Navigating the World of Orthopaedic Footwear: Fashion Meets Functionality

February 1, 2024

It’s no secret that orthopaedic shoes prioritize functionality. However, a common misconception is that orthopaedic footwear couldn’t possibly be stylish due to their health-centric nature. The truth is, the evolving market now offers fashionable orthopaedic shoes that combine style with supportive features, catering to those seeking treatment for foot conditions without sacrificing aesthetics.

What Does Orthopaedic Footwear Do?

Studies show that long-term use of orthopaedic footwear can help manage foot pain, particularly by relieving pressure points in the feet, providing extra cushioning and arch support, and properly aligning the feet’s positioning during movement.

Research also shows that orthopaedic shoes trends tend to help improve gait and walking patterns by letting patients take longer strides and increasing gait speed. Orthopaedic shoes can treat a wide range of foot conditions, including but not limited to:

Common Misconceptions About Stylish Orthopaedic Footwear

In 2024, it’s easy to disprove the most common myths about orthopaedic shoes, most of which are centred on appearance and fashion flair. These include:

“Orthopaedic shoes are only for seniors.” The truth is, they can also treat foot conditions common in younger people, like high arches, Achilles tendonitis, and more. There is no age bias when it comes to foot pain!

“Orthopaedic shoes are clunky and unflattering.” The truth is, there are many sleek, flattering options that qualify as comfortable fashion footwear. And most people cannot even tell that you are wearing medically beneficial shoes unless you let them know!

“Orthopaedic shoe types are limited.” The truth is, there are a variety of orthopaedic shoes available, including walking shoes, work shoes, athletic shoes, ballet-style flats, sandals, and more.

Where to Find Fashionable Orthopaedic Footwear

Investing in orthopaedic footwear involves some planning, but it is worthwhile.

First, schedule a foot assessment with your chiropodist. If they determine your foot health will benefit from wearing orthopaedic shoes, they can write you a prescription and make recommendations that align with your foot type, gait pattern and foot condition.

Then you can select the pair of orthopaedic shoes you will get the most use out of. For practicality purposes, choose a style that suits your life (for example, you may need work shoes more than sandals). At Feet First Clinic, we have a wide variety of orthopaedic shoes available for purchase, but you can also select the pair of your dreams from our extensive footwear catalogue.

Find Orthopaedic Shoes at Feet First Clinic!

The staff at our Toronto foot clinic can help you select the best pair of orthopaedic shoes for you. They can also determine your accurate shoe size and order shoes if we don’t have them in stock! Call us at (416) 769-3338 or book an appointment online!

Banner image courtesy of iStock, body images courtesy of whatwolf from FreePik, FreePik, wayhomestudio from FreePik and iStock!

A child with flat feet standing on wooden platform next to the water

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August 29, 2022

Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a real nuisance, and it's also incredibly common. Luckily, plenty of shoe manufacturers design their footwear with this foot condition in mind. Knowing this, Feet First Clinic created a list of the best shoes for plantar fasciitis! Before we dive into our list of supportive shoes, let's get the basics out the way and explain what type of footwear people with plantar fasciitis need. What is Plantar Fasciitis? Plantar fasciitis is the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of fibrous tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. The most common symptom is heel pain. Specifically, it may present as a "stabbing" feeling that can worsen in the morning and ease up as the day continues. Arch pain can also be a symptom of plantar fasciitis. Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis People with plantar fasciitis generally need a stability shoe. These running and walking shoes help support the arch of the foot and control overpronation (when the feet roll excessively inward). Stability shoes are also more rigid than neutral ones since they control excessive motion. Furthermore, arch support is the most important thing to look for when you have plantar fasciitis. The foot's arch is located in the centre of the plantar fascia tendon, so it's the most vulnerable to inflammation, which exacerbates foot pain and heel pain. Overpronation can also aggravate plantar fasciitis since weight constantly shifts from the heels to the toes. 4 Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis ASICS Gel-Kayano Saucony Omni ASICS Gel-Nimbus APEX X-Last Walking Shoe ASICS Gel-Kayano Which Asics Are Best? Asics Offers Stability, Cushioning, Medical Benefits for Plantar Fasciitis Known for being one of the best stability shoes from ASICS, the Gel-Kayano has the most stability and cushioning from their series of running shoes. The Gel-Kayano is the right choice for people who experience moderate or severe overpronation and need maximum cushioning and arch support. It accomplishes this with its TRUSSTIC™ and DYNAMIC DUOMAX® technologies: The TRUSSTIC technology involves a resin structure (a medial post) in the midsole of the shoe that prevents the excessive twisting motion associated with overpronation. The DYNAMIC DUOMAX technology involves a firm sponge in the midsole that helps control and offset the inward rolling of the heel and foot. This ultra-soft cushioning is thanks to ASICS classic GEL® technology, which also helps with shock absorption. Furthermore, the external heel counter cradles the foot and adds extra support to the heel, helping manage the heel pain associated with plantar fasciitis. Saucony Omni The Omni from Saucony also provides great plantar fasciitis support. Despite being a rigid stability shoe, it also offers a good amount of bounce, letting runners propel forward. This is thanks to the springy PWRRUN cushioning technology. The redesigned internal heel counter and extended medial post support are responsible for plantar fasciitis management. The heel counter guides your steps and helps promote a normal gait while managing overpronation. Furthermore, the medial post support adjusts to the body's natural alignment with added control. ASICS Gel-Nimbus Some neutral shoes offer enough features to accommodate plantar fasciitis. Neutral running and walking shoes are for people with a normal walking gait. However, this neutral shoe from ASICS has some characteristics that often come with stability shoes, such as a specially engineered external heel counter and ASICS' TRUSSTIC technology. The Gel-Nimbus features cushioning in the back and front with additional support towards the inside of the arch. The FLYTEFOAM™ midsole cushioning also helps absorb shock with every step. The newest version of the Nimbus is also ten times more lightweight than its predecessors without losing its stability and structure. APEX X-Last Walking Shoe The X-Last Walking Shoe from APEX is a motion control shoe, also known as an enhanced version of a stability shoe. They are meant to support weight, accommodate flat feet and manage extreme overpronation. They are more rigid than stability shoes, and provide excellent support for the feet and ankles. While motion control shoes are sometimes on the heavy side, the APEX X-Last Walking Shoe is light as a feather (in fact, it's lighter than most running shoes!) This shoe's heel cup, arch support, and pronation control features make it an excellent choice for people with plantar fasciitis. Specifically, the APEX X-Last Walking shoe includes a moulded external heel counter that extends from the heel to the arch. Check Out More Resources on Plantar Fasciitis Relieving Pain Caused by Plantar Fasciitis 3 Exercises To Help Prevent Plantar Fasciitis 5 Most Common Foot Injuries

April 22, 2024

Age-Defying Foot Care: Keeping Your Feet Youthful at Any Age

When it comes to anti-aging routines, our feet are often overlooked. Yet, they are one of the hardest-working parts of our body and deserve just as much attention as our skincare regimen. As we age, our feet undergo natural changes that can lead to discomfort and mobility issues if left unchecked. In this blog post, we'll explore age-defying foot care tips to help keep your feet feeling youthful and vibrant at any age. 1. Maintain proper hygiene Good foot hygiene is the foundation of age-defying foot care. As we age, our skin becomes thinner and more susceptible to infections, making it essential to keep our feet clean and dry to prevent fungal infections and bacterial growth. Wash your feet daily with soap and water, paying close attention to the spaces between toes, and thoroughly dry them afterward to prevent moisture buildup. 2. Moisturize regularly Dry, cracked skin is a common issue that affects aging feet. To keep your feet soft and supple: Moisturize them regularly with a rich foot cream or lotion. Focus on areas prone to dryness, such as the heels and soles, and consider using products containing ingredients like urea or shea butter, known for their hydrating properties. For an extra treat, indulge in a weekly foot soak followed by a moisturizing foot mask to pamper your feet and lock in moisture. 3. Supportive footwear As we age, the fat pads in our feet naturally thin out, leading to decreased cushioning and shock absorption—this is known as fat pad atrophy. Investing in supportive footwear with ample cushioning and arch support is crucial for maintaining foot health and preventing discomfort. Look for shoes with a roomy toe box to accommodate any changes in foot shape, and opt for styles with adjustable straps or laces for a customized fit. Additionally, consider wearing orthotic inserts or custom-made orthotics to provide extra support and cushioning. 4. Consistent exercise Like the rest of our body, our feet benefit from regular exercise to improve strength, flexibility, and circulation. To keep your feet limber and mobile, incorporate simple foot exercises into your daily routine, such as toe curls, ankle circles, and calf stretches. Additionally, consider practicing yoga or tai chi, which can help improve balance and stability, reducing the risk of falls and injuries as we age. 5. Routine and regular check-ups Regular foot exams are essential for detecting foot problems or underlying health issues early. Schedule regular check-ups with a chiropodist or foot specialist to monitor your feet's health and address any concerns promptly. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations tailored to your needs, helping you maintain healthy, youthful feet for years.

April 18, 2024

Innovative Treatments for Common Foot Problems in 2024

Innovation has always been important in the healthcare world, with chiropody and innovative foot treatments being no exception! These days, with advanced foot care, you can enjoy pain management and comfort without resorting to a time-consuming ordeal like surgery. Let’s explore the services you can participate in thanks to innovation and great ideas! Innovative Treatments for Common Foot Problems in 2024 Confusing and lengthy procedures can cause you to neglect the foot condition you may be struggling with, so modern treatments should save you time and put you at ease! Here are some of the best innovative treatments available today: Shockwave therapy Custom orthotics Video gait analysis Onyfix Splinting and taping Shockwave Therapy Healthcare professionals have been using shockwave therapy to address musculoskeletal conditions since the 1980s. While the term “shockwave” can be off-putting, it’s a totally non-invasive procedure and most patients report very mild discomfort and no pain. Shockwave therapy is quickly shaping up to be one of the best Achille’s tendonitis, Morton’s neuroma, and plantar fasciitis solutions. It works by targeting injured tissues, boosting blood circulation and stimulating a natural healing response in our bodies. To learn more about shockwave therapy, click here. Custom Orthotics Orthotics date back to ancient civilization when humans started to realize their feet needed more support! As the centuries passed, they have become one of the most innovative treatments because now chiropodists and manufacturers can mold them to fit your specific needs. Custom orthotics treat a wide range of conditions and help correct your gait. To learn more, click here. Video Gait Analysis A video gait analysis uses technology and visuals to determine what type of unique gait (walking pattern) you have. Think of it as a much more advanced version of walking on a treadmill! It gives your chiropodist the insight they need to help you correct it and avoid pain as much as possible. To learn more, click here. OnyFix Imagine if you could alter your nail growth pattern without using invasive tools? Primarily used as an ingrown toenail treatment, OnyFix uses composite material to ensure your nails grow evenly and correctly! It’s one of the newest chiropody treatments and only became popular in North America within the past decade or so. To learn more, click here. Splinting, Taping and Correction Tapes, splints and other devices can help people manage foot deformities without surgeries. For example, patients often experience bunion relief with bunion correctors, which are both affordable and comfortable and put your toes in an optimal position. Splinting and taping can also do the same for various conditions! To learn more, click here.

April 15, 2024

Preventing Sports Injuries: Essential Foot Care for Athletes

For athletes, maintaining peak performance and preventing injuries is paramount. While much focus is often placed on strength training, conditioning, and proper technique, one crucial aspect that is sometimes overlooked is foot care. Our feet bear the brunt of athletic activities, absorbing shock, providing stability, and propelling us forward. So taking care of our feet is very important for preventing sports injury. The term "sports injury" refers to injuries most common during sports or exercise but are not limited to athletes. For example, factory employees may get tennis elbow, or those working retail may get plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis. Generally, however, "sports injuries" occur in active individuals. In this blog post, we'll explore essential foot care tips for athletes to help prevent sports injuries and keep them at the top of their game. 1. Choose the right footwear The foundation of foot care for athletes begins with selecting the appropriate footwear. Different sports require specific types of shoes to provide adequate support, cushioning, and stability. For example, runners should opt for running shoes with ample cushioning and support, while basketball players may benefit from high-top sneakers for ankle support. Replacing worn-out shoes regularly is essential to maintain optimal support and cushioning. 2. Ensure proper footwear fit Improperly-fitted shoes may lead to foot problems, including blisters, bunions, and ingrown toenails. Athletes should pay close attention to the fit of their shoes, ensuring enough room in the toe box to prevent cramping and rubbing. Additionally, shoes should provide a snug but comfortable fit around the heel and midfoot. A proper fit around the low ankle prevents slipping and instability during activity. 3. Practice good foot hygiene Proper foot hygiene is essential for preventing fungal infections such as athlete's foot and toenail fungus. Athletes should wash their feet daily with soap and water, paying particular attention to the spaces between toes. After washing, thoroughly dry the feet, especially between the toes, to prevent moisture buildup, which can create an environment conducive to fungal growth. 4. Stretch and strengthen Incorporating stretching and strengthening exercises into your routine can help improve flexibility and stability, reducing the risk of injury. Focus on stretching the calves, Achilles tendon, and plantar fascia to maintain optimal range of motion and prevent tightness that can lead to injuries such as Achilles tendonitis and plantar fasciitis. Additionally, incorporate exercises that target the muscles of the feet and ankles, such as toe curls and ankle circles, to improve strength and stability. 5. Listen to your body The most crucial aspect of foot care for athletes is listening to your body and promptly addressing any signs of discomfort or pain. Ignoring pain or pushing through injuries can lead to further damage and prolonged recovery time. (Muscle injuries require an average of 2 to 3 weeks of recovery time.) If you experience persistent pain, swelling, or discomfort in your feet or ankles, seek professional medical attention to prevent further injury and expedite healing.

April 11, 2024

The Role of Nutrition in Foot Health

You are what you eat! This statement could not be more true, as the foods we consume help our bodies function at their best. The connection between nutrition and foot health isn’t widely known or obvious, but a healthy diet can work wonders for bone and joint health in the lower extremities. Eating the right foods for strong feet may also help you avoid painful foot conditions when combined with other foot care practices. Keep reading to discover nutrition and foot health secrets! How Good Nutrition Benefits Foot Health Healthy eating can lead to stronger feet by helping prevent excess inflammation. Inflammation can be protective and healing, but on the flip side, too much can lead to the following: Tissue damage Joint degradation (arthritis) Injuries and mobility issues Reduced bone density Moreover, a healthy diet supports proper blood circulation, which is essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients to the feet. Poor blood circulation can lead to cramping in the lower extremities, fatigue, varicose veins, and even ulcers, which are very dangerous for diabetics. Lastly, when we fuel our bodies with whole foods and don’t overeat (it’s okay to indulge on occasion!), we can maintain a healthy weight. Living your life at a healthy weight poses many benefits for your feet, including: Enhanced mobility and flexibility Decreased strain on the foot (your feet are carrying less weight, which is extra important when you have flat feet) Improved circulation to the feet Less edema and water/salt retention The Best Healthy Diet for your Feet Now let’s get to the fun part — exploring all of the yummy and nutrient-rich foods you should eat for strong feet! Check below for a list of the top choices to help your feet feel great. Keep in mind you can eat many more foods than these; we just think these options stand out as foot health power foods! Salmon: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and promote joint health. Leafy greens: High in vitamins and minerals like calcium, magnesium, and vitamin K, which are essential for bone health. Berries: Packed with antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and improve circulation. Nuts and seeds: Good sources of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals that support overall foot health. Greek yogurt: Contains calcium and probiotics, beneficial for bone density. Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate foot pain and swelling. Avocados: Provides healthy fats and potassium, essential for maintaining proper muscle function and reducing cramping. Beans and legumes: High in fiber, protein, and various nutrients that support overall health and can help prevent foot-related complications like diabetes. To learn more about great foods for foot health, read here. In terms of what to avoid or eat in moderation, foods that cause inflammation are the main culprits. These include: Red and processed meats Baked goods and pasta made with refined carbohydrates Deep fried foods High-sugar foods like candy and soda Foods with trans fat (certain types of butter, chips, etc)

April 8, 2024

The Link Between Footwear and Back Pain: What You Need to Know

Back pain is common among adults, with up to 80% of people experiencing back pain at least once in their lifetime. While the causes of back pain can vary, one often overlooked factor is the type of footwear we wear. Believe it or not, the shoes we put on our feet can significantly impact our spinal health. This article will explore the connection between footwear and back pain and provide insights into choosing shoes to support a healthy back. The alignment connection Our feet are the foundation of our body's alignment, and our shoes play a crucial role in maintaining proper alignment from the ground up. When we wear shoes with inadequate support or that don't fit properly, it can throw off the alignment of our feet, leading to a chain reaction of misalignment throughout the body, including the spine. This misalignment can cause strain on the muscles and ligaments of the back, leading to discomfort and pain. High heels and back pain One of the most well-known culprits of back pain is high heels. While they may be fashionable, high heels can wreak havoc on the spine. The elevated heel alters the spine's natural curvature, increasing pressure on the lower back and making the muscles to work harder to maintain balance. Over time, this can lead to muscle imbalances, postural issues, and chronic back pain. Flat shoes and lack of support Conversely, flat shoes with inadequate support can also contribute to back pain. Shoes that lack proper arch support don't provide necessary shock absorption and stability, leading to increased stress on the spine. Additionally, shoes with worn-out soles or insufficient cushioning can exacerbate back pain by failing to provide adequate protection against impact forces. Choosing the right footwear So, what can we do to prevent back pain and promote spinal health through our footwear choices? Here are some tips for selecting the right shoes: Opt for shoes with adequate arch support to maintain the spine's natural curvature. Look for cushioned soles that provide shock absorption to reduce impact on the spine. Choose shoes with a supportive heel counter to stabilize the foot and ankle. Ensure proper fit by wearing shoes and walking around to assess comfort and support. Consider orthotic inserts or custom-made orthotics to address specific foot issues and improve overall alignment. When it comes to back pain, every step counts. By paying attention to our shoes and choosing footwear that supports spinal health, we can take proactive steps to prevent discomfort and promote overall well-being.

April 4, 2024

The Science of Walking: How Foot Mechanics Impact Your Health

Today we delve into the relationship between walking and health, with a specific focus on foot mechanics and how crucial they are. The impact walking has on your overall health is something most people don’t think about in their day-to-day life. But foot motion science suggests everyone should learn about this topic! When your walking pattern is compromised, even slightly, it can put you at risk of developing foot pain, in addition to heel and ankle pain, back pain, knee pain and even hip pain! This can wreak havoc on your overall life as you experience worsening discomfort. Let’s explore more about the connection between your walking pattern and overall health! The Connection Between Walking and Overall Health To start, here are some basic tidbits of info to remember: The scientific term for “walking pattern” is gait. There is an inverse relationship between musculoskeletal foot conditions and your gait. Foot issues can lead to gait abnormalities as you try to accommodate new pain while still getting to the places you need to go. However, abnormal walking patterns can also put you at risk of developing additional problems. In addition to pre-existing foot conditions, risk factors that may lead to gait abnormalities include age-related foot changes, your foot type (flat feet or high arches), having foot/ankle injuries in the past, balance and neurological disorders, and ill-fitting and low-quality footwear. Common Types of Gait Abnormalities and How They Affect Our Health Two gait abnormalities we see a lot at Feet First Clinic are overpronation and supination. Overpronation is synonymous with flat feet and the resultant issues that develop when you have a flat/fallen arch. When you “overpronate,” your foot rolls inward excessively as you stride forward. Supination is when you place too much weight on the outside of your feet. These walking patterns are often subconscious and your way of trying to adjust to having “non-typical” feet. Gait abnormalities can completely mess with your lower extremities. In more scientific words, they affect your feet and ankles and lead to misalignments in the lower body, which may contribute to issues such as knee pain, hip discomfort, and lower back problems. This is because your body’s skeletal system is connected and everything must work in harmony. You are also more prone to injury when you overpronate! Lastly, there are many specific versions of gait abnormalities. One may not overpronate or supinate, but different types of pain can result in various compensatory movements. Check out this valuable resource from Stanford Medicine for more. Treating Abnormal Walking Patterns Don’t worry if you think you may have a gait abnormality. Unless your walking pattern is caused by a severe medical issue, you can often work hard at correcting it. There are many services, medical devices, and products you can try. Foot assessment: Understanding your feet is the first step (no pun intended!). Video gait analysis: This will provide valuable insights into biomechanical issues, your foot type, and any noticeable abnormalities. Custom-made orthotics: Orthotics work by improving your gait, over time, and with correct usage. Strengthening and balance exercises: These improve muscle strength, coordination, and stability. Surgical interventions (in severe cases of foot deformities, for instance, bunion correction). Footwear modifications: Medical shoes and stability/motion control shoes can often help. Focusing on your posture: This helps properly align the body’s skeletal structure. Remember: everything is connected, from head to toe!

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Navigating the World of Orthopaedic Footwear: Fashion Meets Functionality

What Does Orthopaedic Footwear Do?

Common Misconceptions About Stylish Orthopaedic Footwear

Where to Find Fashionable Orthopaedic Footwear

Find Orthopaedic Shoes at Feet First Clinic!

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Related Posts

Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis

Age-Defying Foot Care: Keeping Your Feet Youthful at Any Age

Innovative Treatments for Common Foot Problems in 2024

Preventing Sports Injuries: Essential Foot Care for Athletes

The Role of Nutrition in Foot Health

The Link Between Footwear and Back Pain: What You Need to Know

The Science of Walking: How Foot Mechanics Impact Your Health

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