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pedal

November 2024

Tuesday, 12 November 2024 00:00

Tips for Choosing Running Shoes as a Beginner

For beginners, selecting the right running shoes is essential for comfort and injury prevention. First, consider the type of running you plan to do, whether it is road running, trail running, or casual jogging. Each type requires specific features tailored to different terrains. Stability features are important for those who overpronate, as they help maintain proper alignment and support the foot's arch. Look for shoes with cushioning to absorb impact and provide comfort during longer runs. Motion control features are beneficial for individuals with flat feet or severe overpronation, offering extra support to prevent excessive rolling inward. Trying on multiple pairs and considering foot shape and size is vital for finding the perfect fit. If you have injured your foot or ankle while running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on how to choose the right running shoe.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact Dr. Robert Hope from Riverside Podiatry. 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

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

  • Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
  • Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
  • Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

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

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Tuesday, 05 November 2024 00:00

Causes of a Turned Pinky Toe

A pinky toe that is turned sideways can result from various factors, each contributing to its misalignment. Obesity often places excess pressure on the feet, leading to deformities as the body compensates for the added weight. Arthritis is another significant factor, causing joint inflammation and stiffness that can alter the toe's position over time. Genetics also plays a vital role, as inherited traits can predispose individuals to structural foot issues, including curved toes. Trauma, such as fractures or sprains, can further disrupt the natural alignment of the pinky toe, leading to lasting changes. There are different types of curved pinky toes, including those that point inward or overlap with adjacent toes. If your pinky toe is turned and is causing discomfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer you effective relief options.

Toe pain can disrupt your daily activities. If you have any concerns, contact Dr. Robert Hope of Riverside Podiatry. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Causes Toe Pain?

Most severe toe pain is caused due to a sports injury, trauma from dropping something heavy on the toe, or bumping into something rigid. Other problems can develop over time for various reasons.

Toe pain can be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Trauma
  • Sports injury
  • Wearing shoes that are too tight
  • Arthritis
  • Gout
  • Corns and calluses
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Blisters
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Sprains
  • Fractures (broken bones)
  • Dislocations

When to See a Podiatrist

  • Severe pain
  • Persistent pain that lasts more than a week
  • Signs of infection
  • Continued swelling
  • Pain that prevents walking

Diagnosis

In many cases the cause of toe pain is obvious, but in others, a podiatrist may want to use more advanced methods to determine the problem. These can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatments for toe pain and injuries vary and may include shoe inserts, padding, taping, medicines, injections, and in some cases, surgery. If you believe that you have broken a toe, please see a podiatrist as soon as possible.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Tuscaloosa, and Fayette, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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