The Best Shoes From ASICS

November 17, 2021

ASICS shoes are some of the best on the market. While they’re highly beneficial for athletes in terms of performance enhancement, they’re also suitable for anyone looking for maximum comfort in their daily activities. Ill-fitting and non-supportive footwear are the biggest contributing factors to many common foot issues. That’s why chiropodists recommend comfortable, supportive footwear for treating and preventing several chronic foot conditions. It doesn’t matter if you’re a superstar athlete; ASICS running shoes are an excellent choice for people who care about foot health and managing foot pain flare-ups.

This top-tier shoe company is known for producing quality stability shoes and neutral shoes. ASICS understands that many people need neutral shoes, and many need stability shoes. For that reason, they’re able to produce excellent versions of both. Let’s look at the difference between the two and highlight some of the best ASICS shoes on the market:

Stability ASICS Shoes

Stability shoes help control excessive motion in the foot and ankle and overpronation (when the foot rolls inward and downward toward the arch). This type of movement often leads to flat feet. Overpronation can also make people more likely to sustain an injury or develop a foot condition. More specifically, overpronation is linked to the following conditions and injuries:

Flat Feet
Bunions
Achilles tendonitis
Stress fractures in the foot or leg
Plantar fasciitis
Lower back pain

Stability shoes work by favourably aligning the foot to a neutral position and providing extra arch support. ASICS stability shoes include a variety of innovative technologies in the midsole that work together to provide an exceptionally stable walking and running experience. The main stability features are the 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. ASICS’s specially designed heel counter also provides added stability. All together, these features help reduce the strain on the joints and muscles caused by overpronation. For more information on these technologies, you can visit ASICS’ website, which offers helpful diagrams to illustrate how these features work.

If you think you need stability shoes or suspect you overpronate during movement, you can consult with a chiropodist. They may point you in the direction of some of the classic ASICS stability shoes listed below. The best thing about seeing the chiropodists at Feet First Clinic is that you can get your foot assessment and footwear all under one roof: Your fantastic chiropodist can perform a biomechanical assessment and make footwear recommendations, after which you can try them on and get them on site. Our friendly foot staff is here to help size you and guide you through your next shoe purchase.

Below are our top recommended stability shoes from ASICS:

Gel Kayano

The Gey-Kayano (pictured above) has a reputation for being ASICS’s top stability shoe. It provides the most cushioning and stability among ASICS’s stability shoes, featuring the highest level of TRUSSTIC and DYNAMIC DUAMAX technologies. It includes classic ASICS features, including the infamous GEL® technology for the ultimate soft, cushioned ASICS experience. The max cushioning is also important for shock absorption, which works by cushioning and protecting your joints from the impact of your foot striking the ground. This lets you walk comfortably for longer without feeling the strain in your joints and muscles. Furthermore, the Gel-Kayano is made with FLYTEFOAM propel cushioning that gives you an extra spring to your step.

The Gel-Kayano is the right choice for people who experience moderate or severe overpronation, and who need maximum cushioning and arch support. It’s Feet First Clinic’s #1 recommendation for people with foot pain who overpronate, have flat feet, or seeking strong arch support and structure.

GT-1000

The GT-1000 from ASICS is a good option if you have mild to moderate overpronation. It provides moderate stability and sufficient, comfortable cushioning with the FLYTEFOAM™ technology. It’s also lightweight compared to other stability shoes. That said, it doesn’t sacrifice durability! This shoe is a great choice for everyday wear, especially if your lifestyle involves staying on your feet for long hours. The mesh upper promotes breathability and a healthy foot climate, which is important for people who wear shoes for long periods. A healthy foot climate can help fight and prevent foot conditions like foot odour, fungal infections and athlete’s foot. The GT-1000 also has other classic ASICS features, like their rearfoot GEL technology for consistent shock absorption.

The GT-1000 features ASICS’s DYNAMIC DUOMAX technology systems to ensure stability for people who overpronate or need a little extra control from their shoes. The GT1000 does provide a little less stability, motion control, and cushioning than the Gel-Kayano and GT-2000. Because of this, it is a more economical option for the budget-conscious.

GT-2000

The GT-2000 is another stability shoe from ASICS. Essentially the same as the GT-1000, it does have a few distinguishable features. This includes more responsive cushioning. According to Runner Click, extra responsive cushioning is another way to describe a shoe having more “energy.” It works by putting more power into your push-off and strides during a run. This makes it a good choice for runners looking for a consistently vigorous experience. That said, you don’t need to be a runner to show interest in the GT2000! The extra cushioning is beneficial for anyone seeking a little extra shock absorption and a softer footbed. While it does provide more cushioning and stability features than the GT-1000, it doesn’t provide as much as the Gel-Kayano. The GT-2000’s extra cushioning and stability features also make it slightly more expensive than the GT-1000.

In terms of stability features, the ASICS GT-2000 has the same DYNAMIC DUOMAX technology as the Gel-Kayano and GT-1000. It also has LITETRUSS technology, which is a scaled-down version of the TRUSSTIC technology offered in the Gel-Kayano. This allows for a little more freedom of movement and flexibility than the Gel-Kayano, but slightly less motion control for correcting overpronation.

Neutral ASICS Shoes

Neutral running shoes typically don’t have the same stabilizing features as stability shoes. Because of this, they allow for more flexibility and freedom of movement. They’re suitable for people who supinate (heels lean outward, placing more pressure on sides of the foot), have high arches, or have a neutral gait. A neutral gait means your feet and ankles align properly during movement, which means you don’t necessarily need a stability shoe with foot and ankle control characteristics.

That said, ASICS shoes are special in that even their neutral shoes provide the stabilizing features offered in their stability shoes – just to a lesser degree. Therefore, you’ll still get great support and control from an ASICS runner, which is essential for any foot – whether or not you have foot concerns.

The Gel-Nimbus and the Gel-Cumulus are our top neutral ASICS shoes, and come highly recommended by Toronto foot specialists.

Gel-Nimbus

The Gel-Nimbus is the perfect choice for people who are prone to foot pain and foot sensitivities. Furthermore, it’s an exceptionally good choice for people struggling with osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis in the feet, knees and low back. Healthline notes that the Gel-Nimbus is also the best ASICS option for active people with knee pain flare-ups. The ASICS Gel-Nimbus is ideal for these conditions thanks to its maximum cushioning. In fact, it has the most cushioning out of all ASICS runners and is super soft. In addition to the soft comfort, the max level of GEL® cushioning technology gives these shoes maximum shock-absorbing properties. This also makes it perfect for people who supinate and have high arches, since these conditions cause extra shock on the lower body.

Even though the Gel-Nimbus is considered a neutral runner, it still offers the structured supportive features featured in many of ASICS’ stability shoes, including firm arch support, a specially engineered external heel counter, and the TRUSSTIC technology. It’s for all of these reasons that the ASICS Gel-Nimbus is Feet First Clinic’s #1 recommended neutral shoe.

If you want to see the Gel Nimbus in action, you can stop by Feet First Clinic, where you’ll often see Erica sporting her own pair around the clinic (pictured above). Erica loves the extra cushioning and shock absorption her Gel Nimbuses give her, which helps with her rheumatoid arthritis. She also swears by the arch support for her plantar fasciitis.

Gel-Cumulus

Inspired by cumulus clouds, the Gel-Cumulus is another ASICS staple. Great for people who love a smooth run and effortless walking experience, the upper and midsole are both designed to conform to each user’s foot anatomy while in motion. A layer of ASICS signature GEL® technology under the heel provides medium cushioning, and the FLYTEFOAM™ midsole supports your feet consistently throughout the day. The Gel-Cumulus also includes the AHAR® LITE outsole, which adds an extra layer of durability to the shoe.

The Gel-Cumulus is a great option for people who want a little more bounce and speed from their running shoes. Even though it’s not quite as cushioned and soft as the Gel-Nimbus, most people find the cushioning more than ample. It’s also offered a lower price point than the Gel-Nimbus, making it a more economical foot-friendly option for neutral walkers seeking a high-quality, durable, cushioned shoe.

Interested in ASICS Shoes? Try Feet First Toronto!

Our Bloor West foot clinic is the perfect place for both high-quality footwear and thorough foot assessments and treatment. Whether you have foot pain, are a frequent runner or just need some comfy sneakers for your day-to-day activities, our multi-purpose foot clinic is here to guide you towards making the right footwear choices!

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October 22, 2021

Supportive Footwear For Your Workout

Toronto is full of gyms, fitness classes, and unique outdoor spaces perfect for running and exercise throughout the year. That said, it's imperative to remember to invest in supportive footwear for your fitness activities! Stable and secure footwear can help protect you from sudden foot and ankle injuries. Furthermore, supportive workout footwear can provide cushioning technology and structural designs that lessen the impact of your steps on your joints, accommodate your gait pattern and foot type, and help reduce pressure and strain on your joints and muscles. This keeps your feet from tiring out quickly, so you can exercise for as long as possible. There are even more reasons to ensure you have supportive footwear, which we'll break down in today's article. With that said, let's look at why you need supportive footwear, and discuss three footwear products that will keep you exercising comfortably. Supportive Footwear For Your Workout Saucony runners Superfeet insoles Custom orthotics Saucony Runners This one is obvious, but the most important thing you'll need for your workout is an excellent pair of supportive shoes. Your shoes need to complement your workout routine while giving your feet enough arch support, toe room, cushioning, breathability, and accommodating your foot type and gait. One unique brand that deserves praise from seasoned athletes and gym newbies alike is Saucony. When selecting the right supportive running shoe for your workout, it's important to base your decision on your foot needs, foot type and gait pattern - not the colour and look of the shoe. Believe it or not, the shoe model does matter. Different models are constructed and designed for different purposes and needs. That's why Saucony carries an array of running shoes for different purposes. Whatever your needs, workout routines and preferences, Saucony has the right shoe for you. In this article, we are featuring Saucony's most supportive running shoes: Triumph Hurricane Endorphin Guide Omni Triumph The Triumph is one of the most well-known shoes from Saucony, and receives high ratings and reviews from notable running websites. It is one of our top picks for people with normal sized arches and a "neutral" gait (meaning your ankle and foot stays in a neutral position and doesn't roll when you move). An excellent all-purpose shoe, its supreme cushioning is perfect for people who love being active. More specifically, Saucony's signature PWRRUN+ foam cushioning ensures endless comfort during your workout and provides that cloud-like feeling. This goes for beginner runners, marathon enthusiasts, and anyone in between! If you enjoy running for long distances, you can sport the Saucony Triumph and enjoy a stress-free run that reduces fatigue in your legs and feet and helps prevents onset foot pain. Hurricane Do you need structured arch support and stability in your workout shoes? If this sounds like you, Saucony's Hurricane may be the optimal choice. The Hurricane is a stability shoe, and is our top pick for people who have flat feet, foot pain, need strong arch support, or overpronate (meaning that your ankles and feet roll in when you move). It's designed as an all-in-one running and medical shoe, and offers the highest level of stability amongst Saucony shoes (second to the Omni). People who have foot pain, flat feet, or experience issues like plantar fasciitis should seek shoes with structured arch support, like that provided by the Hurricane. Naturally, flat feet do not have a pronounced arch, which affects your biomechanics and causes foot pain, joint strain, stiffness and reduced mobility. A lack of arch support can also affect important aspects of your workout routines, like balance and how you distribute your bodyweight, which can increase your risk of injury. The Hurricane's stability features come from its TPU guidance frame, which supports, stabilizes, and essentially guides the foot and ankle as you move so that your ankles don't roll. Best of all, the shoe provides all this support without feeling restrictive or getting in the way of your workout. The Hurricane can help accommodate the natural shape of your foot and ensure your workout goes as smoothly as possible. Endorphin Shift The Endorphin from Saucony is another stability running shoe. It is built very similar to the Hurricane, but is more geared towards the needs of those who want a little extra spring in their step. If speed and long-distance running is your exercise of choice, you might want to give the Endorphin a try. It's also an especially useful shoe if you like to run on your favourite Toronto trails and areas with harsher terrain. It gives devoted runners an extra spring in their step with its SPEEDROLL technology, propelling you forward and giving you excellent momentum. Like most Saucony shoes, it also includes the exceptionally comfortable PWRRUN+ foam cushioning. The Endorphin is ideal for people seeking a fast running shoe, who also need the added arch support and structure of a stability shoe. The Endorphin offers a little less stability and supportive features than the Hurricane (in exchange for that extra speed and movement), but more than the Guide (below). Guide The Saucony Guide is arguably their most lightweight and free-moving stability shoe, and again, includes the PWRRUN+ foam cushioning. The tonal medial TPU guidance frame and 3D-engineered fascia ensure your entire foot and ankle is secure and stable, without crowding the shoe's sleek appearance. As such, it also pairs nicely with the day-t0-day outfits you like to wear after your workout. The Saucony Guide promises a flawless fit and lightweight experience for not only your workouts but your everyday activities. The level of stability and support for overpronation is more toned-down than the Endorphin, Hurricane and Omni, which makes it a workout option if you don't require as much motion control in your running shoe, but still want some stability features. (Note: Puppy not included with shoes) Omni The Omni provides the highest level of stability among Saucony's shoes. It is similar to the Endorphin with its SPEEDROLL technology, extended medial post and "faster take on stability." The PWRRUN+ foam cushioning is soft on your feet while still allowing for a spring in your step. The Omni strives to prove to athletes that stability doesn't mean stiff, inflexible and confined. Quite the opposite, the FORMFIT construction and FLEX groove configuration hugs your feet snugly while keeping them flexible. If you're more into a walking shoe than a running shoe, you should also check out the Omni Walker - one of our most popular walking and everyday all-purpose shoes for people with foot concerns. Superfeet Insoles Superfeet insoles go hand-in-hand with your running shoes during your favourite workouts. High quality, over-the-counter insoles work primarily by giving your feet extra cushioning and improving shock absorption by reducing the force of impact of your steps. They are especially useful for those with plantar fasciitis, bunions or arthritis who want to enjoy the benefits of regular exercise and don't want to let their foot conditions stand in the way. For those with plantar fasciitis, Superfeet insoles can reduce the pressure felt by the plantar fascia ligament that connects your heel bone to your toes. When it comes to bunions, Superfeet notes that the shape of their insoles helps reduce excess motion. This lessens the exertion of your big toe, reducing stress and strain (people with bunions experience painful bony protrusions that extend from the joint at the base of the big toe). Superfeet insoles include a stabilizer cap heel, which helps with alignment. The foam used to make the insoles also provide great cushioning. Lastly, the insoles contain a deep heel cup that provides shock absorption with every step. Superfeet insoles come in a wide variety of colours, with each offering different benefits and levels of cushioning and support. Feet First Clinic notes that Superfeet Green and Superfeet Orange are excellent choices for foot pain management. Superfeet Orange is similar to the green but includes more cushioning. Superfeet Blue are an excellent choice for people with flat feet who enjoy vigorous exercise, like running and hiking. What's more, Superfeet Berry insoles are designed especially for women. You can use them for everyday activities and while playing sports and exercising. Lastly, Superfeet Carbon is a good performance enhancement option for running shoes and cleats. Custom Orthotics Investing in a pair of custom orthotics prescribed by a Toronto chiropodist is another supportive footwear option that works wonders for performance enhancement. If you're finding your foot conditions and foot pain is getting in the way of your physical activity goals, then custom orthotics may be the solution! First, orthotics can give you more ankle stability during your workouts. This is essential for people who overpronate. Even if you don't have any particular foot concerns, ankle stability is highly beneficial for both cardio and strengthening workouts where your form is incredibly important. During exercise, you can often feel shaky and unstable on your feet and ankles when trying to master the right form and stance, which can increase your risk of a workout mishap or injury. Working out with a pair of custom orthotics fitting snugly inside your sneakers can help reduce this risk. Wearing orthotics during your workouts can also prevent your feet, lower legs and ankles from tiring out quickly. If you have a certain foot condition, they can help you manage foot pain by favourably realigning your feet. Specifically, people with flat feet, high arches, plantar fasciitis, bunions and other musculoskeletal foot conditions can exercise more comfortably. This will help you perform for longer periods and exert energy more efficiently. This benefit is most noticeable in workouts with a lot of walking or running, such as playing sports or running on a treadmill. In essence, orthotics can inspire you to exercise more if you know you have an extra layer of comfort and support for your feet.

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!

April 1, 2024

Spring Footwear Trends 2024: What’s Hot for Healthy Feet

As the seasons transition and we bid farewell to the winter chill, it's time to update our footwear game for the vibrant days of spring. This year, the trends are about combining style with functionality, ensuring your feet look and feel good. From casual sneakers to rugged hikers, here are the top trendy shoes for spring footwear trends for 2024 that will elevate your style while keeping you comfortable and prepared for whatever the season throws. Sneakers Sneakers, particularly those embodying Converse style, combine timeless fusion and a bit of flair. Pair them with jeans for a laid-back vibe, or dress them up slightly for an elevated look. Ara Fusion Lilly First up on our list of trendy shoes for spring 2024 are the Ara Fusion Lilly sneakers in a sleek grey hue. These sneakers blend style and comfort effortlessly, making them perfect for the transitional period before summer arrives. Their classic sneaker silhouette and subtle grey colour are versatile enough to pair with any outfit, from jeans and a tee to a casual sundress. Plus, their stretchable, breathable construction is perfect for accomodating bunions and hammertoes, so your feet stay relaxed and comfortable all day. Slip-ons Slip-on sneakers allow individuals to slide them on and off effortlessly with no fuss. Wear slip-ons to run errands or to more casual outings without sacrificing comfort and style. NAOT Okahu Slip-ons are a must-have for any spring wardrobe, and the NAOT Okahu in black is a stylish choice that ticks all the boxes. These sleek slip-ons feature a minimalist design with a comfortable footbed that moulds to your feet for a personalized fit. Whether running errands or meeting friends for brunch, these shoes will keep you looking effortlessly chic while providing the support your feet need. They're perfect for those days when you're on the go. Transitional sneakers Transitional sneakers are another one of our top spring footwear trends. Their adaptable nature allows wearers to effortlessly go from work, to errands, to city strolls, complementing a range of outfits and lifestyles with their understated yet contemporary allure. Clarks Nalle Lace For a versatile shoe that seamlessly transitions from day to night, look no further than the Clarks Nalle Lace. These sneakers feature a classic lace-up design with a modern twist, making them perfect for the in-between period before summer arrives. Their lightweight construction and breathable materials ensure your feet stay comfortable all day, while their sleek silhouette adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Whether heading to the office or out for a night on the town, these sneakers have you covered. Clarks Craft Swift Men, step up your shoe game this spring with the Clarks Craft Swift. These casual shoes combine style and functionality, making them perfect for everyday wear. Whether running errands or meeting friends for a casual outing, these shoes will keep you looking sharp and comfortable. Their durable construction and supportive footbeds ensure long-lasting wear, while their classic design adds a touch of sophistication to any ensemble. Their versatile black colour makes them easy to pair with any outfit. GORE-TEX sneakers Engineered with GORE-TEX membrane, these sneakers offer exceptional waterproofing and breathability, keeping feet dry and comfortable in any weather. ASICS Gel-Sonoma GTX For adventurous souls who love to explore the great outdoors, the ASICS Gel-Sonoma GTX hikers are a must-have for spring 2024. Thanks to their GORE-TEX construction, these rugged shoes are designed to tackle any terrain, from rocky trails to muddy paths, while keeping your feet dry and comfortable.

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Carolina Charles

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