Items filtered by date: March 2023

Various components make for a good pair of running shoes. Some key components are the upper, or all parts, of the shoe above the sole. This should fit the shape of the foot without binding or chafing. The outsole is the sole of the shoe, and it is made of materials that provide durability and traction without being stiff or adding weight to the shoe. The toebox should be roomy enough to keep the toes from hitting the end of the shoe and allow the foot to spread and flex naturally. There are many other important parts of running shoes that should be tended to for the best running comfort and performance. To learn more about the components of running shoes and how to pick the best shoes for your personal needs, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can evaluate your feet and make suitable recommendations.

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact Edward Gonzalez, DPM from Lower Extremity Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our our office located in Miami, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

There are many different reasons why stretching the feet is an important part of one’s daily health routine. Performing stretches on the feet can improve mobility, flexibility, and resilience. This can essentially make the feet better able to manage exercise routines and physical activity. One important stretch that you might consider performing on your feet is known as a foam roller ankle stretch. This stretch can be performed in a seated position with one foot at a time being rested on a half foam roller. One then repeatedly tilts the roller upwards and downwards to feel the stretch in the feet. Perform this stretch on both feet. As a result of performing this stretch, the ankles will experience more movement and flexibility. If you are someone that is looking to strengthen their feet, it is suggested that you reach out to a podiatrist today. Podiatrists are foot specialists who can help answer any questions you might have and provide treatment.

Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Edward Gonzalez, DPM from Lower Extremity Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Miami, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

If you are someone whose employment causes you to stand on your feet for long periods of the workday, you might be putting yourself at an increased risk of developing a foot condition. For example, it is suggested that an individual stands for approximately two to four hours each day. When an individual must stand for too long every single day, they could be putting too much strain on their feet. Employees like hairdressers, cashiers, and factory line workers could all be spending too much of the day standing on their feet. To address this issue, an employee might consider breaking up the workday by taking sitting breaks to ensure that they are not standing for the entire day. If you are a worker that spends a lot of the work day standing, it is highly suggested that you contact a podiatrist today.

While working on the feet, it is important to take the proper care of them. For more information about working on your feet, contact Edward Gonzalez, DPM from Lower Extremity Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Working on Your Feet

Standing on your feet for long periods of time can cause stress and pain in your feet. Your whole body may experience change in terms of posture, back pain, bunions, callouses and or plantar warts. There are ways to avoid these conditions with proper foot care, smart choices and correct posture.

Positive Changes

Negative heeled shoe – Choosing this shoe type places the heel slightly lower than the ball of the foot. These are great for overall foot health. Find shoes that fit you correctly.

Go barefoot – Our feet were not designed to be enclosed for all hours of the day. Try to periodically expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – Performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and doing stretches are beneficial. This will allow increased blood flow to the area and muscles of the foot.

Achilles tendon – Stretching the foot out flat on the floor will relax the calf muscles and tendon. These exercises can be performed almost anywhere. Make sure you add these exercises to your daily regimen. 

With a little bit of this information and knowing more about foot health, you will notice changes. Foot stretches and proper footwear will help with pain and prevent further issues.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Miami, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Although a pregnant woman might not initially think that they should pay attention to the health of their feet during pregnancy, there are many reasons for her to monitor the health of her feet as she carries her baby to term. First, the woman’s feet may increase in size. Second, the pregnant woman could potentially experience changes to her skin. For example, many pregnant women might experience cracked heels, where the skin around the back of the heel becomes significantly dehydrated. It is important to note that if a pregnant woman experiences continuous itching on their feet, it is suggested that they schedule an appointment with a trusted medical professional like a podiatrist. If you are pregnant, you can schedule an appointment with a podiatrist today.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with Edward Gonzalez, DPM from Lower Extremity Care. Our doctor will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Miami, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.