Shoe Lacing Techniques

So you have tried on multiple pairs of running shoes and there is just something that isn't right. The perfect fit may be just a lace adjustment away! Here are a couple of lacing options to help you find the perfect fit!

Heels that are slip...sliding...away.....
Try this lacing technique: Take each lace and place in each end back into the same hole leaving a small loop on the outside of the eyelet. Thread each loose end through the loop on the opposite side. Pull to create a secure closure of the lace.

High instep? No problem!
Feet with a high instep can also enjoy a perfect fit with a slight adjustment. Try this one: Begin to lace your shoes as normal with a criss cross lacing. When you reach the midfoot, instead of the criss cross, feed the laces up each side of the shoe. Then complete your lacing with the criss cross lacing method.

Got a wide forefoot? This technique ought to help you:
Similar to the lacing technique listed above, feed the laces up each side of the shoe in the width portion of the shoe. Once you pass the widest area of the foot, continue with the traditional criss cross lacing method.

For the narrow foot, we have one for you too!
Use the loop lace lock as listed above halfway up the shoe adds an extra layer of lacing over your midfoot. This will result in a more secure fit!

While lacing techniques are helpful, ensure you are fitted by a shoe professional for the optimum fit based on your fitness level. Once you have the right shoes and lacing, get out and go for your walk or run!

Visit our Step Alive Center to check out our top shoe list and other tip and tricks for getting your feet feeling healthy!  Our online product store also has a lot to offer including this men's therapeutic shoe that features....

• Unique Strap-On lacing system for uniform and easy fastening.  
• Foam padded mesh upper with extra foam padding in the tongue and collar. 
• Soft fabric lining with extra foam padding enhances comfort and protects the foot against irritations.  
• Ortho-Step® multi-layer insole cradles the foot, providing customized support along with excellent shock absorption. It offers relief for heel pain and foot discomfort, making every step you take extremely comfortable.  
• Wide, lightweight cushioning sole with Ergonomic-Stride construction enhances comfort and stability, and assists your body to propel.   
• Anatomical design with added depth and a wide toe box ensures a relaxed fit and freedom for toe movement.  
• Extra depth available: 3/8"
• Two sets of removable spacers (2 mm and 3 mm thick) allow the adjustment of the space inside the shoe for a perfect fit. 
• 1/2" heel height (the difference between heel and forefoot).

Ditch the Shoe, Not the Sport

According to a recent study done by the APMA, the most common cause of foot pain in teens is related to sports.  If you are a teen, or have a teenager, don't let footpain keep you out of the game!  Your feet may be causing you pain because of those five-year old running shoes you keep shoving them in.  It is extremely important to have proper footwear for your sport and this means replacing old and worn out shoes when the time is right. 

If you are worried about being green, don't worry! You can save your feet and the earth at the same time.  There are several programs dedicated to recycling old and worn out tennis shoes.  For example, Nike's reuse-a-shoe program takes your old tennis shoes and converts them into Nike Grind Foam, Track, or Fiber.

Now that you have tossed your old painful shoes, it is time to buy some new ones and get back in the game.  Check out our website for doctor approved products like the Orthaheel Walker Shoe.  This shoe provides the motion-controlling footbed resists foot odor and features a controured arch support and deep heel cup the realighns your stride so that you can achieve your fitness goals.  Don't hesitate to call our office at 419-423-1888 to set up an appointment. 

If the Shoe Fits...

Summer is the perfect time to get into the exercise groove or change up your old exercise routine.  If you are trying out new sports, be sure to have the proper footwear.  Check out these tips from APMA for getting the proper shoes for your next sport.

Basketball Shoes Should....

• A thick, stiff sole to give support for running and landing from jumps
• High ankle construction to support the ankle during quick changes in direction

Racquetball/Tennis Shoes Should...

• Support both sides of the foot for quick lateral movement and weight shifts
• Have a flexible sole for fast changes of direction
• Have less shock absorption than a running or basketball shoes

Running Shoes Should....

• Have maximum shock protection to avoid knee pain and shin splints
• Control the way your foot strikes the ground
• Have the right support for your foot

Check out the Advanced Footcare Clinic's Top Shoe List and receive updates throughout the year.  The Top Shoe List provides you with brand-name shoes that are doctor approved.  Visit our website to learn more!


*Tips from APMA.org

Anatomy of a Shoe

Understanding the basic construction of shoes will help you make more informed decisions and select shoes that fit your foot and needs.

Shoes are made up of five major components:

• The toe box is the tip of the shoe that provides space for the toes. Toe boxes are generally rounded, pointed, or squared and will determine the amount of space provided for the toes.
• The vamp is the upper middle part of the shoe where the laces are commonly placed. Sometimes Velcro is used instead of laces.
• The sole consists of an insole and an outsole. The insole is inside the shoe; the outsole contacts the ground. The softer the sole, the greater the shoe's ability to absorb shock.
• The heel is the bottom part of the rear of the shoe that provides elevation. The higher the heel, the greater the pressure on the front of the foot.
• The last is the part of the shoe that curves in slightly near the arch of the foot to conform to the average foot shape. This curve enables you to tell the right shoe from the left.

The material from which a shoe is made can affect fit and comfort. Softer materials decrease the amount of pressure the shoe places on the foot. Stiff materials can cause blisters. A counter may be used to stiffen the material around the heel and give added support to the foot.

Structure of a Basic Shoe:
The following is a description of the basic anatomy of a shoe.
Toe box - the very tip of the shoe that provides space for your toes. The toe box can be either rounded or pointed; these designs determine the amount of space allowed for your toes.
Vamp - the upper, middle section of a shoe where the laces are typically found, although Velcro can sometimes take the place of laces.
Insole and Outsole - the insole is inside of the shoe; the outsole contacts the ground.
The softer the sole, the greater the shoe's ability to absorb shock.

Heel - the bottom area at the rear of the shoe that provides proper elevation. More pressure is put on your foot with a higher heel.
The last section of a shoe is the area that curves in slightly to conform to the average foot shape, allowing you to decipher from the right and the left shoe

Structure of Men's Shoes:
The following are some characteristics specific to men's shoes:
Roomy Toe Box. The toe box usually has an appropriate amount of horizontal and vertical space along with a low heel (typically about half-an-inch-high).
Hard or Soft Soles. Soles can be made of hard materials, such as leather, or soft materials such as crepe; however, softer soles tend to be more comfortable and will protect your feet and help keep them comfortable.

Structure of Work Shoes:
Work shoes are available with varying characteristics dependent on the wearer's occupation
Work boots are often made of thick leather with steel toe boxes that can be worn to protect your feet from injury.
Boots are available with different levels of traction.

Structure of Women's Shoes:
The following are some considerations for women's shoes:
Low-heeled shoes (one inch or lower) with a wide toe box are the best choice. They have a wide toe box that can support the front part of the foot.
High-heeled, pointed-toe shoes can lead to numerous problems including discomfort or injury to the toes, ankles, knees, calves, and back .
Most high-heeled shoes have a pointed, narrow front area that crowds and forces toes into an unnatural position.
The higher the heel, the more stress and pressure is put on the ball of the foot and on the forefoot, causing further discomfort.
Low-heeled shoes can also cause discomfort if they don't fit well.

Structure of Athletic Shoes:
Since athletic shoes are meant for high levels of activity, they have some unique characteristics, including:
Protects players from specific stresses encountered for a given sport. Variations in design, material and lacing characteristics are meant to protect your feet.
Shoes are specific to each sport; the amount of cushioning and stability needed for different activities will determine the type of shoe recommended.
Well-fitted shoes need to be comfortable; a good fit will reduce blisters and other skin conditions

Men's Shoes

Most men's shoes conform to the shape of the feet and have a roomy toe box with sufficient horizontal and vertical space and a low heel (usually about half an inch high). Soles made of either hard materials (such as leather) or soft materials (such as crepe) can be worn, but softer soles tend to be more comfortable. If you stand for extended periods of time, shoes with soft, pliable. and cushioned soles will protect your feet and help keep them comfortable.

The best shoes for men are good quality oxford styles, shoes ordinarily associated with wing-tip or cap toe designs. Also suitable are slip-ons, dressy loafers, and low dress boots.

It is advisable to have three to five pairs of shoes for business so that you can alternate your shoes on a daily basis.

Women's Shoes

The best shoe for women's feet is a walking shoe with laces (not a slip-on), a composition sole, and a relatively wider heel with a rigid and padded heel counter, no more than three-quarters of an inch in height.
Some women inflict punishment on their feet from improper footwear that can bring about unnecessary foot problems. Some of the problems result from high-heeled shoes (generally defined as pumps with heels of more than two inches).

A study conducted by the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society found that:

• Nine out of 10 women wear shoes that are too small for their feet.
• Eight out of 10 women say their shoes are painful.
• More than 7 out of 10 women have developed a bunion, hammertoe, or other painful foot deformity.
• Women are nine times more likely to develop a foot problem because of improper fitting shoes than a man.
• Nine out of 10 women's foot deformities can be attributed to tight shoes.

High-heeled, pointed-toe shoes can cause numerous orthopedic problems, leading to discomfort or injury to the toes, ankles, knees, calves, and back. Many high-heeled-shoes also have a pointed, narrow toe box that crowds the toes and forces them into an unnatural triangular shape. These shoes distribute the body's weight unevenly, placing excess stress on the ball of the foot and on the forefoot. This uneven distribution of weight, coupled with the narrow toe box characteristic of most high heels, can lead to discomfort, bunions, hammertoes, and other deformities.

The height of the heel makes a dramatic difference in the pressure that occurs on the bottom of the foot. As heel height increases, the pressure under the ball of the foot may double, placing greater pressure on the forefoot as it is forced into the pointed toe box.

To relieve the abusive effects of high heels, women should limit the amount of time they wear them and alternate these shoes with good quality sneakers or flats for part of the day. Look for comfortable and attractive walking pumps for work and social activities, that blend fashion appeal with athletic shoe-derived construction, reinforced heels, and wider toe room for greater comfort. Low-heeled shoes (one inch or lower) with a wide toe box are the ideal choice for women. An ample toe box that can accommodate the front part of the foot is as important as the heel in determining fit.

Do You Qualify for Diabetic Shoes with Medicare?

If you are a diabetic and need diabetic shoes, you probably want your insurance to pay for them.  However, medicare has several requirement that you must meet to qualify for coverage on your diabetic shoes.  According to medicare.com, first, you must be diabetic, second, you must have foot amputation, foot ulcers, calluses, poor circulation, or deformed foot. You should also be under a comprehensive diabetic care plan.  Medicare also requires a prescription from a qualified doctor and a certified individual to dispense the shoes. They must also come froma medicare-approved supplier. If you have a Medicare advantage plan you should check the coverage for your individual plan.

Once you confirm that you are qualified for your diabetic shoes you are allowed either one pair of depth-inlay shoes and three inserts or one pair of custom molded shoes for those who cannot wear inserts.  Once you get your shoes, it is very important to have your shoes fit by a professional.  The fitter should check your shoes for the following

• Breathable construction—sandals and fabric shoes are best
• Deep and wide design—to allow for insoles
• Designs with no interior seams that could rub
• Easily adjustable fit—elastic can help

Pictured above is a diabetic shoes, Orthofeet Women's slip on wedge.  It has features including....

• Lightweight.
• A moderate wedge design provides comfort and very attractive looks.
• Supple leather with extra foam padding in the tongue and collar.
• Hook and loop straps and a wide opening make for an easy On/Off shoe.
• Construction across the metatarsals provides extra room, if needed, to accommodate swollen feet and forefoot deformities, especially bunions.
• Seamless fabric lining, padded with foam enhances comfort and protection.
• Stretchable padded collar along the entire edge of the upper insures comfortable fit, box and eliminates pressure points.
• Wider and deeper toe box ensures a comfortable fit, even for those with hammertoes and corns.
• Cushioning sole for added comfort - made of light weight EVA midsole and rubber outsole.
• Adjustbale and customized fit with a single strap that can be fastened on either side of the shoe (see 2nd picture).

For more products for your diabetic needs visit our product store. To schedule an appointment to talk about diabetic shoes, call our office at 419-423-1888, or visit our website to request an appointment.

What You Need to Know About Diabetic Shoes

Get the Right Fit.
Diabetes can lead to problems with circulation to the extremities, which includes the feet.  When you don't wear the correct shoes, feet become irritated or infected.  If left untreated, the infection can lead to amputation.  It is crucial for diabetics to have the correct foot wear.  When you wear ill fitting shoes, it lessens your foot sensitivity and you may not notice a sore or an infection.  Shoes specifically designed for diabetics will help reduce the stress to the feet and keep them healthy and free of disease.

Visit Your Doctor First.

Men's New Balance

Before you purchase any shoes, you should always visit your doctor first.  Your doctor will let you know if you have any nerve damage in your feet due to your diabetes.  If you do have any nerve damage, you will need shoes specifically designed for diabetics.  When you have nerve damage, it means you cannot feel pressure or any irritations.  When you wear bad fitting shoes, they will eventually cause these problems.  When you don't have the proper feeling, wearing shoes that are too tight will rub blisters that can lead to infection and other serious complications.

Fit and Function.
Most people buy shoes because of the way they look, diabetics need to buy shoes because of the way they fit.  Diabetic shoes are designed for the need for good circulation to the feet.  Diabetic shoes come in a variety of styles with several companies to choose from.  You can check out the different varieties by visiting our Step Alive Shoes website.  It's best to purchase diabetic shoes for whatever activities you need them for.  You may need them for walking, the office or just for everyday use.  At the very least, purchase a pair of  diabetic shoes you can wear everyday.

Women's Natural Step

How to Choose.

The best way for you to try on diabetic shoes is by wearing the type of socks or hosiery you will be wearing with the shoes on a daily basis.  If you don't, you may purchase a paid of shoes that feel great in the store but once you get home and change socks they are too tight.  This defeats the purpose of getting the right fit.  You may also want to purchase lace-up shoes instead of slip-ons.  Slip on shoes are designed to fit more tightly because they need to stay snug on your feet.  Lace-up shoes gives you more flexibility for tightening and loosening when needed.

The Right Time.
The best time to try on shoes for purchasing it after noon.  Feet tend to be more their regular size after you have been walking, sitting and standing for several hours.  Feet are slightly larger towards the afternoon, so this will give a truer fit that will be comfortable all the time.  If you purchase shoes in the morning, they may end up being too tight, which is dangerous for diabetics.  Diabetics need to have the correct fit at all times, so purchase them towards the end of your day to ensure comfort and the proper fit throughout the day.

If you have any questions regarding the fit of your shoes, or want to have Dr. Vail give you a diabetic foot check up before you purchase any shoes, give us a call at 419-423-1888 or visit our website at http://www.vailfoot.com/. 

The new Berries-an everyday vacation for your feet

If you are like me and have a hard time finding cute and comfortable shoes, then you must check out this new line of shoes from Aetrex. Their Berries line has three trendsetting styles for you:  Clogs, Mary Janes, and Slip-ons.  With these shoes, your feet will be so comfortable that you won't even notice you are wearing shoes.  More to the point, you need to treat your feet everyday like they are on vacation since they take care of you.  Let's look at some of the benefits the Berries by Aetrex has to offer.


Clog in Appleberry



First of all, these shoes are designed from memory foam.  This is the same type of memory foam used for mattresses and pillows that gives you a good nights sleep.  Now, just imagine how much comfort these shoes are going to give your feet.  It's just like walking on a cloud- no pressure or discomfort. 

Slip-on in Cranberry

Because of this use of memory foam, the shoes are stretchable and versatile.  That means when you are in a hurry to head out that door, all you need to do is slip them on.  There is no need to make any adjustments to these shoes.  The overall flexibility and comfort tends to make the shoes innovative casual footwear.

 

Secondly, Aetrex uses Mozaic Customization Technology to get customized comfort and support to minimize discomfort.  With this technology, stretch materials are built directly into the foot bed of the shoe and has the adjustability and flexibility of side straps.  Because Berries shoes has this Mozaic technology, you can wear your shoes from day one.  There is no breaking in period.



Mary Jane in Blueberry



  And finally, these shoes have built in Aegis foot bed linings for anti-microbial reasons. This technology stops the feet from getting algae, bacteria, and fungal infections.  This helps with keeping your feet and toenails looking healthy.

Berries by Aetrex can be found in a variety of sizes and widths to fit every woman.  These shoes also have full grain leather accents and stitching to go along with all the other technology advancements that make these shoes a must have.  They are also available in a rainbow of colors which include:  cranberry, blueberry, gooseberry, mulberry, raspberry, cocoberry, appleberry, blackberry, and boysenberry (now can you see why they are calle Berries?).

       
  If you are interested in learning more about the Berries from Aetrex line, please visit our website at http://www.vailfoot.com/ and click on Step-Alive-Shoes.  You can also schedule a shoe fitting by calling 419-423-1888.





Diabetic Shoes-Looking Good!

Diabetic shoes have come along way since your grandmother first started wearing them.  Not only in fulfilling the medical needs of diabetics but also in exceeding fashion expectations. 
You may ask yourself, is it really necessary for me to wear diabetic shoes?  The answer is yes!  With the most common side effect of diabetes being peripheral neuropathy, which causes the loss of sensation in the extremities, you want the best fitting shoe possible.  An ill-fitting shoe can lead to rubbing or pinching of the feet which can lead to an ulceration or foot injury because the diabetic cannot feel the injury until it is too late.

Dr. Comfort "Mary Jane"

Wearing diabetic shoes is very important in  preventing such injuries.  There are several companies we work with who specialize and manufacture special shoes and insoles for diabetics.  These companies include:  Dr. Comfort, Natural Step, PW Minor, Pedors and Aetrex just to name a few.
Diabetic shoes are made wider and deeper than regular shoes.  This allows room for the special diabetic insoles that are custom made for each patients feet.  This ensures a proper fit, minimizes rubbing and uneven weight distribution, and prevents injury.  It is also important for a diabetic to have shoes with good air circulation.
It is very important for a diabetic to have their shoes custom fitted by a trained professional.  You want someone trained in diabetic shoe fitting so you don't get an improper fit since you may not be able to feel the shoe due to peripheral neuropathy.  By ensuring a proper fit and good air circulation, properly designed diabetic shoes and insoles will help prevent pressure ulcers, encourage good blood circulation and allow the skin to breathe.
Here are some traits to look for in a good shoe design for diabetics.





Dr. Comfort "Cozy"


• Diabetic shoes need to have a breathable construction.  Shoes made from fabric or sandals are a good choice.
• Deep and wide designs that allow room for custom diabetic insoles.
• Designs with no interior seams or have covered seams to prevent rubbing injuries.
• Diabetic shoes need a roomy toe box to prevent pinching or squeezing of the toes.
• Elastic or easily adjustable fit.  This is to prevent the shoe from sliding around on the foot. 

To schedule your diabetic shoe fitting or learn more about diabetic footcare, call our office at 419-423-1888 or visit our website at http://www.vailfoot.com/.

What is all the fuss about Crocs?

Everywhere you go, you run into someone wearing a pair of Crocs.  You will find Crocs in schools, in the mall, and even in hospitals and doctors offices being worn by young and old alike.  So what is all the fuss about Crocs?  Personally, I find them to be some of the most comfortable shoes I have ever tried on.  Even if you don't like the clog style, they seem to be coming up with new versions everyday.  They even have dress shoes for men and women, along with high heels for women as well.  But if you have Diabetes or problems with your feet, they have styles for you as well.

Through the Crocs Rx link on our Step Alive shoes website, you will be able to view five different types of Crocs from the Rx line.  This line was designed specifically with healthy feet in mind.  These shoes were designed specifically to eliminate plantar pain and achy feet.  They also help people who have injured feet as well as bunions and diabetes.  Crocs Rx provide inner support, heel cups, massaging heel nubs as well as arch support.  Also, RxCrocs are lined with an antibacterial material that will help prevent fungal and bacterial infections.  Plus, Crocs offer more protection to your feet in the warmer months than flip-flops.  And Crocs are also certified by the U.S. Ergonomics Council and the American Podiatric Medical Association. 

The "Relief"

If you like the look of the traditional Croc, you will like the Relief.  This shoe is ideal for people who have arthritis, plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, arch pain, forefoot pain, bunions, neuroma, metatarsalgia, hammer toes claw toes or swollen/achy feet. 
The Cloud, Silver Cloud, and Custom Cloud are all designed with diabetics in mind.  All these shoes offer protection of the toes and accommodations for orthotics.  The Custom Cloud also offers extra depth for moldable inserts, a soft shock-absorbing footbed and protective toe cap.

The "Silver Fox"

Here is a shoe that is for all the women out there.  The Silver Fox is labeled as the feminine comfort shoe for the stylish woman.  The Silver Fox has an anatomically designed sole that provides comfortable relief for plantar fasciitis, heel bruises and other plantar injuries.  It has a super-soft footbed that provides a gentle environment for sensitive feet, while the feminine style of the shoe allows it to be worn barefoot or with a thin sock for comfort.

You also want to keep paying attention to your feet.  Don't get a false sense of support while wearing these shoes.  If you are continuing to have problems or pain with your feet, you may need custom molded orthotics or other treatments depending on your diagnosis. 

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your feet, please visit our website at www.vailfoot.com or call to schedule an appointment with Dr. Vail at 419-423-1888.

Why Shoe Fit Matters Even For Non-Deformed Feet

Every podiatrist understands the relationship between poorly fitting shoes and foot deformity. Many podiatrist routinely order diabetic shoes, extra-depth shoes and sometimes even casts for custom molded shoes for the deformed foot. For the non-deformed foot, we simply rely on an “approved shoe list” or a “specialty shoe store” to which we send our patients. (view our online shoe store "type in shoes in the search bar")

We do not know the difference between a shoe’s upper and lower. We are not familiar with any brand of shoes that are not approved by the American Podiatric Medical Association or the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine. We do not know what a Brannock device is, much less how to differentiate heel-to-ball from heel-to-toe.

It doesn't matter if a patient was a sponsored triathlete or a young woman who has to wear high heels at work everyday. One thing became crystal clear. Without the right shoe, the best treatment plan or orthotic in the world wouldn’t help.

What you need to know about Choosing Footwear

Did You Know? Carefully choosing footwear can reduce many foot problems.

More than 43 million Americans experience foot trouble due to poorly fitted shoes. You can learn how to ruduce your foot and ankle problems by learning how to choose shoes that are protective, durable, and comfortable.

Children's shoes

As your child's foot develops, you will need to resize socks and shoes frequently to allow for comfort and growth. When shopping for shoes, be sure to examine the shoe for comfort, fit, support and quality. Do not use handed-down shoes that may impact your child's foot development.

Women's shoes

Women's Leather Strap

A vast majority of women suffer from wearing high heels --2" or higher -- to be fashionable and feel more attractive. For the healthiest feet, women should avoid standing or walking in high heels for long periods of time. Here at our online products store, we have plenty of shoes to choose from. The product to our right (you can view this shoe by clicking on the highlighted link) is our Women's leather strap. This is a Therapeutic Shoe, that looks as great as it feels. This product is made by OrthoFeet. OrthoFeet shoes offer the most comfortable fit and pain relief for those suffering from diabetes, plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, bunions, hammertoes, corns, Morton's neuroma, and swollen feet and toes. Each pair is sold with a 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed Policy!

Men's Leather Lace Boot

Men's shoes

Men in professional work can select high quality oxford style shoes with a cushioned sole. For men who work in industrial setting, water-resistent, steel toe capped safety boots are recommended. A very durable shoe we recommend for hefty males in the office is our Orthofeet Men's Leather Lace Boot (Pictured on the left). If you click on the highlighted link under the boot, you can view all the accomdations this Therapeutic Shoe has to offer. It's a light weight, soft, and has extra width and depth to accommodate swollen feet. When ordering this boot, order this as you would any athletic shoe. If you wear a size 11 for basketball, a size 11 would work just fine for this lightweight boot.

Men's Athletic Lace-Up

Athletic Shoes

Athletes of all ages and performance levels need shoes designed for their sport or activity. Properly fitted, sport specific shoes should be worn to hold the foot in the most natural position for the expected movement. This mens athletic shoe to our right (Click on the Highlighted link to view our shoe), is a unique customized fit with innovative stretch panels and moldable insoles that offers great walking comfort. This shoe is very unique because it was designed to offer added depth and a wide toe box that ensures a relaxed fit and plenty of toe movement.

Finally, tips for choosing your footwear:

-Have your feet measured each time, because feet change size over time.

-While your feet are being measured, be sure to stand with weight on them.

-Your feet swell during the day, so shop for shoes towards the evening.

-Fit new shoes to your largest foot, if your feet are different sizes.

-Have shoes fitted to your heel as well as your toes.

-Always try on shoes, as sizes may vary by brand.

-Walkin around in the shoes to make sure they fit comfortable.

-There should be a 1/2" space from the end of your longest toe to the end of the shoe

-Always allow for "wiggle room" for your toes.

-Avoid shoes that have a heel higher than 2".

*Please feel free to call us (419) 423-1888 for a regular foot exam or if you have any foot problems.

Fashionable Footcare

More than 43 million Americans struggle with foot trouble due to ill fitting shoes.  This struggle can be attributed to sandals, flip flops, high heels, or even ill fitting tennis shoes.

High heels tighten the Achilles tendon and calf muscles as well as adding a significant amount of pressure to the ball of the foot. The fancy footwear also causes metatarsalgia, which is pain in the ball of the foot.  Heels can also do some serious damage to your knees. 

Sandals and flip flops provide little support for your feet and arches.  Most flip flops have only a thin sole that does not protect from gravel, broken glass, or hard surfaces.  Simply stepping on gravel can cause bruising in the foot, and no one wants a bruise on the feet that support them all day! However, in the warm summer months no one wants to be stuck in a pair of bulky tennis shoes or struggling with pain caused from wearing sandals with little or no support.  The Advanced Footcare Clinic offers a solution to this sandal lover's dilemma. 

Sandalistas are stylish podiatrist approved sandals. Sandalistas are constructed with Memory Foam that adapts to your unique gait as well as providing an equal distribution of pressure while walking. They feature built-in Lynco support, giving you the benefits of a successful orthotic system.  Mozaic Technology is built into the footbed, a patented technology that allows you to customize each sandal. Best of all for flip flop fashionistas, Sandalistas are stylish.  The shoes come in several fashionable styles and colors.

For more fashionable footcare visit our product store at vailfoot.com.  The website offers healthy (and cute!)flip flops that are only available through podiatrist's office.  So ditch your old worn old sandals and upgrade to fashionable footcare.

Fungus of the toenails, also called onychomycosis, is fairly common. Affected toenails become yellow or brownish and brittle. They also can thicken and become painful over time. Fungus toenails may also lead to bacterial infections and ingrown toenails. Fungus is an organism damp, dark and warm places. Wear socks that wick away moisture from the skin and shoes that allow your feet to breathe. Nail polish can also encourage fungal growth. There is a nail polish called Dr. Remedys Enriched Nail Polish that contains an antibacterial and antifungal preservative to help prevent fungal toenail infections.



Click below to purchase the Dr. Remedys Enriched Nail Polish from Our Online Store:



http://www.ourdoctorstore.com/vail/store/item.asp?ITEM_ID=694&DEPARTMENT_ID=174

Foot infection is a huge economic and social burden for patients with diabetes. Infection usually is a consequence rather than the cause of foot ulcers in diabetic patients. Infection is a clinically diagnosis and can be categorized as mild cellulitis, moderate to severe cellulitis and osteomyelitis. Infected foot ulcers require appropriate tissue and bone cultures to guide antibiotic therapy whereas uninfected ulcers do not require antibiotics. Duration of treatment varies from 2 to 6 weeks based on the severity of infection, along with surgical debridement. Prevention of foot ulcer and infection requires patient education, detection of neuropathy, glycemic control, and proper foot care with foot hygiene and appropriate footwear. The patient is an important member of the team and should be taught the importance of self examination and early reporting of foot problems.
To get Dr. Vail's new book: Diabetes and your Feet: Steps to an Easier Life, Click the link below:

http://www.advancedfootcareclinic.com/book-and-dvd.html

A great product for Neuropathy is 'Neuremedy'. Many neuropathy sufferers experience dramatic relief from their symptoms within a month after trying Neuremedy. It is not unusual to notice improvement within a few days. Click link below to purchase:Many neuropathy sufferers experience dramatic relief from their symptoms within a month after trying Neuremedy. It is not unusual to notice improvement within a few days.

http://www.ourdoctorstore.com/vail/store/item.asp?ITEM_ID=712&DEPARTMENT_ID=53

The human foot has 26 bones, 33 joints and more than 100 tendons, muscles and ligaments. With such a complex structure, a lot can go wrong. While some foot problems are inherited, many occur because of years of wear and tear. Signs of foot trouble include pain, excessively dry skin, thickened or discolored nails, swelling redness and unusual sensations. People with diabetes, poor circulation or heart problems should not treat their own feet because they are more prone to infection.

Are you looking to purchase Diabetic Shoes? Here are a few tips to follow:

• Look for shoes with no interior seam it helps to prevent rubbing injuries
• Shoes should have deep and wide designs for feet to breath
• Plenty of toe box room to prevent pinching or squeezing of the toes
• Wear proper fitting shoes, the right size and wide help prevent slipping

Finding The Proper Shoe Fit

Find shoes that allow a natural position for the whole foot, providing adequate room for the toes to spread out. Shoes with flexible soles are a good way to strengthen the tendon of the foot and toes. Toe spring, heel height and narrow toe boxes are the three important components of a shoes that will influence the structure of the foot. Most importantly, give your feet some breathing room. Strip them down and give them some much needed TLC!

CARING FOR YOUR FEET

*Wear the right shoe for the right activity

*Buy comfortable, well made shoes that support your feet and ankles


*Avoid walking barefoot outside

*Pamper you feet after a hard days work

*Make an appointment with a doctor if you have an injury or pain that won't go away

*Sometimes an injection, orthopedic shoes (or insert), or series of stretches can relieve your symptoms without having surgery

Foot pain can take the pleasure out of living. By taking care of your feet you can prolong the enjoyment and delay the pain.