With a normal footstep, the heel hits the ground first, followed by a rolling motion of the foot towards the forefoot and toes. Finally, the footstep is completed by pushing off of the ball area of the foot. During the motion of a normal footstep, the arch absorbs shock as it slightly flattens when the […]
Women’s Shoes
According to the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society, women are nine times more likely than men to develop a foot problem due to ill-fitting shoes, and 90% of women say they wear shoes in too small of a size. As a result, 90% of females experience foot deformities because of wearing shoes that are […]
Wear Patterns
The wear patterns on your worn shoes can be helpful when shopping for new a new pair. Wear patterns can provide information on the fit and sizing of the shoe, your gait, and possible foot and ankle problems and deformities that are impacting the way you walk. Here are some wear patterns to look for, […]
Shoe Anatomy
Familiarizing yourself with the parts of a shoe is helpful when choosing footwear that accommodates your foot shape and size, as well as your activities. Here are the basic parts of a shoe: Counter: The counter is the stiff part of the heel area of the shoe that strengthens the back part of the shoe; […]
Men’s Shoes
Unlike women’s shoes, the majority of men’s shoe styles conform with the guidelines for a properly fitting shoe. That is, they accommodate the natural shape of the foot, offer plenty of room in the toe as well as across the forefoot, and have an appropriate heel height of no more than a half-inch. Although the […]
High Heels
Although high heels are a popular staple in many women’s wardrobes as a way to add style, glamour, and even height, high-heeled shoes can lead to a slew of foot, knee, and back problems, such as shortened calf muscles and toe deformities. They can also cause women to alter the way they walk, making them […]
Children’s Shoes
Appropriate footwear for children changes with each phase of childhood. Wearing the proper footwear is critical for correct development of the foot structure, as well as the body’s overall posture. During infancy, shoes are not necessary, even for beginning walkers, as the main function of shoes is to protect the feet from injuries. In fact, […]
Buying Shoes and Getting a Proper Fit
Wearing uncomfortable, ill-fitting, or lesser-quality footwear can lead to a host of foot and ankle problems, as well as foot injuries and even foot deformities over time. Use this checklist to make sure you choose the best shoe to head off foot issues before they start: Footwear should have a comfortable, durable design, be made […]
Athletic Footwear Guidelines
The type of athletic shoe you wear depends on the movements involved in the sport or activity you will be doing. Wearing the proper athletic shoe provides the support, shock absorption, traction, and protection necessary to keep the foot working properly and free from injury and stress. For running, sneakers need to be light, flexible, […]
Proper Footwear for Diabetics
Since diabetics are prone to foot deformities and infections, it is imperative for diabetics to wear proper footwear, even when first diagnosed with the disease. Diabetics can suffer from peripheral artery disease (lack of circulation) and peripheral neuropathy (loss of feeling); as a result, the feet may become susceptible to a slew of problems: ulcers […]
