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University of Calgary to Develop New Study
Runners have often chosen footwear that is specifically tailored to their unique biomechanics with the wisdom of sports medicine specialists. However, some modern scientists dispute this notion; believing comfort is the most important attribute of a running shoe. Proponents of the comfort theory maintain that other details, including biomechanics, are rather minor.
To try and settle this debate, scientists at the University of Calgary is working on a new study. This study will focus on the effects of comfort in running shoes and the rate at which runners develop injuries. The ultimate goal of this study is to provide shoe developers with tips for future shoe designs.
For optimal foot health, you should understand the differences between walking and running shoes. If you have any foot or ankle injuries, see podiatrist one of our doctors at New York Foot and Ankle. Our specialists can treat your foot and ankle needs.
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.
For more information about the Differences between Walking and Running Shoes, follow the link below.
If you have any questions feel free to contact us at one of our locations in New York. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
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Getting the Right Shoe Size: How To Keep Your Feet Happy
Recent research from the University of Queensland scientists has shed some light on the role other foot muscles play in arch support. The scientists used an experiment that involved weights to prove this. Upon studying the movement of the muscles in the foot, it became clear that more muscles aid in arch support than originally thought.
Dr. Glen Lichtwark and his colleagues at the university conducted another experiment using electrical stimulation. When activated, the tissues in the arch began to rise. Lichtwark believes that this could play an innovative role for the feet when it comes to designing footwear, injury rehabilitation and understanding bipedalism.
The biomechanics are the cogs behind the gears that manage your feet. If you would like more information, see one of our doctors at New York Foot and Ankle. Our specialists can assess and provide in-depth information as well as measure your personal foot biomechanics.
A History of Biomechanics
- Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
- In 1974 biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination to the area.
Modern technology improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes providing a better understanding of podiatry concepts for biomechanics. Computers provide accurate determinations about the forces, moments and patterns of the foot and lower legs with the most important information captured.
Advances in materials and more awareness of biomechanics have developed enhanced corrective methods, offering further options for foot-related injuries. Understanding foot biomechanics can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.
If you have any questions feel free to contact us at one of our locations in New York. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
Read more about Biomechanics of Podiatry.
Obesity Causing Limb Amputation Epidemic in Scotland
According to new data from the United Kingdom’s National Health Service, about one hundred Scottish citizens have limbs amputated every month due to health conditions they developed as a result of being obese. The most common of these conditions are peripheral vascular disorder and type 2 diabetes, which can both be caused by the same lack of exercise and a healthy diet that cause people to become overweight.
These hand and foot amputations are costing the NHS about $82 million a year, way more than the public healthcare sector is able to afford. Those who lose limbs are also entitled to cost-of-living benefits, a $46 million annual expense for the government.
While obesity can sometimes result in the drastic consequence of amputation, this condition is also known for causing many other less life-threatening foot and ankle problems. If you’re an obese individual and you’re concerned about your feet, talk to one of our doctors at New York Foot and Ankle. Our specialists can determine if your weight has caused you to develop any complications in your lower extremities and get you the care that you need.
Obesity and your Feet
Since your feet are what support your entire weight when standing, any additional weight can result in pain and swelling. Being overweight is one of the main contributors to foot complications.
Problems & Complications
Extra Weight – Even putting on just a few extra pounds could create serious complications for your feet. As your weight increases, your balance and body will shift, creating new stresses on your feet. This uneven weight distribution can cause pain, even while doing the simplest tasks, such as walking.
Diabetes – People who are overweight are at serious risk of developing type-2 diabetes, which has a drastic impact on the health of your feet. As you get older, your diabetes might worsen, which could lead to loss of feeling in your feet, sores, and bruises. You could also become more prone to various infections.
Plantar fasciitis – Pressure and stress that is placed on muscles, joints, and tendons can trigger plantar fasciitis, which is an inflammation of tissue that forms along the bottom of the foot.
For more information about Obesity and Your Feet, follow the link below.
If you have any questions feel free to contact us at one of our locations in New York. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technology to meet your needs.
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