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Items filtered by date: June 2023
Tuesday, 27 June 2023 00:00
Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type
Running may seem like a simple to do. However, running is actually a complex movement that puts stress on the ligaments, bones, and joints of the body. Selecting the correct running shoe is important for increasing performance and avoiding risk of injury. Running shoes should be selected based on your foot type. Considerations such as trail versus road shoes are important. Your foot type dictates the degree of cushioning, stability and motion control you require. The most accurate way to learn your foot type is to visit a local shop that specializes in running shoes. Professionals can measure your arch type, stride and gait and help you with your shoe needs.
The design of running shoes is created around the idea of pronation. Pronation is the natural rolling movement of your ankle from the outside to inside when your foot strikes the ground. If you run properly you strike the ground on the outside of your heel and roll in the direction of your big toe before pushing off once more. Pronation is beneficial because it assists the lower half of your body in absorbing shock and storing energy. Those considered neutral runners pronate correctly and do not need running shoes that help correct their form. Neutral runners can choose from a wide variety of shoes, including barefoot or minimal types. However, those who have arch problems or who adopt an incorrect form while running may experience too much or too little pronation. They may require running shoes that offer additional support.
Those who overpronate experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling. Even while standing, those who severely overpronate display ankles that are angled inward. It is not uncommon for them to have flat feet or curved legs. The tendency to overpronate may cause many injuries. Areas that tend to become injured are the knees, ankles, and Achilles tendon. If you find that you have a tendency to overpronate, you should look at shoes that provide extra stability and motion-control. Motion-control shoes are straight and firm. Shoes of this type do not curve at the tip. The restricted flexibility along the middle of the shoe prohibits the foot from rolling too far inward as your foot strikes the ground.
A less common problem is underpronation. Underpronation, also called supination, is when the feet are unable to roll inward during landing. Those who underpronate have feet that lack flexibility and high arches. This prevents any kind of shock absorption, even though it does place less rotational stress on ankles and knees. This added force can cause fractures, ligament tears, and muscle strains because the legs are trying to compensate for the impact. Those who underpronate need shoes with more cushioning and flexibility. If you have a tendency to underpronate, selecting stability or motion-control shoes may cause you more problems by continuing to prevent pronation.
Tuesday, 27 June 2023 00:00
Three Types of Running Shoes
There are differences between running shoes and sneakers. The similarities end with their appearance, and specific technology used in running shoes that can aid in running. Additionally, they are constructed to prevent injury by having ample cushioning which can help to absorb shock. It is beneficial to make sure the running shoes fit perfectly, and it is helpful to try shoes on at the end of the day when the feet are at their largest. A general rule to follow can consist of ensuring there is a thumb’s width between the top of the shoe and the end of the foot. This is an adequate method to rule out any pinching or sliding that may happen while wearing shoes that do not fit correctly. The most durable type of running shoe can be classified as an everyday running shoe and can handle most types of running. People who enjoy running fast may benefit from wearing lightweight running shoes, which have less cushioning than other shoes. When running on rocky trails or dirt, choosing a trail running shoe is the best option. If you would like more information about what type of running shoes to purchase, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can guide you in making the right choice.
You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Brondon Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type
Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.
Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe
- Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
- There should be little to no slipping at the heel
- Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
- Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
- Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our our office located in Centerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Tuesday, 20 June 2023 00:00
Bunions
A bunion is an enlargement of the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot, often formed from a bony growth or a patch of swollen tissues. It is caused by the inward shifting of the bones in the big toe, toward the other toes of the foot. This shift can cause a serious amount of pain and discomfort. The area around the big toe can become inflamed, red, and painful.
Bunions are most commonly formed in people who are already genetically predisposed to them or other kinds of bone displacements. Existing bunions can be worsened by wearing improperly fitting shoes. Trying to cram your feet into high heels or running or walking in a way that causes too much stress on the feet can exacerbate bunion development. High heels not only push the big toe inward, but shift one's body weight and center of gravity towards the edge of the feet and toes, expediting bone displacement.
A podiatrist knowledgeable in foot structure and biomechanics will be able to quickly diagnose bunions. Bunions must be distinguished from gout or arthritic conditions, so blood tests may be necessary. The podiatrist may order a radiological exam to provide an image of the bone structure. If the x-ray demonstrates an enlargement of the joint near the base of the toe and a shifting toward the smaller toes, this is indicative of a bunion.
Wearing wider shoes can reduce pressure on the bunion and minimize pain, and high heeled shoes should be eliminated for a period of time. This may be enough to eliminate the pain associated with bunions; however, if pain persists, anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed. Severe pain may require an injection of steroids near the bunion. Orthotics for shoes may be prescribed which, by altering the pressure on the foot, can be helpful in reducing pain. These do not correct the problem; but by eliminating the pain, they can provide relief.
For cases that do not respond to these methods of treatment, surgery can be done to reposition the toe. A surgeon may do this by taking out a section of bone or by rearranging the ligaments and tendons in the toe to help keep it properly aligned. It may be necessary even after surgery to wear more comfortable shoes that avoid placing pressure on the toe, as the big toe may move back to its former orientation toward the smaller toes.
Tuesday, 20 June 2023 00:00
Overpronation and Hypermobility May Cause Bunions
The foot condition known as a bunion is a progressive bone disorder. It is a lump on the side of the big toe that can happen from wearing shoes that do not have enough room in the toe area. Bunions may also occur due to genetic reasons. A bunion is considered a deformity and severe bunions can cause the other toes to shift toward each other. Some patients can develop bunions from overpronation, and this causes the foot to roll inward and can also be related to having flat feet. If the body's weight is unevenly distributed, an abnormal foot structure may develop which could lead to a bunion developing. Hypermobility is a condition that causes the bones to move more than they normally would and this may also result in a bunion. If you have a bunion, it is suggested that you confer with a podiatrist who can determine the proper plan of treatment for you.
If you are suffering from bunions, contact one of our podiatrists of Brondon Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
What Is a Bunion?
A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.
Why Do Bunions Form?
Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary
Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions
How Are Bunions Diagnosed?
Doctors often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your doctor.
How Are Bunions Treated?
- Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
- Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
- Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
- Orthotics or foot inserts
- Surgery
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Centerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Tuesday, 13 June 2023 00:00
Gout
Gout is a form of arthritis that is caused by a buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints. This considered to be one of the most frequently recorded medical illnesses throughout history. Gout occurrences in the US have risen within the past twenty years and the condition now affects 8.3 million people which is 4% of all Americans. Researchers have found that gout affects men more than women and African-American men more than white men.
Symptoms of gout are warmth, swelling, discoloration, and tenderness in the affected joint area. The small joint on the big toe is the most common place for a gout attack to occur.
People who are obese, gain weight excessively, drink alcohol heavily, have high blood pressure, or have abnormal kidney function are more likely to develop gout. Furthermore, certain drugs and diseases are likely to increase levels of uric acid in the joints which eventually leads to gout. You are also more likely to develop gout if you eat a lot of meat and fish.
Many who experience gout attacks will experience repeated attacks over the years. Some people who have gout symptoms, may never have them again, but others may experience them several times a year. If you have gout symptoms throughout the year, you may have recurrent gout. Those who have gout should also be careful about their urate crystals collecting in their urinary tract, because this may lead to kidney stones.
Diagnosis for gout is done by checking the level of uric acid in the joints and blood. Your podiatrist may also prescribe medicine to reduce uric acid buildup in the blood, which will help prevent any gout attacks.
To treat gout, your podiatrist may also prescribe you Anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs) which will relieve the pain and swelling of a gout episode and it can also shorten a gout attack. Maintaining a healthy diet is also a proven method to prevent gout attacks.
Tuesday, 13 June 2023 00:00
Symptoms That May Indicate Gout
Gout is an inflammatory condition that causes extreme pain in the joints and is particularly common in the big toe. Patients with gout suffer from hyperuricemia, an overabundance of uric acid in the bloodstream. Uric acid then crystallizes, forming sharp, short needles that settle in the joint and cause extreme pain. Anyone can suffer from gout, but it is more common among men over the age of 30. Risk factors for gout are genetics, alcohol use, and a diet rich in foods that contain a high level of purines. These include red meat, seafood, and beverages made with alcohol or large amounts of sugar. The top indicator of gout in the big toe is severe pain. This may come on suddenly and typically occurs at night. The intense pain can linger for days. Swelling, tenderness, and redness are also hallmarks of gout. The skin on the toe may begin to peel and then become itchy and flaky. It also may begin to feel hot to the touch. In some cases, a low-grade fever develops, along with flu-like symptoms. If you believe you may have gout in the big toe, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can offer treatment options.
Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Brondon Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.
What Is Gout?
Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.
Symptoms
- Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
- Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
- Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
- Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility
Risk Factors
- Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
- Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
- Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
- Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
- Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
- Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout
Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Centerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Tuesday, 06 June 2023 00:00
Foot Pain
Our feet are arguably the most important parts of our bodies because they are responsible for getting us from place to place. However, we often don’t think about our feet until they begin to hurt. If you have pain in your feet, you need to first determine where on the foot you are experiencing it to get to the root of the problem. The most common areas to feel pain on the foot are the heel and the ankle.
Heel pain is most commonly attributed to a condition called plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia, which is the band of tough tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes becomes inflamed. Plantar fasciitis pain is usually worse in the morning, and it tends to go away throughout the day. If you have plantar fasciitis, you should rest your foot and do heel and foot muscles stretches. Wearing shoes with proper arch support and a cushioned sole has also been proven to be beneficial.
Some common symptoms of foot pain are redness, swelling, and stiffness. Foot pain can be dull or sharp depending on its underlying cause. Toe pain can also occur, and it is usually caused by gout, bunions, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, sprains, fractures, and corns.
If you have severe pain in your feet, you should immediately seek assistance from your podiatrist for treatment. Depending on the cause of your pain, your podiatrist may give you a variety of treatment options.
Tuesday, 06 June 2023 00:00
Ganglion Cysts on the Feet
A ganglion cyst on the foot develops near joints or tendons, of which there are many in the foot. It is like a soft pebble filled with a gel-like fluid and is noncancerous. In many cases, a ganglion cyst will disappear or gradually diminish in size, despite the fact it can be quite painful and tender to the touch. Symptoms of a ganglion cyst are a noticeable lump, a tingling or burning pain if it touches a nerve, and irritation that can happen while wearing shoes. A ganglion cyst forms when synovial fluid leaks from a joint or tendon and collects in a sac under the skin. If it is particularly painful and interferes with the completion of your daily activities, a podiatrist can drain the cyst of its fluid and inject it with medication. It is very dangerous to try to pop a ganglion cyst yourself, as this may cause further damage and increase the risk of infection. In severe cases, surgery can be an option. For help with a ganglion cyst on the foot, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine the best options to treat a ganglion cyst.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Brondon Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Bunions
- Hammertoes
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Bone Spurs
- Corns
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Ingrown Toenails
- Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
- Flat Feet
- Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
- And more
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Centerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Sunday, 04 June 2023 00:00
Are You Suffering From Nerve Damage?
Neuropathy is a condition that can lead to numbness or loss of sensation in the feet, but it can also cause pain. This condition is more likely to develop for those who are diabetic, obese, or with high blood pressure.
