Lindsay Crouse of the New York Times believes that heavily padded bulky sneakers will be the next big thing when it comes to running calling the new trend “maximalist running shoes.” Although they look very similar to the gimmicky walking shoes from a few years ago, Olympic medalist Leo Manzano made the switch and believes the shoes had removed his plantar fasciitis after only a week. Beginning 2010, barefoot running was the new trend in physical activity since major runners believed this would reduce injury and general pain. Unfortunately barefoot runners are finding that their injuries are not going away with the activity causing a change in the number of minimalist runners to maximalists. Runners should not count on this new trend to immediately heal their pain since there is no real proof as of yet that the overly cushioned running shoes will make any real difference. “I don’t know that they are going to be the solution,” Crouse states, but she has a feeling runners will still try.

For more information about getting the correct shoe for your foot type consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot Doctor of the East Bay. 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 office located in California. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

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Podiatrists from Mississauga, ON suggest that wearing orthotics will help realign the foot so that patients with calluses may see a reduction. Calluses are known as dead skin on their feet that build up in thick masses typically on the heels and balls of the feet. Over time the buildup of dead skin becomes uncomfortable and more difficult to take care of. Calluses have even been known to cause so much pain that victims even have a hard time walking or standing when they are not treated properly. With the help of custom orthotics, the pressure on the foot can be shifted and supported to prevent the amount of calluses that develop on the soles of the feet.

Foot orthotics are useful in treating a myriad of conditions. If you are interested in using orthotics, speak to one of our podiatrists from Foot Doctor of the East Bay. Our doctors can evaluate the severity of your condition and determine what type of care would best suit your needs.

What are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts you can place into your shoes to help with a variety of foot problems such as flat feet or foot pain. Orthotics provide relief and comfort for minor foot and heel pain, but can’t correct serious biomechanical problems in your feet.

Over-the-Counter Inserts

Orthotics come in a wide variety of over-the-counter inserts that are used to treat foot pain, heel pain, and minor problems. For example, arch supports can be inserted into your shoes to help correct over arched or flat feet, while gel insoles are often used because they provide comfort and relief from foot and heel pain by alleviating pressure.

Prescription Orthotics

If over-the-counter inserts don’t work for you, or if you have a more severe foot issue, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high quality inserts are usually molded to your feet individually, which allow them to provide full support and comfort.

If you are experiencing minor to severe foot or heel pain, it’s recommended to speak with your podiatrist on the possibilities of using orthotics.

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

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According to Dr. Pfenninger of the Midland Daily News, it is estimated that ten percent of the adult population already has some type of nail fungus. At times, individuals can have toenail fungus and not even be aware that it is there. Some signs of nail fungus include thickening, discoloration, weak nails, appearance of debris under the nail, foul smells when nails are wet, and the occasional lifting up of the nail into a tent-shape. Older individuals and women are also more likely to have fungus in their toenails. Many people may have toenail fungus but initially confuse it for an ingrown toenail. Although there are topical and oral antifungal medications available, prevention is important. To avoid nail fungus, allow your feet to fully dry after showering and keep the nails groomed.

While toenail fungus is troublesome to eradicate, it is not impossible. For more information about treatment, consult with one of our podiatrists from Foot Doctor of the East Bay. Our doctors will attend to all of your podiatric needs.

Toenail Fungus Treatment

Toenail fungus is a problem which affects many people and is hard to get rid of. Fortunately, there are several methods to go about treating toenail fungus.

Antibiotics & Treatments 

Lamisil – is the most commonly effective treatment for toenail fungus. It is available as an antibiotic Terbinafine tablet and cream. Terbinafine is a chemical component which kills fungal growth on the body.  Applying regular doses will gradually kill the fungal growth. It is important to keep the area clean and air free. 

Talcum powder – applying powder on the feet and shoes helps keep the feet free of moisture and sweat.

Sandals or open toed shoes – wearing these will allow air movement and help keep feet dry. They also expose your feet to light, which fungus cannot tolerate. Socks with moisture wicking material also help as well

Alternative Treatments

There are always surgical procedures that are available for toenail fungus. Some people would like immediate quick removal of toenail fungus. Surgeons will be able to cut through and remove the growth using laser surgery. It is important not to try and remove it yourself. Once removed, your old shoes will need to be replaced to avoid reinfection.  

For more information about Toenail Fungus, follow the link below.

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

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Podiatrists estimate that millions of Americans suffer from toenail fungus. While this may seem like no big deal to those who don't have it, onychomycosis causes these those afflicted to hide their feet in embarrassment from family and friends. Going barefoot or wearing sandals and other open-toed foot wear is simply not an option because of:

• a yellow nail color
• thick, brittle nails
• an offensive foot odor

Causes and treatments of toenail fungus

The micro-organism that causes onchomycosis absolutely thrives in moisture and darkness. So, gym locker rooms, swimming pools, showers and of course, sweaty footwear and socks are the perfect breeding ground. Even the best of hygiene, including bathing and frequent changes of socks and sneakers, does not always keep this foot fungus from invading nails and staying around for years. Also, the incidence of toe nail fungus seems to increase with age.

Common treatments have included anti-fungal ointments and creams applied directly to the affected area. Foot doctors claim, though, that patients get discouraged with the minimal results and lengthy treatment time (often up to a full year) associated with anti-fungals. In addition, oral medications can have spotty results and are concerning because they might be toxic to some patients.

Laser treatment of toenail fungus can help.

In recent years, podiatrists have begun using an FDA-cleared treatment for toenail fungus. Called the Genesis Plus Cutera Laser, this innovative device uses the highly focused light from a medical laser to penetrate the nail bed--without need for anesthesia. The procedure is painless, does not affect surrounding tissues and basically has no other side effects. It takes 30 to 40 minutes and can be repeated in subsequent appointments depending how bad the condition is.

Performed in the doctor's office, treatment with the Genesis Plus Cutera Laser really improves the look of the nail. As time goes on, a healthier, more normal-looking nail grows--good news for individuals who have struggled for extended periods of time with onchomycosis.

Foot Doctor of the East Bay

Michael Stein DPM and Zeindelin Ahmad DPM offer their East Bay area patients treatment with the Genesis Plus Cutera Laser. Pleased with its results in how nails look and with how patients feel more confident, Drs. Stein and Ahmad have used the laser on thousands of individuals who desired normal, healthy feet and nails.

The staff at their three locations would be pleased to help you and your family put your best foot forward! Call today for a consultation on toenail fungus, diabetic foot issues or any other concern related to podiatry.

• In San Leandro, call 510-483-3390.
• In Pleasanton, call 925-425-9684.
• In Los Gatos, call 408-356-6767.