March 30, 2023
For those with chronic foot pain, it can be downright impossible to achieve pain management on a substantial level. But if you wear custom orthotics with your shoes, long-lasting comfort may be just around the corner.
Custom orthotic insoles are among the most popular medical devices chiropodists offer their patients. Per Harvard Health , foot specialists prescribe orthotic inserts when the "muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, or bones are not in an optimal functional position and are causing pain, discomfort, and fatigue." The key word here is "custom," meaning these insoles are specifically designed for your unique needs and tailor-made to target each individual's chronic pain. They are not the same as insoles you can buy over the counter, which appeal to the masses.
But it's not enough to simply take our word for it. Understanding the science behind custom orthotics and how they aid so many different foot issues is important. In today's blog, we'll explore three main topics:
How custom orthotics treat chronic foot pain
What conditions can you treat with custom orthotics?
How to acquire custom orthotics
How Custom Orthotics Treat Chronic Foot Pain
Orthotics have one main job: to correct the foot's walking and standing position.
Those with a painful foot condition, or those predisposed to developing one due to flat feet or high arches, often adapt slightly unusual walking patterns to compensate for their less-than-ideal foot structure. The two main ways we do this include:
Overpronation (flat feet): When the foot and ankle roll slightly inward and downward with every step. In this case, orthotics adjust your foot's position by offering sufficient arch support.
Underpronation/Supination (high arches): When the foot's heel leans outward, putting excess weight on the outer edge of the foot. Orthotics can correct this by stabilizing the foot's steps.
Orthotics also help with chronic foot pain caused by joint and muscle conditions like arthritis and pain caused by severe foot deformities, such as bunions and hammertoes.
They do this by placing the foot in a position that reduces excess force and pressure on the foot's mot vulnerable and painful areas during movement. Not only does this relieve strain, but proper alignment of the feet can also help avoid future back, knee and hip pain.
What Foot Conditions Can You Treat With Custom Orthotics?
Custom insoles can help treat a wide array of common foot issues. Some of these:
Plantar fasciitis: Orthotics support the foot's arch and provide extra cushioning and shock absorption for the heel.
Osteoarthritis: Orthotics immobilize, support, or correct the joints' movements while stabilizing walking.
Bunions: Orthotics help reduce excessive pressure on the big toe joint.
Morton's neuroma: Orthotics prevent the rolling together of bones in the metatarsal arch (the arch responsible for distributing weight, located just behind the ball of the foot).
Metatarsalgia: Semirigid orthotics reduce pressure in painful areas and support the feet.
Achille's Tendonitis: Orthotics reduce the load and strain on the Achille's tendon while supporting the foot as the tissue heals.
Gout: Supportive orthotics with sufficient cushioning can help with gout attacks by reducing joint pressure.
Hammertoes: Orthotics counteract the muscle-tendon imbalance that causes hammertoes. They also align the bones in the foot and provide cushioning in crucial areas.
How to Acquire Custom Orthotics
The best way to secure the perfect pair of custom insoles is to schedule the appropriate appointments with your chiropodist.
They start with a thorough biomechanical assessment that includes a test of your range of motion and weight-bearing tendencies, as well as a gait analysis.
Following this, your chiropodist will use one of several casting techniques to make custom orthotics by capturing your foot in the ideal position. And lastly, you can schedule an appointment for a fitting when your orthotics arrive to ensure they're working properly.
Check out our main orthotics page to read more about securing custom orthotics. You can also learn more about the benefits of custom orthotics and the several different kinds by viewing our comprehensive guide to orthotics.
March 20, 2023
Are you experiencing foot arch pain? You’re not alone.
The arches of our feet support our weight when we're upright, providing a critical function for the body. Your arch also influences how you move, making it essential to keep them healthy and supported. But, sometimes, pain can creep up.
We're here to help. This blog post outlines how foot arch pain develops and how to nip foot arch discomfort early to prevent long-term effects.
What is foot arch pain?
Foot arch pain can be a subtle or intense discomfort in the curved, raised area along the bottom of the foot (the arch). The arch is the midpoint of the foot between the ball and the heel of the foot. It comprises bones, ligaments, and tendons in the foot, which support the body's weight and help absorb shock during walking and other activities.
A person's arch is unique. The height and shape of the arch vary from person to person. Genetics, age, and the type of shoes a person wears all play a role in the arch's shape. Foot arch pain is a common source of discomfort and may occur for various reasons. You may experience pain in different parts of the arch: the medial arch (inside edge), the lateral arch (outer edge), and the transverse arch (middle).
Next, we get into the causes of foot arch pain.
What causes foot arch pain?
Foot arch pain can be acute or chronic, typically stemming from inflammation. Pain can also range from a dull soreness to an intense sensation. Below, we outline the various causes of foot arch pain.
Overuse or repetitive stress
Foot arch pain can be simply the result of doing too much in too short a period. Repeated stress or overuse of the feet can lead to inflammation and pain in the arches. Overuse is especially prevalent in sports, with running, jumping, or even standing for long periods (like at work or if you stand at your desk while working from home).
Flat feet
Flat feet occur when the arch comes in complete contact with the ground due to weakened tendons and ligaments that can no longer hold up the arch. While flat feet may not always cause problems, individuals with fallen arches may require treatment such as supportive shoes or custom orthotics to alleviate symptoms and prevent further damage.
Plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis affects the bottom of the foot and causes heel pain. This foot condition occurs when the band of tissue between your heel and toes becomes irritated. Plantar fasciitis can happen for various reasons, such as overuse, repetitive strain, or injury to the foot.
People who are overweight, have flat feet or high arches, or engage in activities that stress the feet, such as running or standing for long periods, are more likely to develop plantar fasciitis. You may experience pain and stiffness in the heel or arch of the foot, especially in the morning or after walking, running, or standing.
Arthritis
Arthritis describes conditions that cause inflammation and damage to the joints. Various forms of arthritis can lead to arch pain. Types of arthritis that cause arch pain include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis.
Injury
You may experience foot arch pain because of past trauma or injury. Conditions like sprains, strains, or falls can cause arch pain due to acute muscle damage, ligament, and tendon damage.
Now that you know the various causes of arch pain, let's get into treatment methods.
How can foot arch pain be treated?
Foot arch pain treatment can sometimes be frustrating due to our reliance on our arch. Staying off our feet to reduce stress on the arch can be challenging, but fortunately, there are several effective treatment options for foot arch pain. Depending on the intensity of the pain, you may choose a DIY treatment method. If your arch pain is persistent or severe, we recommend seeing a foot specialist to discuss treatment options and create a treatment plan.
Rest and ice
A mix of rest and ice is an effective treatment method for foot arch pain. First, temporarily reduce impactful activities and allow your feet to rest. Supplement rest with icing to keep swelling and inflammation down. (You can even use a frozen water bottle as an icy massage tool by rolling your feet on the bottle.) Then, when you feel like you're on the upswing, ease slowly back into physical activity. Avoid returning to strenuous activity to allow your body to readjust from rest to being active.
Stretching
Stretching exercises can help improve flexibility and relieve tension in the arches. Here are a few effective stretching and strengthening exercises for arch pain:
Place a towel on the floor, and grab the towel with your toes pulling it towards you.
Grasp your toes (while seated), and scrunch them towards you to feel a stretch in your arch.
Lean against a wall with your arms extended, and move your hips forward to stretch your calves.
Shockwave Therapy
This non-invasive innovative treatment delivers high-energy sound wave pulses to the affected area. Shockwave therapy triggers your body’s natural healing response to repair the damaged tissue in the arch area and reduce pain. Shockwave therapy is scientifically proven to be a highly effective treatment for chronic arch pain caused by plantar fasciitis. It is an excellent supplement to other treatments like orthotics and supportive footwear.
Orthotics
Custom-made orthotics can provide additional support and cushioning to the arches, which can help reduce pain and discomfort. Orthotics work to correct or accommodate biomechanical abnormalities, foot deformities, and other conditions to improve your gait and manage pain. The purpose of orthotics is to redistribute the force and pressure placed on our muscles and joints when we move. Equal distribution across your feet means fewer aches and pains as your muscles work better in tandem instead of select groups overworking.
Supportive footwear
Shoes with good arch support can alleviate arch pain, much like orthotics can. Wearing the proper footwear for your feet and the purpose is the least we can do for our feet. Supportive footwear acts to provide both the correct cushioning and
Physical therapy
Physical therapy can help improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the feet and ankles. Keeping your feet strong and balanced is vital to proper arch support. Over time, the tendons and ligaments of the arch tend to weaken. Physical therapy can help combat age and fallen arches.
Medications
You may supplement the above treatment methods with over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce inflammation. Consult a doctor if you have intense pain or have questions about dosage or the recommended medication.
February 23, 2023
Foot health isn't just important because it keeps the foundation of your body in good condition. There is also a direct link between foot health and overall wellness!
Forgetting to practice foot care and foot pain management can trigger a domino effect that leads to other health problems. If you have a nagging sense that your body and mind feel generally "unwell," it could all stem from neglecting to take care of your body's foundation and lower extremities.
Here are some of the most common problems associated with poor foot health that we'll discuss today:
Back, hip and knee pain
Posture and balance
Heart health and diabetes
Mental health
Back, Hip and Knee Pain
Our body's joints, ligaments, tendons and nerves need our feet to be in good shape. If they aren't, it can lead to a concerning trickle-down (or trickle-up!) effect that jeopardizes the rest of our body. The most common symptoms of this effect are back pain, hip pain and knee pain.
First, your lower back will take a hit if you don't wear shoes with proper shock absorption and arch support. The effects will transfer upwards, resulting in low back pain. People who work long hours without the right footwear often notice this and not know the reason why.
Furthermore, if you have frequent foot pain, it will alter your gait. This means you adopt abnormal walking patterns to navigate life with chronic pain, such as using your tip-toes or the outside of the feet to bear weight. The unusual walking pattern causes extra strain on the joints and muscles in your lower body from having to move in ways they weren't designed to move. This kickstarts feelings of pain and tightness in the lower back and knees. Your ankles may also roll slightly inwards or outward while walking. People with flat feet or high arches are at risk of experiencing gait-related back and knee pain.
Plantar fasciitis and bunions can also trigger back pain. If you neglect to treat plantar fasciitis, the plantar fascia ligament can become so inflamed that other muscles have to compensate in order to support your weight. This ultimately affects your back. Likewise, bunions cause a misshapen structure in the feet, which can alter your posture and make it difficult to fit into supportive shoes.
Modifying movements due to foot pain also takes a toll on your hips. Bilateral foot pain can lead to pain in the corresponding hips, often due to multi-joint arthritis.
Photo by Karolina Grabowska from Pexels
Heart Health and Diabetes
These connections aren't as farfetched as you think!
Your heart is responsible for transferring oxygen-enriched blood and nutrients to your lower extremities, so if the heart cannot do this for any reason, your feet can mirror your general heart health and wellness. For example, illnesses like diabetes can be a major sign of extremely restricted blood circulation; foot swelling and numbness can be symptoms of this.
Your feet can also show signs of serious heart issues, like heart disease and peripheral artery disease. You may not be able to feel a pulse in your feet, or you may notice excessively shiny skin or hair loss on your toes. Heart failure can also cause foot swelling due to excessive fluid build-up. Plaque accumulation in the arteries can also lead to foot numbness and pain, warning you of peripheral artery disease.
Photo by Puwadon Sang-ngern from Pexels
Posture and Balance
There is a direct correlation between foot and ankle health and posture and balance. According to a study on gait posture published by the National Library of Medicine, poor postural balance in the upright position can pose a greater risk of sudden falls and resulting foot injuries in older people. The study found that improving toe flexor strength via foot stretches and exercises contributes to overall improved postural balance in people over 60.
But it could also be the shape of your foot that lets you down. For instance, people with flat feet risk experiencing muscular imbalances in the legs, ankles and hips. Luckily, simple and non-invasive foot clinic services can help people with flat feet curb this problem, such as wearing custom orthotics or shoes that support a flat arch.
Mental Health
Can't hike on your favourite trails due to foot pain? Or perhaps you simply struggle to get out of the house due to mobility issues.
Since our feet keep us moving, there is a clear link between mental and foot health. Time and time again, fitness proves to be helpful to those struggling with mental illness. But without cooperative feet, it can feel impossible to be physically fit, which leads to a sedentary lifestyle. Feeling stuck inside too often can also cause psychological stress and loneliness. Furthermore, the feeling of consistent pain can cause anxiety and depression.
It can also work both ways. According to a study in Arthritis Care and Research Vol. 66, chronic foot pain can also be a symptom, or manifestation, of major depression.
Photo by Suzy Hazelwood from Pexels
February 20, 2023
Athletes, are you experiencing foot pain or injuries? It could be your shoes.
Athletes push themselves and their bodies to the limits. Given the intense nature of sports, athletes need the proper equipment to perform at their best and stay healthy - and that includes athletic footwear.
Proper footwear for athletes is crucial as it provides essential support, protection, and comfort needed for their respective sports. Proper footwear helps prevent injuries by stabilizing the foot and ankle, reducing shock and impact, and providing proper arch support. It also helps enhance performance by providing grip, traction, and stability and allowing for efficient movement. Additionally, proper footwear is essential for injury rehabilitation and recovery.
Proper footwear isn't reserved just for professional athletes. Anyone who participates in a sport is an athlete. Even hobbyists can benefit from good foot hygiene and proper equipment.
In this article, you'll learn about the importance of proper footwear for athletes for preventing and treating common foot conditions. We explore seven sports and the role of athletic shoes:
Running
Soccer
Basketball
Tennis
What are the most common foot injuries among athletes?
Athletes are prone to various types of foot injuries due to the nature of their sport and the physical demands placed on their feet. Some of the most common foot injuries among athletes include:
Sprains are an injury to the ligaments, the bands of tissue connecting bones. Sprains can occur in the foot and ankle due to a sudden twist or turn. Athletic shoes that are made for your sport's playing surface and provide good ankle support can help reduce your risk of sprains.
Stress fractures are small bone cracks that occur due to repetitive stress on the foot and are common in runners and other athletes who engage in high-impact sports. Wearing athletic shoes with cushioning for shock absorption will help.
Plantar fasciitis is a condition that results in pain and inflammation in the bottom of the foot. Overuse of the plantar fascia, the thick group of tissues on the underside of the foot, causes plantar fasciitis. Stability shoes and shoes with good arch support are essential for preventing and managing plantar fasciitis.
Tendinitis is an inflammation of the tissue that connects muscle to bone (tendons). Tendinitis in the foot and ankle stems from overuse or repetitive motions.
Blisters are tiny fluid-filled sacs that form on the feet from friction or pressure. They are prevalent in athletes who play any sport that involves running. Ill-fitting footwear is a common cause of blisters.
Turf toe is damage to the big toe joint caused by excessive bending, often due to playing sports on artificial turf. Wearing athletic shoes designed for the surface you're playing on can go a long way to preventing this common foot injury.
A great way to prevent the above injuries starts by wearing the proper footwear.
What kinds of athletic footwear are there?
You may ask: are sports shoes worth it? The short answer is yes. The long is below (also yes).
There are as many different kinds of athletic footwear as there are sports. Each sport demands different movements, and shoes accommodate the differences.
Specifics of each sport include intensity, surface, and movements. A sport's demands all factor into the makeup of proper footwear. Then comes the specific demands of your feet: foot type, arch, cushioning, fit, and durability.
Regardless of the sport, all athletes should try on various pairs of footwear to see which provides the best fit, support, and comfort for their specific sport.
We discuss how different sports' demands influence footwear and how you can choose the proper pair.
Running
Running shoes are designed specifically for running and have unique features to meet the demands of the activity. That said, running shoes are also a great all-purpose athletic shoe that you can wear for activities like walking, aerobics and your workout. Proper athletic footwear for running can help prevent the most common running injuries, such as shin splints, Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, IT band syndrome, and runner's knee.
Here are a few factors to keep top of mind when choosing running shoes:
Foot type: Running shoes should be chosen based on an individual's foot type (flat feet, high arches, etc.) to provide proper support and prevent injury.
Cushioning: Running shoes should have ample cushioning to absorb impact and provide comfort during each stride.
Breathability: Running shoes should be breathable to prevent sweat and moisture buildup, keeping the feet cool and dry. In the summer, you want shoes to wick moisture. In winter, you may want something waterproof that's also breathable, like Gore-TEX.
Fit: There should be adequate room for your toes in the shoe's toebox. You should be able to freely move your toes in your running. Ill-fitting running shoes can lead to blisters, calluses, and other foot conditions.
Flexibility: Running shoes range in flexibility. You may opt for more rigid shoes if you need more support. Runners looking for a more natural feel may opt for more flexibility and unrestricted movement.
Traction: Running shoes should have good traction to stabilize and prevent slipping on various surfaces. There are many surfaces to run on: pavement, grass, trail, gravel, treadmill, or rubber track. Traction should also take the season and weather conditions into account to ensure you have good grip on slippery surfaces.
Durability: Running shoes should be durable. Typically, running shoes can last between 500-750 kilometres before the material and cushioning break down. You may experience minor aches and pains once your shoes begin to degrade. That's why it's essential to replace running shoes regularly to ensure they provide adequate support and reduce the risk of injury.
The correct mix of the above will help keep you injury-free and make running more enjoyable.
Basketball
Basketball shoes are designed specifically for basketball. Nearly half of all basketball injuries are ankle sprains. Proper footwear is critical in preventing sprains, as well as knee injuries.
Here's why basketball shoes are critical for athletes:
Support: Basketball shoes may ride higher up on the ankles than regular shoes. The lateral movement puts your feet and legs at greater risk of sprains. A higher collar can provide upper ankle support to reduce the risk of rolling. Basketball shoes come in low and high tops, depending on your preference.
Traction: Basketball courts are a mix of concrete, polypropene plastic, and a layer of rubber material. It can be highly slippery without the proper traction. The basketball shoe soles are sticky enough to provide grip but allow players to pivot.
Fit: Basketball shoes should fit snugly but be tight enough and provide enough room for the toes to move freely. Because of the lateral movement, you may be more prone to blisters, calluses, and corns if you use ill-fitting shoes.
Soccer
Soccer footwear, commonly known as cleats, has unique features to meet the demands of the game, most notably studs. Proper footwear is critical for soccer players in preventing ankle sprains, knee sprains, calf strains, meniscus tears, and stress fractures.
Here are several factors to consider when choosing soccer cleats:
Type of surface: Soccer surfaces vary depending on where you play. Cleats vary by grass or artificial turf (fake grass). The surface influences the type and how much traction you need.
Support: Soccer cleats should support the ankles and feet to reduce the risk of injury during quick movements and tackles. Soccer players can expect to run anywhere between 9-13 km during a 90-minute game.
Fit: Soccer cleats should fit snugly but not be too tight and provide enough room for the toes to move freely.
Breathability: Soccer cleats should be breathable to prevent sweat and moisture buildup, keeping the feet cool and dry.
Studs: Soccer cleats should have the appropriate stud configuration for the playing surface to provide adequate traction and stability.
Tennis
Tennis shoes are designed specifically for the sport of tennis and have unique features to meet the demands of the game. Proper footwear can help prevent common tennis injuries, including knee and ankle sprains and patellar tendonitis.
Here are common factors to consider when choosing tennis shoes:
Court surface. Tennis shoes vary by surface. Tennis surfaces include clay, grass, or hard court. Clay courts allow for sliding, while grass courts are softer. Meanwhile, hard courts are concrete, meaning there's maximum traction, but you may be more prone to sprains if you slip or misstep.
Support. Tennis shoes should support the ankles and feet to reduce the risk of injury during quick movements and lateral motions.
Traction. Tennis shoes should have good traction to provide stability and prevent slipping on the court.
Cushioning. Tennis shoes should have ample cushioning to absorb impact and provide comfort during quick movements and jumps. Tennis players cover approximately 10,500 steps during a match (or 6-8km), much of which is lateral movement.
How can athletes reduce their risk of foot injuries?
Proper footwear for athletes is the key piece of equipment for many people who are physically active. However, injury prevention goes beyond just what you wear. There are several ways athletes can reduce their risk of foot injuries.
Wearing proper and well-fitted shoes specific to their sport (you now know this!).
Gradually increase the intensity and duration of their physical activity to avoid overuse injuries.
Stretch and warm up before exercising, and ease into the intensity.
Strength train with a focus on the feet and lower legs.
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce unneeded stress on their feet.
Allow adequate recovery time, including rest between sessions and getting adequate sleep. Seek medical attention if pain or injuries surface.
January 12, 2023
How do we know if our running shoes are high quality? What's more, what should we look for when hunting for new shoes?
It can be easy to simply look for the cheapest pair and call it a day. But before you know it those low-quality running shoes will start to wear down, which puts you at risk of sustaining an injury or developing a chronic foot condition.
Luckily, we've compiled a list of essential features that make a great running shoe!
10 Indicators of Great Running Shoes
Shock absorption
Cushioning
Breathability
Support for your foot type
Weight
Flexibility
Traction
Durability
Waterproof
Bonus Features
Shock Absorption
This is a fancy term for how high-quality athletic shoes withstand impact with the ground. Shock absorbers are frequently mentioned when people discuss vehicles and are described as any device that smoothens or dampens shock impulses.
Shock absorption in your shoes should help your muscles like a car's shock absorbers protect its parts. The National Library of Medicine notes that sufficient shock absorption is required during the landing phase of running or jumping to protect joints and muscles from impact damage.
When looking for new shoes, you should check the level of shock absorption. One of the best shock absorption technologies includes ASICS GEL cushioning, located in their running shoes' forefoot or rearfoot (or both). The GEL compound absorbs the shock from the ground, and its foam midsoles offer a solid rebound. Saucony is another example and uses EVA foam and their Super Rebound Compound (SRC) to provide durable shock absorption in the heel crashpad.
Cushioning
Running shoes for women and men will require a solid amount of cushioning. This will help runners avoid common athletic injuries like Achilles tendonitis, muscle strain and stress fractures and also provide general comfort by combating the onset of foot pain and keeping you on your feet for long-distance runs.
Cushioned running shoes are also beneficial for athletes still recovering from an injury and will provide support and comfort as the foot muscles get back to optimal condition.
ASICS Gel Technology Footwear
Breathability
Wearing running shoes with breathable mesh uppers can work wonders for your foot health. After all, when we exercise, our feet start to sweat, so your new shoes should have a way to ventilate and promote a healthy foot environment. Furthermore, a lack of ventilation can put you at risk of developing athlete's foot or fungal toenails.
Some of the best running shoes for breathability include the Saucony Ride and the Saucony Endorphin. The generously pored mesh and thin fabric help your shoes circulate air and keep the shoe's interior well-ventilated.
Support and Foot Type
If you're wondering if a running shoe is worth investing in, check to see if it advertises its support type. In other words, check if it's a stability, neutral or motion control running shoe.
Generic running and walking shoes often cannot accommodate your specific gait and foot type, but high-quality shoes can.
Here is how to know what type of shoe you will need:
Stability shoes are for people with flat feet who overpronate (the arch collapses upon weight bearing). These shoes may help prevent complications associated with a low arch, like plantar fasciitis. More specifically, they offer extra support on the shoe's inner sole, called a medial post.
Motion control shoes are for runners with more severe overpronation and are essentially stability shoes taken up a notch. In addition to medial support, they offer a stiff heel, firm cushioning and a more rigid midsole.
Neutral shoes do not contain bonus support features in the midsole. They are typically for "normal" pronators or people with a normal arch. People with high arches can also wear neutral shoes as they don't need bonus motion control and stability features.
Weight
You don't want to feel like your shoes are weighing you down while running. You want your feet to feel as light as a feather and to notice a "spring" in your step.
When your shoes are lighter, you can run for longer periods. This is because you're using less energy to lift your foot off the ground, which protects you from fatigue. Lightweight shoes can also improve your form during exercise. It's all about making your experience as effortless as possible.
To address the need for lightweight running shoes, top brands have mastered the art of using light materials and breathable membranes, without compromising on supportive features.
Flexibility
Flexibility refers to how much you can bend or twist your shoes. A running shoe can have either a stiff midsole or a flexible midsole, and a clear sign of a good running shoe is knowing its level of flexibility.
Flexible shoes are great for longer runs and comfort enhancement, and they will always be neutral and not include stability features. Flexible shoes are also better for terrain running and are more lightweight.
Stiff shoes will feature stability enhancements and are great for motion control and improving your running performance.
Traction
Sometimes when we go for runs we don't always have the luxury of smooth, dry pavement or a treadmill. It may start raining, or you may even enjoy taking your runs to some of Toronto's most beloved trails.
The part of the running shoe responsible for traction is the outsole (bottom of the shoe), which are usually made with rubber. Think of them as similar to a car's tires, protecting you from slips and falls, but also contributing to the smoothness of the "ride."
A running shoe should have a strong grip of the pavement and other terrain types. A lot of winter running shoes are made with enhanced traction via a rigid rubber outsole and durable lugs. The Gel-Cumulus GTX or GT-2000 GTX from ASICS and the Saucony Peregrine ICE are examples of running shoes with the best traction.
Durability
For your running shoes to last a long time, they must be durable. Furthermore, the lifespan of a shoe depends on the sum of its parts and the quality levels of the following:
Upper: The mesh and synthetic overlays must be relatively flexible but maintain a thickness level that extends their lifespan. If the upper of a running shoe is thin, there should be less friction between materials to boost durability.
Midsole: The density of the midsole, as well as its firmness, will determine how durable a shoe is. EVA foam, for example, has a high level of resistance, making it a durable material.
Outsole: A weak outsole will ruin your shoes and running experience as it is the point of contact between you and the ground. Generally, the harder the rubber used for the outsole, the more durable it is.
Waterproof
Like breathability and traction features, a waterproof running shoe is critical for rainy weather, moisture control and winter running.
When you stay dry and comfortable, your feet are also protected from rubbing and abrasion, which can lead to blisters.
You can try running shoes made with GORE-TEX fabric for optimal waterproof protection. This membrane consists of a microporous structure that renders fabrics waterproof. Specifically, the microscopic pores are much smaller than water particles, meaning they cannot penetrate the fabric. Some running shoes made with GORE-TEX fabric include the ASICS GT-2000 GTX and the ASICS Cumulus GTX.
Bonus Features
Here are some extra signs of great running shoes you can look out for:
Reflector accents: These will keep you noticeable and safe while running in the dark.
Removable footbeds: For athletes with consistent foot pain, custom orthotics or Superfeet insoles may be necessary for long runs. You can look for running shoes with footbeds that you can remove and replace with your medical device of choice.
Shoe width: Runners with wide feet should look for shoes with varying width options.
Photo by Philip Ackermann from Pexels
December 5, 2022
Walking is one of the best forms of exercise. Walking is low-impact; it doesn't require fancy or expensive equipment, helps improve blood flow, and can lower blood pressure, amongst other benefits. Fundamentally, walking is how we get around.
Because we rely on this form of movement, we must keep our feet healthy to ensure walking is pain-free. However, the feet are complex, and some foot conditions may make walking painful or uncomfortable. The foot contains more than 25 bones. More broadly, the foot splits into three sections: the toes, the midfoot, and the heel and low ankle. The foot's various bones and muscles need to work in unison. If not, biomechanical abnormalities can cause multiple foot conditions.
This article explores five main reasons why your feet hurt when walking.
Common foot conditions
Plantar fasciitis
If you experience pain in the heel of your foot, it could be plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a band of tissue (called the fascia) that runs along the bottom of the foot. The fascia connects the heel of the foot to your toes. Pain when walking would be felt within the bottom of the foot, specifically the underside of your heel.
Since most people heel strike (I.e., the first body part to touch the ground), much of the impact of walking or running is in the plantar. The band can tear, swell, and inflame when the plantar fascia becomes overloaded or damaged.
Plantar fasciitis develops over time rather than being an acute injury. If recognized early, treatment can be as simple as rest and icing. Early signs and symptoms include a dull pain in the heel of the foot and bottom of the foot pain first thing in the morning.
Metatarsalgia
Pain in the ball of your foot may be metatarsalgia. The ball of your foot lies between your arch and toes. Metatarsalgia is a condition where the ball of the foot becomes inflamed. It is usually a result of overuse or faulty foot mechanics. Inflammation of the bones and soft tissue follows.
Flat feet
You may experience pain in the arch of your foot when walking. A common cause of pain when walking is flat feet. Flat feet are not necessarily a condition but rather a biomechanical abnormality which may cause imbalances in the bones and muscles of your feet. Uneven distribution of weight when walking can put added stress on specific parts of the foot.
A low or collapsed arch characterizes flat feet. Flat foot disrupts the foot's biomechanics by impeding the arch's ability to properly support our body weight and absorb the force of our movement. The load is then displaced onto the toes, ankles, knees, hips and lower back. As a result, pain can develop in these areas and the feet.
Morton's Neuroma
You may suffer from Morton's neuroma if you experience pain in the base of your toes. Morton's neuroma is a foot condition that targets the balls of your feet - most often in the area between your third and fourth toes. The foot condition arises when the toe's tissues thicken and swell, eventually leading to inflammation, pain, and a tingling/numbing sensation. A familiar anecdote for Morton's neuroma is akin to having a pebble in your shoe.
You may experience pain from Morton's neuroma during walking because of your gait. When walking, you typically land on your heel and take off with your toes and forefoot. Thus, if the pain you experience is more on the "up" than the "down" of how you walk, the underlying condition could be Morton's neuroma.
Arthritis
You may experience pain anywhere in your foot as a result of arthritis. Arthritis is a broad term that describes a disease known for inflammation (redness, swelling, and pain) in the body's joints. We can break arthritis more broadly into several specific foot conditions. Types of arthritis that may impact your ability to walk and cause pain include:
Hallux rigidus: Hallux rigidus is arthritis of the big toe. When one suffers from hallux rigidus, the metatarsophalangeal joint (MTP) stiffens. Over time, arthritis can lead to a bone spur.
Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. Consistent wear and tear over time cause the cartilage between the joints in your body to break down.
Rheumatoid arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is an auto-immune disease that causes chronic joint inflammation. It commonly targets the small joints in the feet by attacking the tissue and causing inflammation and calcification. The result is stiff joints, chronic pain, and joint dysfunction.
Foot pain treatment
RICE
RICE stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. This essential combination of treatments is highly effective against several chronic foot conditions. RICE allows for proper rest and promotes recovery by reducing inflammation and promoting blood flow.
Orthotics
Custom orthotics are custom-built corrective shoe inserts designed to support the unique structures of our feet. Orthotics act to correct or accommodate biomechanical abnormalities, foot deformities, and a variety of joint and muscle conditions. Orthotics intend to improve your gait, manage pain, and better disperse your body's weight when walking and running.
Proper footwear
The correct footwear is critical for healthy feet. For instance, proper footwear can provide structure, balance, support, and protection when walking. Ill-fitting shoes are the leading cause of foot pain and problems: according to a study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research in 2018, "Between 63 and 72% of participants were wearing shoes that did not accommodate either width or length dimensions of their feet". A study done amongst older adults in 2020 also found that 90% we wearing shoes with worn-out soles.
Visit us at Feet First Clinic for a shoe fitting session and we can help you find footwear perfect for you.
Visit our chiropodists
Our dedicated licensed chiropodists are committed to providing quality care and services for all your foot and ankle needs. Chiropodists can diagnose, treat and help manage various foot conditions, from callus removal to ingrown toenails to bunions.
