Items filtered by date: September 2024

Choosing the right footwear is essential for comfort and injury prevention, and understanding the differences between walking and running shoes is important. One key difference lies in heel design, as running shoes typically have a more pronounced heel drop to accommodate the forward motion and impact associated with running. In contrast, walking shoes often feature a lower heel to promote a more natural foot movement. Flexibility is another significant distinction, and walking shoes tend to be more flexible, allowing for a smooth rolling motion, while running shoes are stiffer to provide support during the higher impact of running. Cushioning also varies. Running shoes generally offer more cushioning to absorb shock, whereas walking shoes prioritize stability and comfort for prolonged use. If you have foot pain from wearing ill-fitting shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and provide additional guidance on shoe selection.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Thomas Vail, DPM from Step Alive Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

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

Flat feet, or fallen arches, are common in children and can be attributed to various factors. Genetic predisposition often plays a significant role, as flat feet can run in families. In many cases, children may develop arches as they grow, but some may continue to have flat feet into adulthood. Other contributing factors include ligament laxity and muscle weakness, which can affect the foot's structure. Symptoms of flat feet often include discomfort or pain in the feet, especially after prolonged activity. Children may also experience fatigue, difficulty standing for long periods, or balance issues. Flat feet can lead to complications such as pain in the knees, hips, or lower back. If your child is experiencing pain or discomfort from having flat feet, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can provide effective relief solutions.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Thomas Vail, DPM from Step Alive Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

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

Walking sticks can be an excellent tool for enhancing stability. They can reduce  the risk of falls, particularly for people who have balance problems or for those who walk on uneven surfaces. The additional points of contact with the ground provided by walking sticks can help distribute body weight. This reduces strain on the feet and alleviates pressure that might otherwise lead to pain or even injury. Walking sticks also promote better posture, which reduces foot fatigue during prolonged walks or hikes. When used correctly, walking sticks can assist in maintaining balance and controlling foot movements, which helps minimize slips and trips. It is important to adjust the walking sticks to your height to ensure they provide adequate support for your walking style. A podiatrist can evaluate your specific needs and guide you on whether walking sticks are appropriate for your foot health. If you need an assistive device for walking, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can determine if walking sticks are right for you.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Thomas Vail, DPM from Step Alive Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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

Bunions and bunionettes are common foot conditions that can cause significant discomfort. A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe, causing the toe to angle inward, resulting in pain and swelling. Conversely, a bunionette, also known as a tailor's bunion, develops on the outside of the foot near the little toe. Both conditions can lead to inflammation and difficulty in wearing certain types of shoes. Symptoms include swelling, redness, and tenderness surrounding the affected areas. To prevent these issues, it is important to wear properly fitting shoes with adequate room in the toe box. Regularly performing foot exercises and maintaining a healthy weight can also help reduce the risk. If you have either one of these foot conditions, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions.

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Thomas Vail, DPM of Step Alive Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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