Many people enjoy running and jogging, and they are aware of the importance of choosing the right running shoe. There are many styles and options available on the market that can make it overwhelming to decide which shoe is right for you.  However, there are basic considerations that can help to make it easier to choose which can be determined by what kind of running you enjoy. Patients who prefer fast running may benefit from wearing a lightweight shoe. Average running on pavements and roads may be accomplished with a normal running shoe. It is also beneficial to have more than one pair of shoes because this may help extend the life of the shoe. If you would like additional information about what style running shoes you should purchase, please consult with a podiatrist.

If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Choosing the Right Running Shoe for Your Foot Type

To increase performance and avoid the risk of injury, it is important to choose the right running shoe based on your foot type. The general design of running shoes revolves around pronation, which is how the ankle rolls from outside to inside when the foot strikes the ground.

• Neutral runners are able to choose from a wide variety of shoes, including minimalist shoes or even going barefoot.
• Runners who overpronate, or experience an over-abundance of ankle rolling, should choose shoes that provide extra motion control and stability.
• Runners who underpronate, or supinate, have feet that have high arches and lack flexibility, preventing shock absorption. They require shoes with more flexibility and cushion.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Cypress Cove, Shellpoint, Naples, and Carlisle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Patients who have chronic pain from specific foot conditions may be interested in learning about a treatment that is known as MLS laser therapy. It is defined as using wavelengths of light to possibly treat joint conditions, and injuries that have occurred to the tendons and ligaments. Additionally, it may help to reduce inflammation. After several treatments of approximately eight minutes each, swelling and pain may be diminished. Research has indicated the benefits of using MLS therapy may include faster healing of sprains, wounds, foot ulcers, and blood circulation may be improved. If you have chronic foot pain and are interested in learning more about MLS therapy, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

MLS Laser Therapy is a successful alternative for treating any pain you may be experiencing related to certain podiatric conditions.  If you are interested in MLS Laser Therapy, consult with one of our podiatrists from APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

MLS Laser Therapy

Multiwave Locked System (MLS) Laser Therapy is a patented, FDA-cleared technology that helps relieve pain and inflammation from a number of podiatric conditions, including:

• Heel Pain
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Sports Injuries
• Wounds
• Achilles Tendonitis
• Arthritis
• Neuropathy
• Neuromas

MLS Laser Therapy is an ideal alternative to surgery and prescription medication, as it has no negative side effects and encourages accelerated healing. Among its many clinical benefits, MLS Laser Therapy also:

• Reduces swelling due to bruising or inflammation
• Blocks pain
• Reduces formation of scar tissue
• Improves nerve function

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Cypress Cove, Shellpoint, Naples, and Carlisle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Walking may not seem to be a complex activity, however, several body functions, structures, and systems need to work together seamlessly to allow a person to walk normally. A person’s gait (way of walking) can be affected by genetic factors, injuries, physical abnormalities or conditions affecting the feet and legs, illnesses, inner ear problems, and age. These abnormal gait patterns may be temporary or permanent, usually falling into one of five categories. When someone drags their feet, or looks stiff while walking, this can indicate a spastic gait. When legs bend inwardly or hit each other during walking, this is known as a scissors gait. If a person’s toes scrape against or point towards the ground, they may have a steppage gait. Moving from side-to-side with short steps is indicative of a waddling gait. A propulsive gait is walking with a stooping, stiff posture, with the head and neck pushed forward. Using state-of-the-art technology, a podiatrist can perform a biomechanical assessment and gait analysis. Custom orthotics and other methods can be used to help improve feet function and ease any associated pain—including treating any underlying foot condition.

If you are having discomfort in your feet and would like to try orthotics, contact one of our podiatrists from APEX Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

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 overarched 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 concern, it is possible to have your podiatrist prescribe custom orthotics. These high-quality inserts are designed to treat problems such as abnormal motion, plantar fasciitis, and severe forms of heel pain. They can even be used to help patients suffering from diabetes by treating foot ulcers and painful calluses and are usually molded to your feet individually, which allows 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 about the possibilities of using orthotics. A podiatrist can determine which type of orthotic is right for you and allow you to take the first steps towards being pain-free.

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Fort Myers, Cypress Cove, Shellpoint, Naples, and Carlisle, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.