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What are the best shoes to wear after a calcaneal fracture?

A calcaneal fracture typically comes from a high-impact situation or activity, such as a car crash. This fracture is potentially disabling, and often causes persistent pain in the heel. Like most bone fractures, it can take a long time to heal. This is why your doctor may recommend custom orthotics to help with the pain as the fracture heals. If you suffer from heel pain, you aren’t alone. Of all the foot-related ailments reported by Americans, heel pain is by far the most common. Unsure whether your heel pain is caused by a fracture? Here are some of the most common symptoms. Symptoms of a calcaneal fracture Bruising — The skin on the heel may change color. Sensitivity in a...

Feb 13, 2023

Hard or soft orthotics for plantar fasciitis: Which is better?

Plantar fasciitis is a common foot condition that causes pain and inflammation in the band of tissue along the sole of your foot. If you have plantar fasciitis, you may experience stabbing pain and discomfort when you walk, stand, and even when you're resting. If you're suffering from plantar fasciitis, you might be wondering about different kinds of treatments like orthotics. Orthotics are inserts that fit inside your shoes to provide support to different parts of your feet. How can orthotics help with plantar fasciitis? Reduced pain — One study found a 62% improvement in people who had used orthotics for a year, compared to only 48% with an alternative method. Higher quality of life — Orthotics can lessen the...

Feb 01, 2023

3 reasons why your ankles hurt when you run that custom orthotics can address

Your ankle is a powerhouse, capable of handling up to 13 times your body weight while running. But so much force over a long period of time can stress any and all of its 26 individual bones.  If your ankle hurts when you run, it may be because your body is telling you that you are overusing your joint and need to better protect it. Custom orthotics can help prioritize your ankle health, especially if you’re a dedicated runner.  3 reasons why your ankles hurt when you run  While you want to constantly improve your performance as a runner, it can be difficult when ankle pain is setting you back. The following reasons may be connected to why your ankle...

Jan 16, 2023

What is a stone bruise and how can custom orthotics help it?

While the term “stone bruise” may sound puzzling, it simply refers to pain at the ball or bottom of your foot. If you have a stone bruise, you may feel like you are stepping on a stone or pebble with every step forward. In general, stone bruise pain can feel sharp while walking or dull and achy while off your feet.  You may have noticed that your symptoms started after you stepped on a hard object. Or your symptoms may have started after you finished a long period of high-impact activity, like running on rocky terrain.  If you feel that you constantly have a stone at the bottom of your shoe, it may indicate that you injured a tendon, ligament...

Jan 09, 2023

3 benefits custom orthotics can have for Grierson-Gopalan syndrome

Have you ever felt that your feet were burning, despite being indoors or off your feet? Having a burning sensation in the soles of your feet is a hallmark symptom of Grierson-Gopalan syndrome, or burning feet syndrome. Sometimes, the burning pain can feel like it’s traveling up your ankles and lower legs. Other symptoms of Grierson-Gopalan syndrome can include feelings of: Heaviness. Numbness. Dull aches. Pins and needles. Pain that worsens at night and improves during the day.  If you are older, you may have a higher risk of developing Grierson-Gopalan syndrome. It can also be caused by a variety of injuries and conditions, including:  Peripheral neuropathy or nerve damage.  Nerve compression.  Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis).  Poor diet.  Footwear that...

Jan 02, 2023

How metatarsalgia insoles can reduce foot pain

Metatarsalgia is a common overuse injury in which the ball of the foot becomes inflamed. Excessive running and jumping, or the wearing of tight shoes, can irritate the tendons, ligaments, or nerves around the metatarsal bones, which make up the ball of the foot. When the area around the metatarsals are aggravated, pain from metatarsalgia can occur. Symptoms of metatarsalgia can include:  Pain or tingling in your toes. A sharp or burning pain at the ball of the foot. Pain that worsens when moving the foot. A feeling of having a pebble in your shoe. How can insoles relieve metatarsalgia pain?  Orthotic insoles can help relieve pressure and encourage the foot into proper alignment during daily activities. In the event...

Dec 12, 2022

3 common causes of Baxter's nerve entrapment (plus how to treat it)

Just like how carpal tunnel syndrome occurs due to the compression of a nerve in the hand, Baxter’s nerve entrapment syndrome occurs due to a compressed nerve in the foot. This nerve is called the inferior calcaneal nerve, and its compression is more common than you might think. In fact, it can account for up to 20% of all reported heel pain.  What causes Baxter’s nerve entrapment? Baxter’s nerve entrapment can lead to extreme heel pain that limits mobility. It can occur due to conditions like: Plantar fasciitis — Plantar fasciitis refers to the inflammation of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. It can be a symptom of Baxter’s nerve entrapment. However, both Baxter’s nerve entrapment and...

Dec 05, 2022

3 Crocs alternatives that could be better for your feet

Crocs shoes are known for their cushioned feel and arch support. Millions of people have purchased these foam sandals with comfort in mind. However, while Crocs may be comfortable while walking around the house, they may not provide enough support for day-to-day use.  Crocs are open at the heel — with an option to use a built-in loose strap. Because of the shoe’s flimsy structure, the heel can become unstable while walking. When shoes don’t properly fasten and support the heel, the toes tend to tightly grip to the shoe. This can lead to conditions like tendinitis, toe deformities, nail problems and more. As a result, many podiatrists say that there may be better alternatives to Crocs when it comes...

Dec 01, 2022

Why does my back hurt after running (and how do I fix it)?

A study showed that 1 in 10 athletes, including runners, suffer from low back pain at least once in their career. Your back contains a complicated network of muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves. When you overwork parts of your body, like joints in your legs and feet while running, your back can become inflamed. Knowing the possible reasons why your back may hurt after running can help you find the best ways to stop it from happening. Why does your back hurt after running? Your back supports your spine, maintains motor control and provides balance. These functions can be extremely important to both your overall health and your success as a runner. When your back hurts after running, it can...

Nov 14, 2022
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