May 2015

Basic foam flip flops are often a staple in many summer wardrobes. Many experts agree, however, that flip flops should be left for lounging around the pool. Often times flip flops and other summer sandals are too flat and do not properly hold the foot place. Support is typically lacking, and because the feet are not strapped in, slipping causes the foot to tense; allowing conditions such as calluses, blisters and corns to form. Summer sandals should have an adjustable strap to secure the foot into place to avoid slipping.

Flip flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any questions concerning the feet, consult with one of our podiatrists of University Foot and Ankle Center. Our doctors will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Flip-Flops and Feet

When the weather starts warming up, people enjoy wearing flip-flops. Flip-flops are comfortable, stylish, and easy to slip on and off, perfect for any summer beach goer. However, these shoes can cause harm to the feet.

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

• Ankle problems
• Hip problems
• Lower back problems
• Pain in the balls of the feet
• Problems with foot arches
• Changes in the way you walk

Are there injuries associated with flip-flops?

Yes. Since flip-flops are relatively weak and do not provide the same amount of support as sneakers, people who wear flip-flops are more susceptible to injuries. On top of that, the open nature of the shoe makes your feet more prone to other problems, such as cuts and even infections. Common injuries and ailments include:

• Sprained ankles
• Blisters
• Infections
• Cuts and Scrapes

I like wearing flip-flops, are there safe alternatives?

When buying flip-flops, try to find ones that have sturdy soles and are made of high quality materials that will support for your feet. These flip-flops will cost more, but will also last longer as a result.

For more information about Flip Flops, follow the link below.

If you have any questions, please contact our offices located in East Brunswick and Monroe Township, NJ. We offer all the newest in diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle conditions.

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According to Sara Germano of the Wall Street Journal, there has been an increase in running shoe sales for activities that do not include running. The running shoe market is currently one of the highest selling shoe markets in the industry. Although running shoes are made for that specific activity, many people are wearing them for fashion, walking, or basically anything but running. Well-known brands such as Nike, Adidas, and Reebok are all coming out with fashion focused running shoes that are actually made for the everyday individual. Despite this new trend in wearing running shoes to walk, there is still a high demand of runners using the shoes for their actual purpose.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes consult with one of our podiatrists from University Foot and Ankle Center, LLC. Our doctors can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in East Brunswick and Monroe Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Britney Spears has rescheduled two of her Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino Shows in Las Vegas due to an ankle injury. During her performance last week, she injured her ankle and fell. The singer’s doctor advised her not to perform that weekend so the injury could heal resulting in two cancelled shows. Spears has had a residency at the Las Vegas casino since 2014 and has been slowly working on a new album. However, she has been spending most of her time focusing on her two sons Sean and James. “Thank you for all the sweet wishes! Had a little scare on stage tonight with my ankle, but I’m ok,” Spears stated on social media.

Ankle sprains are common, but need immediate attention. If you have any concerns about your potential ankle sprain contact one of our podiatrists of University Foot and Ankle Center, LLC. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?
Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits can aid in prevention

Treatment of a Sprain
Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in East Brunswick and Monroe Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

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Ronnie O’Sullivan has been asking for help with his shoe problems with his World Championship showdown against Matthew Stevens. O’Sullivan has been using the same shoes for the last ten years that are now battered and problematic. During his most recent match, he played shoeless, breaking the dress code. “I’ve bought some new shoes before the tournament and it was a bad, bad move,” the pool star stated. Although O’Sullivan will not be fined for playing shoeless, he would like to be fitted with a comfortable new pair soon before the next match!

Whether you are an athlete or a waiter, working on the feet can be detrimental for your foot health. To learn more contact one of our podiatrists of University Foot & Ankle Center, LLC. Our doctors 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 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 hours, or all day. Try allowing yourself to expose your feet to air.

Eliminate Pain

Foot Exercises – performing simple exercises, incorporating yoga and stretches is 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.

Keep your feet healthy and your body will thank you for it.

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

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