Orthofeet footwear offers unique depth shoes that combine unsurpassed comfort with attractive design. The shoes are designed by biomechanical engineers, who have been develping innovative footcare products for over twenty years. Their complete dedication to comfort, performance, and styling has resulted in a footwear line that offers an extraordinary wearing experience.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Orthofeet Shoes
Orthofeet footwear offers unique depth shoes that combine unsurpassed comfort with attractive design. The shoes are designed by biomechanical engineers, who have been develping innovative footcare products for over twenty years. Their complete dedication to comfort, performance, and styling has resulted in a footwear line that offers an extraordinary wearing experience.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
A Bit About New Balance...
New Balance began as a Boston-based arch support company in the early 1900's, developed into a specialized shoe manufacturer in the 1970's, and has grown to become a leading global athletic products company.
To ensure the best fitting, best performing shoes and apparel, New Balance focuses on improving their technology and production methods. A big part of that is maintaining five manufacturing facilities here in the United States where they continue to produce shoes and apparel that meet the standards they have employed for more than 100 years. New Balance has also remained committed to a core set of values that include integrity, teamwork and total customer satisfaction.
At New Balance, the company adheres to a unique set of philosophies. They focus on function over fashion; make shoes in multiple widths; continue to make many shoes in the US; nurture strong retail partnerships; and support grassroots initiatives.
To ensure the best fitting, best performing shoes and apparel, New Balance focuses on improving their technology and production methods. A big part of that is maintaining five manufacturing facilities here in the United States where they continue to produce shoes and apparel that meet the standards they have employed for more than 100 years. New Balance has also remained committed to a core set of values that include integrity, teamwork and total customer satisfaction.
At New Balance, the company adheres to a unique set of philosophies. They focus on function over fashion; make shoes in multiple widths; continue to make many shoes in the US; nurture strong retail partnerships; and support grassroots initiatives.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Here Comes the Sun!
As warmer weather approaches and families begin to spend more time outside, it is important to understand the importance of proper care of our feet - especially as we become more active with various recreational activities. With this in mind, we ask that you educate yourself and your family about the correct way to ensure that everyone will have minimal problems, if any at all, as the outdoor season continues this year.
Dr. Vail has provided you and your family with a wealth of resources to aid you in proper foot care - website, blogs, on-line store. Updates are continuously made to ensure that you and your family receive the latest and current podiatric information.
And as always, contact the office to make an appointment with Dr. Vail to ensure you are giving your feet and ankles the best care possible!
The Advanced Footcare Clinic
1725 Western Ave., Suite C
Findlay, OH 45840
419-423-1888
www.vailfoot.com
Dr. Vail has provided you and your family with a wealth of resources to aid you in proper foot care - website, blogs, on-line store. Updates are continuously made to ensure that you and your family receive the latest and current podiatric information.
And as always, contact the office to make an appointment with Dr. Vail to ensure you are giving your feet and ankles the best care possible!
The Advanced Footcare Clinic
1725 Western Ave., Suite C
Findlay, OH 45840
419-423-1888
www.vailfoot.com
Friday, March 20, 2009
Keep on Running!
PODIATRY TODAY - Conclusion
March 2009
Study Examines Shoelace Patterns On Running Shoes
By Brian McCurdy, Senior Editor
When Tight Lacing Is Problematic
Podiatrists see more frequent injuries from shoes laced too tightly than from loose laces. They say injuries arising from too tight laces commonly include tendinopathy in the extensor tendons and in the anterior tibial tendon. Since there is little intrinsic protective tissue over the dorsum, podiatrists note that shoelaces can impinge and injure tendons that are actively working during the contact phase of gait.
“These injuries, once they occur, are extremely difficult to resolve. I would much rather advocate a comfortable, medium tension lace adjustment rather than a tight lace for most athletes,” says an Adjunct Associate Professor in the Department of Applied Biomechanics at the California School of Podiatric Medicine at Samuel Merritt College.
He notes that if the quarter of the shoe is too high, the ALL7 lacing pattern can cause irritation on the ankle bones (fibular more than tibial) “because it snugs up the topline of the shoe opening.”
Another podiatrist says there are several variables (including foot structure and bony prominences) that one should consider. He says runners might skip a pair of eyelets if they have bony prominences. This same doctor also points out that it can be impractical in some situations to lace a shoe tightly due to spurs or a high instep as this could cause dorsal nerve compression.
Podiatrists can offer different lacing patterns for various types of patients. In addition to high instep, runners with a wide foot, narrow foot, pronated foot or supinated foot may require different lacing techniques. For example, podiatrists can employ a forefoot lacing pattern for patients with recurrent great toe problems to lessen excessive pressure that will help to prevent subungual hematomas.
Be sure to explore Dr. Vail's website for more information about proper care of your feet.
March 2009
Study Examines Shoelace Patterns On Running Shoes
By Brian McCurdy, Senior Editor
When Tight Lacing Is Problematic
Podiatrists see more frequent injuries from shoes laced too tightly than from loose laces. They say injuries arising from too tight laces commonly include tendinopathy in the extensor tendons and in the anterior tibial tendon. Since there is little intrinsic protective tissue over the dorsum, podiatrists note that shoelaces can impinge and injure tendons that are actively working during the contact phase of gait.
“These injuries, once they occur, are extremely difficult to resolve. I would much rather advocate a comfortable, medium tension lace adjustment rather than a tight lace for most athletes,” says an Adjunct Associate Professor in the Department of Applied Biomechanics at the California School of Podiatric Medicine at Samuel Merritt College.
He notes that if the quarter of the shoe is too high, the ALL7 lacing pattern can cause irritation on the ankle bones (fibular more than tibial) “because it snugs up the topline of the shoe opening.”
Another podiatrist says there are several variables (including foot structure and bony prominences) that one should consider. He says runners might skip a pair of eyelets if they have bony prominences. This same doctor also points out that it can be impractical in some situations to lace a shoe tightly due to spurs or a high instep as this could cause dorsal nerve compression.
Podiatrists can offer different lacing patterns for various types of patients. In addition to high instep, runners with a wide foot, narrow foot, pronated foot or supinated foot may require different lacing techniques. For example, podiatrists can employ a forefoot lacing pattern for patients with recurrent great toe problems to lessen excessive pressure that will help to prevent subungual hematomas.
Be sure to explore Dr. Vail's website for more information about proper care of your feet.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Time for a Jog, Anyone?
PODIATRY TODAY
March 2009
Study Examines Shoelace Patterns On Running Shoes
By Brian McCurdy, Senior Editor
Before hitting the track, runners must take various factors into account to streamline their performance. A recent study in the Journal of Sports Medicine explores how different shoelace patterns can affect the biomechanics of runners.
According to the study, researchers evaluated 20 experienced runners and the influence of shoelace tightness and the number of laced eyelets upon foot pronation during contact, tibial acceleration and plantar pressure distribution.
Researchers found that running shoes with the tightest and highest lacing conditions exhibited reduced loading rates and pronation velocities. The seven-eyelet lacing pattern facilitated the lowest peak pressures under the heel and lateral midfoot, according to the study authors. Researchers concluded that a firm foot-to-shoe coupling with higher lacing facilitates a more effective use of running shoes, and may reduce the risk of lower limb injury.
The study’s conclusion is logical as the tighter the shoelaces are, the more support the runner has and the better the foot will stay in place.
“Lacing can be subjective as can the fit of shoes but the bottom line is that the shoe needs to be tied tight. Now there is data to support that,” says a podiatrist, who is in private practice in the USA.
Another podiatrist agrees that a tightly laced shoe seems to enhance performance. He attributes this to either the enhanced “coupling” of the foot to the shoe as the researchers suggest or an enhanced proprioceptive mechanism that gives the athlete a better “feel” for the sport surface.
Podiatrists usually recommend that athletes use all seven laces, which ensures good coupling of the foot and shoe. When athletes combine this lacing with a textured insole and an appropriate shoe for their specific foot type, it can be helpful in preventing injuries.
To be continued...
Be sure to explore Dr. Vail's website for more information about proper care of your feet.
March 2009
Study Examines Shoelace Patterns On Running Shoes
By Brian McCurdy, Senior Editor
Before hitting the track, runners must take various factors into account to streamline their performance. A recent study in the Journal of Sports Medicine explores how different shoelace patterns can affect the biomechanics of runners.
According to the study, researchers evaluated 20 experienced runners and the influence of shoelace tightness and the number of laced eyelets upon foot pronation during contact, tibial acceleration and plantar pressure distribution.
Researchers found that running shoes with the tightest and highest lacing conditions exhibited reduced loading rates and pronation velocities. The seven-eyelet lacing pattern facilitated the lowest peak pressures under the heel and lateral midfoot, according to the study authors. Researchers concluded that a firm foot-to-shoe coupling with higher lacing facilitates a more effective use of running shoes, and may reduce the risk of lower limb injury.
The study’s conclusion is logical as the tighter the shoelaces are, the more support the runner has and the better the foot will stay in place.
“Lacing can be subjective as can the fit of shoes but the bottom line is that the shoe needs to be tied tight. Now there is data to support that,” says a podiatrist, who is in private practice in the USA.
Another podiatrist agrees that a tightly laced shoe seems to enhance performance. He attributes this to either the enhanced “coupling” of the foot to the shoe as the researchers suggest or an enhanced proprioceptive mechanism that gives the athlete a better “feel” for the sport surface.
Podiatrists usually recommend that athletes use all seven laces, which ensures good coupling of the foot and shoe. When athletes combine this lacing with a textured insole and an appropriate shoe for their specific foot type, it can be helpful in preventing injuries.
To be continued...
Be sure to explore Dr. Vail's website for more information about proper care of your feet.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Spring Has Sprung!?!?
As spring approaches (March 20, 2009, 7:44AM) here is an interesting article to get you thinking about putting that "spring back in your step" as you head outdoors...and tackle the yardwork!
This is the first part of the artical, "Spring has Sprung," by Mel Cheskin, MBS, C.Ped, from Current Pedorthics magazine, January/February 2008. For further reading you can continue the artical at: http://www.pedorthics.org/portals/0/JanFeb2008.pdf
While Einstein was busy extolling the credibility of
his Theory of Relativity another European inventor
was exploring the first recorded use of springs
in footwear. This is not really surprising, as springs became a
necessity in the production of the famed precision Swiss time
pieces and firearms from the 14th century onward. Mechanix
Illustrated magazine featured spring-heeled shoes in a 1939
edition, claiming to be the latest aid for “prolonging shoe
life and eliminating all jars to the various organs of the body
experienced by wearers of ordinary shoes.”
The shoes shown in 1939 were coil springs attached to a
rubber heel plate invented by a Swiss shoemaker. But there
have been several other spring formations placed in shoes
leading up to today’s latest entries into the marketplace.
A spring is a flexible elastic object used to store mechanical
energy, not all of which adhere to Hooke’s law: “The force
with which the spring pushes back is linearly proportional
to the distance from its equilibrium length.” Springs come in
numerous shapes and configurations:
• from helical (coil) to tension;
• leaf to catapult; compression (volute) to V;
• spiral to cantilever;
• Belleville to torsion;
• air to wave; and
• gas to rubber band
Materials can vary greatly too. Although one usually
associates springs with their metal forms just about any
material that stores potential energy can act as some form of
spring. Consider Nike’s compressed “Air” bag as a point in
question. Undoubtedly, the most successful shoe feature in
the history of footwear, Nike’s adoption of the Frank Rudy
innovative air bag patent in 1978 is, according to definition, a
form of compression spring.
More recently there has been a renewed interest in the
insertion of springs of all types into modern day footwear –
both for casual and performance uses. Why then, such an
interest in adding springs to footwear when so many other
materials offer better shock absorption?
The answer is in the other reaction to a soft cushioned
landing for the feet and body: namely, energy return. New
Balance had a great advertisement for its running shoes years
ago illustrating this point. The ads showed a runner wearing
two pillows strapped to his feet. The accompanying copy
stated, “What could be more comfortable than this?”
Without an adequate return or rebound of energy, once the
shoe has reached maximum compression, the shoe would
only aid the foot when landing. Springs are the most efficient
form of stored energy return. Of course, the balance between
shock absorption and energy return determines the ultimate
success of the mechanism placed in the shoe.
Let’s look at the latest spring-enhanced footwear offerings and
how their manufacturers are positioning them:
For the best care for your feet, please consult with Dr. Vail as to the most appropriate shoe to wear. For more information surf to www.vailfoot.com!
This is the first part of the artical, "Spring has Sprung," by Mel Cheskin, MBS, C.Ped, from Current Pedorthics magazine, January/February 2008. For further reading you can continue the artical at: http://www.pedorthics.org/portals/0/JanFeb2008.pdf
While Einstein was busy extolling the credibility of
his Theory of Relativity another European inventor
was exploring the first recorded use of springs
in footwear. This is not really surprising, as springs became a
necessity in the production of the famed precision Swiss time
pieces and firearms from the 14th century onward. Mechanix
Illustrated magazine featured spring-heeled shoes in a 1939
edition, claiming to be the latest aid for “prolonging shoe
life and eliminating all jars to the various organs of the body
experienced by wearers of ordinary shoes.”
The shoes shown in 1939 were coil springs attached to a
rubber heel plate invented by a Swiss shoemaker. But there
have been several other spring formations placed in shoes
leading up to today’s latest entries into the marketplace.
A spring is a flexible elastic object used to store mechanical
energy, not all of which adhere to Hooke’s law: “The force
with which the spring pushes back is linearly proportional
to the distance from its equilibrium length.” Springs come in
numerous shapes and configurations:
• from helical (coil) to tension;
• leaf to catapult; compression (volute) to V;
• spiral to cantilever;
• Belleville to torsion;
• air to wave; and
• gas to rubber band
Materials can vary greatly too. Although one usually
associates springs with their metal forms just about any
material that stores potential energy can act as some form of
spring. Consider Nike’s compressed “Air” bag as a point in
question. Undoubtedly, the most successful shoe feature in
the history of footwear, Nike’s adoption of the Frank Rudy
innovative air bag patent in 1978 is, according to definition, a
form of compression spring.
More recently there has been a renewed interest in the
insertion of springs of all types into modern day footwear –
both for casual and performance uses. Why then, such an
interest in adding springs to footwear when so many other
materials offer better shock absorption?
The answer is in the other reaction to a soft cushioned
landing for the feet and body: namely, energy return. New
Balance had a great advertisement for its running shoes years
ago illustrating this point. The ads showed a runner wearing
two pillows strapped to his feet. The accompanying copy
stated, “What could be more comfortable than this?”
Without an adequate return or rebound of energy, once the
shoe has reached maximum compression, the shoe would
only aid the foot when landing. Springs are the most efficient
form of stored energy return. Of course, the balance between
shock absorption and energy return determines the ultimate
success of the mechanism placed in the shoe.
Let’s look at the latest spring-enhanced footwear offerings and
how their manufacturers are positioning them:
For the best care for your feet, please consult with Dr. Vail as to the most appropriate shoe to wear. For more information surf to www.vailfoot.com!
Monday, March 16, 2009
UPDATED WEBSITE
In case you have accessed this Blog via an internet search, please check out Dr. Vail's new and improved website for ALL your foot care needs!!!
www.vailfoot.com
www.vailfoot.com
Athlete's Foot
Athlete's Foot is a chronic infection caused by various types of fungus. It is often spread in places where people go barefoot such as public showers or swimming pools. The condition ranges from mild scaling and itching to painful inflammation and blisters. It usually starts between the toes or on the arch and may spread to the bottom and sides of the foot.
Depending on the type of infection you have, various kinds of medication may be used in treating your fungal problem. Successful treatment usually involves a combination of medication and self-care. If your condition is not serious, over-the-counter and prescription powders, lotions, or ointments can often help treat scaling, itching, and inflammation. Consult us before taking any medication. Foot soaks may help dry excessive perspiration, but you should contact our office first. If your Athlete's foot does not improve, we may prescribe stronger medication.
Visit www.vailfoot.com for more information!
Depending on the type of infection you have, various kinds of medication may be used in treating your fungal problem. Successful treatment usually involves a combination of medication and self-care. If your condition is not serious, over-the-counter and prescription powders, lotions, or ointments can often help treat scaling, itching, and inflammation. Consult us before taking any medication. Foot soaks may help dry excessive perspiration, but you should contact our office first. If your Athlete's foot does not improve, we may prescribe stronger medication.
Visit www.vailfoot.com for more information!
Friday, March 13, 2009
Walking and Shoes
Walking Footwear: Comfort and Fit
Choose a good quality, lightweight walking shoe with breathable upper materials, such as leather or nylon mesh. The heel counter should be very firm; the heel should have reduced cushioning to position the heel closer to the ground for walking stability. The front or forefoot area of the shoe should have adequate support and flexibility.
Fit is very important. Have both shoes fitted for length and width with the socks you'll be using. (Do this late in the afternoon, since your feet do swell enough during the day to affect your shoe size.) Make sure the shoe is snug but not too tight over the sock. The shoe should have plenty of room for the toes to move around.
Your choice of athletic socks is also important. Sports podiatrists frequently recommend appropriately padded socks of acrylic fiber. Acrylic fibers tend to "wick" away excessive perspiration, which active feet can produce from 250,000 sweat glands at a rate of four to six ounces a day, or even more.
Please contact Dr. Vail's office for further assistance with your footcare needs!
www.vailfoot.com
(Information gathered from the American Podiatric Medical Association website, www.apma.org)
Choose a good quality, lightweight walking shoe with breathable upper materials, such as leather or nylon mesh. The heel counter should be very firm; the heel should have reduced cushioning to position the heel closer to the ground for walking stability. The front or forefoot area of the shoe should have adequate support and flexibility.
Fit is very important. Have both shoes fitted for length and width with the socks you'll be using. (Do this late in the afternoon, since your feet do swell enough during the day to affect your shoe size.) Make sure the shoe is snug but not too tight over the sock. The shoe should have plenty of room for the toes to move around.
Your choice of athletic socks is also important. Sports podiatrists frequently recommend appropriately padded socks of acrylic fiber. Acrylic fibers tend to "wick" away excessive perspiration, which active feet can produce from 250,000 sweat glands at a rate of four to six ounces a day, or even more.
Please contact Dr. Vail's office for further assistance with your footcare needs!
www.vailfoot.com
(Information gathered from the American Podiatric Medical Association website, www.apma.org)
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Summer is Coming, But Be Informed...
Flip-Flop Fallacies
Dr. Michael Loshigian Explains Why You Shouldn't Wear Flip-Flops All The Time
July 3, 2007 by Daniel Aven
(CBS) Shorts, short-sleeve shirts and flip-flops. These all are part of a typical summer outfit for both men and women. However, a foot care expert says that you might want to reconsider your summer footwear.
Dr. Michael Loshigian, a podiatrist and foot surgeon at New York's Mount Sinai Hospital and spokesperson for the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (www.footphysicians.com), discussed the dangers of flip-flops on The Early Show.
Flip-flops are meant for short walks to and from the beach, not for everyday use. A thin bit of foam rubber that separates your feet from hot sand, sidewalk or pavement isn't meant to be your everyday footwear.
Statistics prove that the lack of arch support from these sandals increases the likelihood of a foot injury.
"The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons has an increase in reported injuries every spring and summer directly related to wearing (flip-flops) too much," Loshigian said. "So people develop strain in their heel and their arch. Ankle injuries, ankle sprains and ankle fractures are actually becoming more common."
The thong that goes between your toes can also be a problem. Loshigian said, "In people, especially those who have sensitive skin or circulatory conditions and conditions such as diabetes that make their feet more prone to injuries and infections, this can be a point of irritation that can lead to infection."
While using a skeletal foot, Loshigian was able to clearly show the weak support that a flip-flop gives. "The standard beach flip-flop is very flat and really supports the arch very little," Loshigian said. "This is part of the reason that these sandals are really not good for long-term wear."
There are safer alternatives for those in need of comfortable summer footwear. As examples, he displayed a pair of sturdy sandals and the popular Crocs.
When choosing a safer sandals, Loshigian said you should look for a good tread pattern on the bottom of the shoe. The inside of the sandal should be molded to fit the arch and cup the heel. Having a strap around the back of the heel adds additional support.
Information gathered from: http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/07/03/earlyshow/health/main3011683.shtml
Dr. Michael Loshigian Explains Why You Shouldn't Wear Flip-Flops All The Time
July 3, 2007 by Daniel Aven
(CBS) Shorts, short-sleeve shirts and flip-flops. These all are part of a typical summer outfit for both men and women. However, a foot care expert says that you might want to reconsider your summer footwear.
Dr. Michael Loshigian, a podiatrist and foot surgeon at New York's Mount Sinai Hospital and spokesperson for the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (www.footphysicians.com), discussed the dangers of flip-flops on The Early Show.
Flip-flops are meant for short walks to and from the beach, not for everyday use. A thin bit of foam rubber that separates your feet from hot sand, sidewalk or pavement isn't meant to be your everyday footwear.
Statistics prove that the lack of arch support from these sandals increases the likelihood of a foot injury.
"The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons has an increase in reported injuries every spring and summer directly related to wearing (flip-flops) too much," Loshigian said. "So people develop strain in their heel and their arch. Ankle injuries, ankle sprains and ankle fractures are actually becoming more common."
The thong that goes between your toes can also be a problem. Loshigian said, "In people, especially those who have sensitive skin or circulatory conditions and conditions such as diabetes that make their feet more prone to injuries and infections, this can be a point of irritation that can lead to infection."
While using a skeletal foot, Loshigian was able to clearly show the weak support that a flip-flop gives. "The standard beach flip-flop is very flat and really supports the arch very little," Loshigian said. "This is part of the reason that these sandals are really not good for long-term wear."
There are safer alternatives for those in need of comfortable summer footwear. As examples, he displayed a pair of sturdy sandals and the popular Crocs.
When choosing a safer sandals, Loshigian said you should look for a good tread pattern on the bottom of the shoe. The inside of the sandal should be molded to fit the arch and cup the heel. Having a strap around the back of the heel adds additional support.
Please contact Dr. Vail's office to receive additional assistance with your foot care needs.
www.vailfoot.com
Information gathered from: http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/07/03/earlyshow/health/main3011683.shtml
Monday, March 9, 2009
Keep Your Feet Protected!
Whatever the risk to which your feet may be exposed, the shoe industry can supply you with suitable protective footwear. Hard hats may be the symbol for safety on the construction site but remember that accidents can happen at any time. Protective footwear runs the gamut, depending on need:
• abrasion resistant upper materials for mountaineering
rescue crews;
• non-slip soling for fishermen;
• Nomex® fire-retardant materials for fire fighters;
• electrostatic dissipative soling in clean rooms;
• land-mine blast protection for soldiers; or
• even reflective safety trim for night runners.
Today’s consumers need to select the appropriate form of protection that fits their work or play activities to prevent their feet from being crushed, fractured, pierced or burned.
Information gathered from the January/February 2008 edition of the Current Pedorthics Magazine, offered by The Pedorthic Footwear Association:
http://www.pedorthics.org/portals/0/JanFeb2008.pdf
• abrasion resistant upper materials for mountaineering
rescue crews;
• non-slip soling for fishermen;
• Nomex® fire-retardant materials for fire fighters;
• electrostatic dissipative soling in clean rooms;
• land-mine blast protection for soldiers; or
• even reflective safety trim for night runners.
Today’s consumers need to select the appropriate form of protection that fits their work or play activities to prevent their feet from being crushed, fractured, pierced or burned.
Please contact Dr. Vail's office to receive additional assistance with your foot care needs.
www.vailfoot.com
Information gathered from the January/February 2008 edition of the Current Pedorthics Magazine, offered by The Pedorthic Footwear Association:
http://www.pedorthics.org/portals/0/JanFeb2008.pdf
Thursday, March 5, 2009
All the More Reason to Get the Right Shoe!
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails often are the result of trimming your toenails too short, particularly on the sides of your big toes. While they are common, ingrown toenails can be painful. When trimming your nails, avoid tapering the corners so that the nail curves with the shape of your toe. The sides of the nail will curl down and dig into your skin. Shoes that are too tight or short also may cause ingrown toenails. Ingrown toenail start out hard, swollen and tender, and later, may become sore, red and infected. Your skin may start to grow over the ingrown toenail. Soaking your foot in warm, soapy water several times each day is usually a good way to treat an ingrown nail. Also, you can try inserting some cotton or waxed dental floss between the nail and your skin. Please contact our office to determine the best course of treatment for your condition. Antibiotics are sometimes prescribed if an infection is present. Part of your ingrown toenail (partial nail plate avulsion) may need to be surgically removed if an acute infection occurs. The procedure involves injecting the toe with an anesthetic and cutting out the ingrown part of the toenail.
You can prevent ingrown toenails by:
Trimming your toenails straight across with no rounded corners.
Ensuring that your shoes and socks are not too tight.
Keeping your feet clean at all times.
Check out our On-Line Store for a multitude of products for your foot care needs! http://www.ourdoctorstore.com/vail/
(Information collected from Dr. Vail's website, www.vailfoot.com)
Ingrown toenails often are the result of trimming your toenails too short, particularly on the sides of your big toes. While they are common, ingrown toenails can be painful. When trimming your nails, avoid tapering the corners so that the nail curves with the shape of your toe. The sides of the nail will curl down and dig into your skin. Shoes that are too tight or short also may cause ingrown toenails. Ingrown toenail start out hard, swollen and tender, and later, may become sore, red and infected. Your skin may start to grow over the ingrown toenail. Soaking your foot in warm, soapy water several times each day is usually a good way to treat an ingrown nail. Also, you can try inserting some cotton or waxed dental floss between the nail and your skin. Please contact our office to determine the best course of treatment for your condition. Antibiotics are sometimes prescribed if an infection is present. Part of your ingrown toenail (partial nail plate avulsion) may need to be surgically removed if an acute infection occurs. The procedure involves injecting the toe with an anesthetic and cutting out the ingrown part of the toenail.
You can prevent ingrown toenails by:
Trimming your toenails straight across with no rounded corners.
Ensuring that your shoes and socks are not too tight.
Keeping your feet clean at all times.
Check out our On-Line Store for a multitude of products for your foot care needs! http://www.ourdoctorstore.com/vail/
(Information collected from Dr. Vail's website, www.vailfoot.com)
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
What is a Heel Spur
Heel spurs are growths of bone on the underside, forepart of the heel bone. Heel spurs occur when the plantar tendon pulls at its attachment to the heel bone. This area of the heel can later calcify to form a spur. With proper warm-up and the use of appropriate athletic shoes, strain to the ligament can be reduced.
Plantar fasciitis (or heel pain) is commonly traced to an inflammation on the bottom of the foot. Our practice can evaluate arch pain, and may prescribe customized shoe inserts called orthoses to help alleviate the pain. Plantar fasciitis is caused by inflammation of the connective tissue that stretches from the base of the toes, across the arch of the foot, to the point at which it inserts into the heel bone. Also called "heel spur syndrome," the condition can usually be successfully treated with conservative measures such as use of anti-inflammatory medications and ice packs, stretching exercises, orthotic devices, and physical therapy. In some cases where these conservative measures fail, endoscopic surgical release of the ligament is preformed through a tiny incision in the heel.
Check out our On-Line Store for a multitude of products for your foot care needs! http://www.ourdoctorstore.com/vail/
(Information collected from Dr. Vail's website - www.vailfoot.com)
Plantar fasciitis (or heel pain) is commonly traced to an inflammation on the bottom of the foot. Our practice can evaluate arch pain, and may prescribe customized shoe inserts called orthoses to help alleviate the pain. Plantar fasciitis is caused by inflammation of the connective tissue that stretches from the base of the toes, across the arch of the foot, to the point at which it inserts into the heel bone. Also called "heel spur syndrome," the condition can usually be successfully treated with conservative measures such as use of anti-inflammatory medications and ice packs, stretching exercises, orthotic devices, and physical therapy. In some cases where these conservative measures fail, endoscopic surgical release of the ligament is preformed through a tiny incision in the heel.
Check out our On-Line Store for a multitude of products for your foot care needs! http://www.ourdoctorstore.com/vail/
(Information collected from Dr. Vail's website - www.vailfoot.com)
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
A Brief Introduction to Orthopedic Shoe Companies - Part 5
HUSH PUPPIES
In 1958 Hush Puppies created the world’s first casual shoe, signaling the beginning of today‘s relaxed style. By utilizing supple suede in combination with lightweight crepe soles, Hush Puppies created a soft, breathable and very comfortable shoe—an innovation that would ultimately change the kind of shoes we wear. In an era when footwear choices were limited, Hush Puppies provided the world with a new alternative. A modern shoe embraced for its authentic style and casual flair. Since the beginning, the beloved basset hound has embodied the easygoing nature that is Hush Puppies. Introduced during a time of new freedoms and changing lifestyles, our brand name and mascot quickly became symbolic of the emerging optimism of mid-century America.Relaxed and classic in design, Hush Puppies has always defined what it means to be modern and casual. Today, Hush Puppies continues to innovate, bringing technical excellence and genuine style to over 120 countries. A revolutionary idea—born fifty years ago—continues to inspire us today.
For more information, please check out the Hush Puppies website - its link is located on the info-bar to the right.
(Information gathered from the Hush Puppies website)
In 1958 Hush Puppies created the world’s first casual shoe, signaling the beginning of today‘s relaxed style. By utilizing supple suede in combination with lightweight crepe soles, Hush Puppies created a soft, breathable and very comfortable shoe—an innovation that would ultimately change the kind of shoes we wear. In an era when footwear choices were limited, Hush Puppies provided the world with a new alternative. A modern shoe embraced for its authentic style and casual flair. Since the beginning, the beloved basset hound has embodied the easygoing nature that is Hush Puppies. Introduced during a time of new freedoms and changing lifestyles, our brand name and mascot quickly became symbolic of the emerging optimism of mid-century America.Relaxed and classic in design, Hush Puppies has always defined what it means to be modern and casual. Today, Hush Puppies continues to innovate, bringing technical excellence and genuine style to over 120 countries. A revolutionary idea—born fifty years ago—continues to inspire us today.
For more information, please check out the Hush Puppies website - its link is located on the info-bar to the right.
Please contact Dr. Vail's office to receive additional assistance with your foot care needs.
www.vailfoot.com
(Information gathered from the Hush Puppies website)
Monday, March 2, 2009
A Brief Introduction to Orthopedic Shoe Companies - Part 4
DR. COMFORT
Dr. Comfort was founded in 2002 by Rickey Kanter, an individual with over 25 years of footwear experience. Rick grew up working in his father's footwear business, and eventually founded his own chain of comfort footwear stores. These stores specialized in providing a wide range of styles, sizes, and widths for both the average and not-so-average foot.
After 20+ years in the retail footwear industry, Rick sold his business and took a year off for rest and relaxation. It was during this time that Rick became aware of the dilemma faced by diabetics and their feet.
Rick noticed that almost all of the footwear available for the diabetic foot was not only poor in quality and badly lasted; it also lacked another important factor…style.
Rick, with the help of podiatrists and certified pedorthists, founded Dr. Comfort and set about designing footwear to both fulfill the medical needs and exceed the fashion expectations of the diabetic patient. Rick and his team spent a year researching and developing proper medical lasts and eye appealing styles. The result was a product that was extremely well received by diabetics and their health care professionals not only for their feel and function, but also their overall look and quality.
Nowadays, we offer our shoes in all 50 states and internationally, not only to diabetics and those individuals with foot complications, but also to those who need relief for their feet from the stresses of everyday life and those who just desire a comfortable pair of shoes
For more information, please check out the Dr. Comfort website - its link is located on the info-bar to the right.
(Information gathered from the Dr. Comfort website)
Dr. Comfort was founded in 2002 by Rickey Kanter, an individual with over 25 years of footwear experience. Rick grew up working in his father's footwear business, and eventually founded his own chain of comfort footwear stores. These stores specialized in providing a wide range of styles, sizes, and widths for both the average and not-so-average foot.
After 20+ years in the retail footwear industry, Rick sold his business and took a year off for rest and relaxation. It was during this time that Rick became aware of the dilemma faced by diabetics and their feet.
Rick noticed that almost all of the footwear available for the diabetic foot was not only poor in quality and badly lasted; it also lacked another important factor…style.
Rick, with the help of podiatrists and certified pedorthists, founded Dr. Comfort and set about designing footwear to both fulfill the medical needs and exceed the fashion expectations of the diabetic patient. Rick and his team spent a year researching and developing proper medical lasts and eye appealing styles. The result was a product that was extremely well received by diabetics and their health care professionals not only for their feel and function, but also their overall look and quality.
Nowadays, we offer our shoes in all 50 states and internationally, not only to diabetics and those individuals with foot complications, but also to those who need relief for their feet from the stresses of everyday life and those who just desire a comfortable pair of shoes
For more information, please check out the Dr. Comfort website - its link is located on the info-bar to the right.
(Information gathered from the Dr. Comfort website)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
