be needed. Wearing the right running shoe is a great way to prevent injuries. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for an exam before making decisions about the type of running shoe that is best for your feet.

The right running shoes can sometimes be difficult to find. With so many options on the market, it’s important to know the unique needs of your feet prior to buying running shoes. If you require assistance, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

When looking for running shoes, take into consideration:

  • The type of running you will be doing

  • The terrain you plan to run on

  • Your gait or running pattern

  • Your arch type 

  • Other unique foot needs

A chiropodist can help by examining your feet and your gait to determine what types of shoes may be best for you. Some runners may require motion control shoes, which prevent your foot from rolling too far inward while you run. Others may need stability shoes, which offer more balance, cushioning, and support. When shopping for shoes, make sure that they are the right size, fit comfortably, and are made of breathable materials. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Flat Feet

A flat foot is a foot that has no visible arch in the middle of the sole of the foot while standing. There are two types of flat feet. A flexible flat foot has a visible arch when the foot is not bearing weight, but the arch disappears when the person stands or puts any weight on the foot. A rigid flat foot has no visible arch regardless of whether or not the foot is bearing any weight. Flat feet can also be present from birth or can develop over time, as the ligaments that hold up the arch of the foot weaken. When flat feet are acquired, they are referred to as fallen arches. 

In many cases, flat feet do not cause any pain or other symptoms. This is especially true for those who were born with flat feet. In the instances where flat feet are not asymptomatic, they may cause pain in the heel, arch, ankle, or along the outside of the foot, as well as shin pain, foot aches or fatigue, and lower back, hip, or knee pain. People who have flat feet are also more likely to have an abnormal gait or walking pattern that may affect their daily activities. 

Flat feet can be diagnosed through a physical examination. An imaging study, such as an X-ray, may be used to determine the severity of the condition. Treatments for flat feet include footwear and activity modifications, wearing orthotics, taking medications to relieve pain, and physical therapy. If you have flat feet that are causing you pain or discomfort, please consult with a chiropodist. 

Causes of Flat Feet

Flat feet, or pes planus, can develop over time due to various factors, with weakening of the posterior tibial tendon being a primary cause. This tendon, which supports the foot arch, can become strained from years of walking, running, and standing, leading to inflammation and eventual tearing. Factors such as obesity and pregnancy can worsen the strain. Other factors leading to flat feet include systemic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes, which affect foot health. Additionally, the natural aging process can contribute to the gradual flattening of the arches as tendons and ligaments lose elasticity and strength. If you notice changes in your foot structure or experience discomfort associated with flat feet, a chiropodist can provide expert assessment and a personalized treatment plan, which may include orthotics, to alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications. It is suggested that you contact this type of doctor who can help you to manage flat feet.

Flat feet are a common foot condition. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort due to flat feet, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Are Flat Feet? 

Flat feet are feet that do not have a well-defined arch in the middle of the sole of the foot. Flat feet may be flexible or rigid. Flexible flat feet have an arch when there is no pressure put on the foot, such as when one is sitting, but the arch disappears upon standing. Rigid flat feet lack an arch regardless of whether one is standing or not. 

Causes

Flat feet can be present from birth or acquired over time due to a weakening of the ligaments in the arch. Sometimes flat feet are caused by illnesses, injuries, or pregnancy. 

Symptoms

Flat feet often cause no noticeable symptoms. However, some people may experience pain and discomfort due to their flat feet. 

Symptoms associated with flat feet include:

  • Pain in the arch, heel, ankle, or along the outside of the foot

  • Overpronation of the foot

  • Shin splints

  • Aching or fatigue in the feet or legs

  • Pain in the knees, hips, or lower back

Treatment 

In cases where flat feet cause symptoms, there are various treatments available. Wearing orthotic inserts in your shoes to provide more arch support, performing stretches, and taking medications may improve your symptoms. If you are overweight, losing weight can help relieve pressure on the feet. In severe cases, surgery may be considered. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Reminder: When Was the Last Time...?

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Preventing Running Injuries

Running injuries are a serious cause for concern. Not only are they painful, but they can also become chronic or take a while to fully heal. This makes running even more difficult in the future. To maintain your mobility and keep on running, it’s important to take measures to avoid injury. 

Some of the most common running injuries, such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis, occur due to repetitive overuse or overtraining. When running, you should train slowly and gradually. Do not increase the mileage, intensity, or duration of your runs too quickly. Allow yourself time to rest and recover following each run. Avoid running on concrete or other hard surfaces if possible and choose dirt trails or grassy terrains instead. Hard surfaces don’t absorb shock well, putting more strain on your lower limbs. 

It’s also important to wear the right shoes. Choose shoes that fit your feet properly and provide adequate cushioning and support. If you have any biomechanical differences or a dysfunctional gait, consult with a chiropodist to help you find the right running shoes. 

In addition, having strong, flexible feet and ankles helps prevent injury. Do stretching and strengthening exercises daily for maximum benefits and warm-up prior to each run. To learn more about preventing running injuries, or if you have sustained a foot or ankle injury while running, please consult with a chiropodist near you. 

Preventing Running Injuries with Intelligent Training

Running injuries can affect the feet, and it is beneficial to implement effective running injury prevention strategies into your fitness regime. Strengthen muscles and joints with core stability, leg strength, and balance exercises. Avoid increasing mileage or intensity too quickly to let your body adapt and minimize overuse injuries. Mix up your routine with cycling, swimming, or yoga to prevent overuse injuries and fortify various muscle groups. Listen to your body and prioritize rest days and adequate sleep for tissue repair and muscle recovery. It is helpful to invest in proper running shoes and gear to support your biomechanics. If you are interested in learning about additional running injury prevention techniques that can protect your feet, it is suggested that you confer with a chiropodist. 

Although running is a wonderful exercise to keep you in shape, it can wreak havoc on your feet and ankles if you don’t take preventive measures. If you have sustained a foot and ankle injury from running, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Some common running injuries include:

  • Achilles tendonitis

  • Shin splints

  • Ankle sprains

  • Stress fractures

  • Plantar fasciitis

  • Bursitis 

What causes injuries? 

These injuries are usually caused by overtraining, wearing the wrong shoes, running on hard surfaces, having tight and inflexible muscles, or having biomechanical issues in the feet or ankles. 

What can I do to prevent injuries? 

  • Train slowly and gradually

  • Give yourself plenty of time to recover following a run

  • Wear shoes that fit properly and support your foot

  • Avoid running on hard surfaces, like concrete

  • Stretch and strengthen the muscles of your lower legs

  • Warm-up prior to a run

  • Have your gait analyzed and your feet examined by a chiropodist to determine if there are any biomechanical problems that need to be treated 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Spring

Spring is the season for running, baseball, tennis, and more. After a long winter of staying inside and perhaps staying sedentary, many people begin to increase their physical activity. Unfortunately, a sudden or rapid increase in physical activity can increase the risk of incurring a foot or ankle injury. Common springtime injuries include plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, shin splints, strains, sprains, and fractures. 

Fortunately, there are many steps that you can take to avoid injuries. When beginning any new exercise routine, it’s important to take things slow. Do not rapidly increase the intensity or duration of your training. Instead, increase one factor at a time, gradually. For example, if you’re a runner, increase the distance that you run gradually over the course of several weeks or months. Take breaks in between workouts to allow yourself time to heal properly. It’’s equally as important to be wearing the right shoes. Choose shoes that are comfortable, fit well, and offer support. 

If you do get injured or begin to notice subtle signs of injury, such as pain during physical activity, seek the care of a chiropodist. While you wait for your appointment, you can also take measures to reduce pain at home by resting the injured foot, applying ice, and compressing and elevating it. A chiropodist will be able to diagnose the injury and find the right treatment for you.

Essential Foot Care Tips for the Spring Season

As spring emerges, it is the perfect time to revitalize your foot care routine and prepare your feet for the warmer days ahead. Begin by indulging in a thorough foot soak to cleanse and rejuvenate tired feet, using gentle exfoliation to remove any lingering winter dryness. Transition to lighter, breathable footwear to promote air circulation and reduce the risk of moisture-related issues. Keep toenails trimmed straight across to prevent ingrown nails and invest in comfortable, supportive shoes for outdoor activities. Embrace the beauty of spring blossoms during walks, but be mindful of uneven terrain to avoid potential injuries. Hydration remains key, so moisturize your feet regularly to maintain softness and suppleness. If you are seeking help with foot care, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist.

Springtime is the season that many people use to get back into exercising and sports. It’s also a time when foot and ankle injuries may be more common. If you have a foot or ankle injury, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Common Foot and Ankle Problems in Spring 

  • Plantar fasciitis

  • Achilles tendonitis

  • Shin splints 

  • Strains

  • Sprains

  • Fractures

  • And more

Avoiding Injury

  • Increase physical activity slowly and gradually

  • Wear comfortable, well-fitted shoes and socks

  • Take time to rest following a workout 

  • Recognize and treat any injuries promptly 

Treatment at Home

  • Rest the injured foot

  • Apply ice to reduce swelling

  • Compress the injured foot with a bandage 

  • Elevate the foot to prevent swelling

Serious, chronic, or particularly painful injuries require medical care by a professional. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Elderly Foot Care

Like any other part of the body, the feet are vulnerable to wear and tear throughout our lives. As we age, our feet may require more care and attention. Elderly people are especially prone to developing a variety of foot problems, including dry skin, corns, calluses, blisters, ingrown toenails, deformities, arthritis, fungal infections, and plantar warts. Additionally, systemic conditions such as diabetes or poor circulation can have noticeable effects on foot health. 

The first step to preventing foot health problems at any age is to establish a good daily foot care routine. Washing the feet with soap and warm water daily, then drying them thoroughly is very important. Applying a moisturizer to the soles of the feet can help prevent dry skin. When trimming the toenails, use nail clippers to trim them straight across. This can prevent painful ingrown toenails. Doing daily foot exercises and stretches can help maintain the strength and flexibility of the feet. 

A critical step of the daily foot care routine, especially for those who have systemic conditions like diabetes, is the daily foot inspection. Check your feet each day for any cuts, scrapes, sores, or other abnormalities. By catching and treating any foot problems early, you can prevent infection and other serious complications. A hand mirror can be used to help you see any hard-to-reach areas. 

Another important aspect of caring for your feet is wearing the right shoes and socks. Footwear should be comfortable, supportive, flexible, and made of breathable materials. For some people, orthotic inserts can help make shoes more comfortable. 

If you have any foot problems, or questions about maintaining the health of your feet, please consult with a chiropodist. 

Essential Foot Care Guidelines for Senior Citizens

As we age, it becomes increasingly important to pay special attention to our overall health. Sometimes our feet are overlooked despite the important role they play in our daily lives. Senior citizens, in particular, may face unique challenges when it comes to foot care. Proper foot care is essential to maintain mobility and prevent potential issues. Regularly inspecting the feet for cuts, bruises, or changes in color is a simple yet effective practice. Choosing comfortable and supportive footwear can alleviate discomfort and reduce the risk of developing foot problems. Keeping the feet clean and dry, especially between the toes, helps prevent infections. Additionally, gentle exercises, like ankle rotations, can improve circulation and flexibility. By incorporating these foot care practices into their routine, seniors can promote overall well-being and enjoy an active lifestyle with happy and healthy feet. If you are elderly or are caring for a senior citizen, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist for additional tips on elderly foot care.

Foot problems can become increasingly common as we age, making everyday foot care especially important. To learn more about maintaining proper foot health, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Common Foot Problems

Certain foot problems may be more likely to affect older adults. 

Some examples of foot conditions that can be common in older adults include: 

  • Dry, cracked skin

  • Calluses and corns

  • Blisters

  • Ingrown toenails

  • Deformities such as bunions or hammertoes

  • Fungal infections

  • Plantar warts

Systemic conditions, such as diabetes or arthritis, are also more likely to affect older people and manifest symptoms in the feet and ankles. 

Daily Foot Care Tips

Having a daily foot care routine can help detect problems early on and prevent future issues. 

Things that you can do at home to care for your feet include: 

  • Washing the feet daily with warm water, drying them thoroughly, and then applying a moisturizer 

  • Trimming the toenails straight across and not too short to prevent ingrown toenails

  • Performing daily foot exercises to improve foot strength and mobility

  • Wearing shoes when walking to avoid injury

  • Inspecting the feet daily for any cuts, scrapes, sores, or other abnormalities and seeking prompt treatment if any problems are discovered 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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