Choosing the right size footwear for running is pivotal in ensuring a comfortable and injury-free experience. Begin by measuring your foot length and width, considering variations between brands and models. Prioritize a thumb's width of space between your longest toe and the shoe's end to accommodate natural foot swelling during running. Verify that the shoe snugly holds the heel without excessive tightness or slipping. Additionally, assess the arch support and overall fit to align with your foot's unique structure. It is important to try on both shoes, as foot sizes can differ slightly. As you test the shoes, simulate running motions to gauge comfort and stability. Remember that the right size is not solely determined by numerical measurements; it is about finding a shoe that feels secure, and supportive, and allows for the natural movement of your feet. If you would like additional information on how to choose the right shoe size, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

• Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
• Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
• Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
• Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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

In the journey of aging, maintaining a steady and balanced gait becomes increasingly vital for overall well-being and independence. Activities like walking and resistance training can enhance overall gait in individuals with arthritis. Nordic walking, with the aid of adjustable-length walking poles, engages the entire body and promotes better posture. This exercise involves the shoulder and arm muscles, as well as helping increase pelvic rotation, step length, and walking speed. It is a good idea to have an aid with you when starting out, ensuring the safe and effective use of walking sticks. Balance is fundamental to a stable gait. Performing balancing exercises while standing still is a safe way to begin. Then gradually introduce more dynamic balance exercises, such as simple tai chi movements or slow dance movements. Canes are particularly useful for those with arthritis or peripheral neuropathy. They offer support and transmit information about the walking surface that helps to avoid falls. Walkers, with their stability and varied designs, address factors like joint pain, balance issues, and walking efficiency. For more information on gait issues, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a gait analysis and recommended treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

Walking is a popular low-impact exercise with numerous health benefits, and ensuring your feet stay happy and healthy is key to maximizing those benefits. Proper form and posture when walking are essential elements to consider to prevent injuries. Maintaining proper posture and alignment is the foundation of a healthy walking routine. Imagine a string pulling you up from the crown of your head, ensuring you stand tall. Keep your head up, eyes forward, and shoulders back, allowing your arms to move freely at your sides. Tighten your abs and align your rib cage with your hips, knees, ankles, and second toe to avoid strain on your lower half. Pay close attention to your feet during each step. Adopt a rolling motion of heel, ball, and toes to distribute stress evenly across the lower body. Avoid slamming your entire foot down, as this can increase the risk of knee, hip, and ankle injuries. Notice your walking cadence and try to find a balance between longer, less frequent steps and shorter, more frequent steps to reduce joint stress. While walking is generally low-risk, staying alert is essential. Watch out for obstacles like curbs, potholes, or uneven terrain, especially in low-light conditions. If you have foot problems that you believe may be an after effect of your walking routine, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from Foot & Ankle Associates of Maine. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctors to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

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