Back To School Shoes

Summer is quickly ending and now many students and kids will be returning back to school. At this time, many parents will be buying their children new sneakers/shoes to also start the new year off. There are many different things to look into when buying sneakers and shoes. The American Podiatric Medical Association has listed a "1,2,3 test" to ensure a good quality shoe when purchasing new shoes.
The first thing to do it press on both back parts of the heel. this area should be firm and not compress.
(Images on the left are better quality sneakers than images on the right)
Click on picture for bigger picture.


The next step to check for is toe flexibility. The shoe/sneaker should compress at the ball of the foot and not the entire shoe. The shoe should bend with your child’s toes, but should not be too stiff or bend too much in the toe box area.




The 3rd test should be to grab the shoe/sneaker and twist it from side to side. A good quality shoe/sneaker will not easily twist in the middle.



Other important considerations is to go shoe shopping with your children. This will help promote good quality shoes early and often. Always look for the Podiatry Seal of Acceptance on the shoes. We have blogged about this earlier. Continually examine the wear pattern of the heels. Many kids will tend to wear out the heels even though their shoe size has not changed. Lastly, socks is always important when trying on shoes. Make sure to wear the correct socks when trying on shoes to ensure a proper fit.

http://www.podiatrycarespecialists.com/

New Running Sneaker Style

I recently saw an interesting article from Wired magazine. Research is being done that is suggesting barefoot is the way to run. I do not agree with this at all, but we will see what kind of literature will be published in the future. Certain companies are developing models like Nike Free, the Newton All-Weather Trainer and the glove-like Vibram FiveFingers.

Could these things be the new Crocs? Only time will tell. I dont see it as a good idea due to the lack of support and cushion. By running barefoot, you increase your chances of sprain, strains, fractures, and developing cuts and bruises. The new sneakers do not seem at all supportive for the heel and arch. I will keep you posted on the new running style to see if any literature is out there. Until then, its best NOT to run barefoot, and to be in good supportive sneakers and shoes at all times.
The original article can be found at : http://www.wired.com/wiredscience/2009/07/barefoot/

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Exercising and Foot Gear

Over the past few weeks and months with the warmer weather out, I have been trying to get more and more exercising in. Usually that will be with bike riding, the elliptical machine, and running. One of the good habits that I have developed as a Podiatrist is constantly looking at ones feet or shoe gear. Its more apparent in the Summer months when people wear sandals and flip-flops.

As I talk about different shoes in this blog I would like to mention that I have no affiliations with these company's and I do not get paid for recommending their shoe gear. Its all from personal experience.

I have been amazed that when I went to the gym a few weeks ago what people are working out in. Or even cycling on trails. I have noticed a lot of sandals. They may feel fine while working out in them but it will catch up with them later. They will eventually develop foot problems. Sandals and flip flops offer no support at all. When exercising, your heel and the arches of the foot need to be constantly supported. There also needs to be some shock absorption as well. If not the knees then take a lot of that shock absorption. People will develop plantar fasciitis, arch pain, callouses, and knee pain as well.

Now i know there are a ton of different shoes and sneaker company's out there but not all have the APMA seal of acceptance. I will also post a link for them as well. As for shoes and sneakers I will recommend they are as follows:
Sneakers: New Balance, Asics, Saucony, Brooks, Mizuno, Aetrex
Shoes: Aetrex, Rockport, Ecco, Clark's, and Merrell's

And for a list of the APMA seal of acceptance for shoes and sneakers please see the following link:
http://www.apma.org/MainMenu/RecommendedProducts/SealofAcceptance/ProductsbyCategory.aspx#FOOTWEAR



http://www.podiatrycarespecialists.com/