Selecting proper footwear for trail running and mountaineering is essential for comfort, performance, and injury prevention. Shoe cushioning choices include high for maximum shock absorption, moderate for a balance of comfort and ground feel, and minimal for a natural, lightweight experience. Energy return is also important, as it helps reduce fatigue during long treks and challenging terrain. Proper fit, traction, and durability are key characteristics for safely navigating uneven or rocky surfaces. A podiatrist can evaluate your foot type, gait, and activity level to recommend the best running shoe for your needs. If you have sustained a foot or ankle injury while running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can provide treatment, and guide you on appropriate shoes to wear. 

You should always make sure your running shoes fit properly in order to avoid injury. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from ABC Podiatry. 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

Improper shoe sizing can cause a myriad of problems for your feet. Shoes that don’t fit you properly can lead to muscular imbalances in your body, which can result in foot, knee, and hip injuries.

Tips for Finding the Right Running Shoe

• Make sure you have a thumb’s width of wiggle room between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe.
• There should be little to no slipping at the heel
• Don’t assume your size in one shoe brand will be your size in another
• Do not lace up your shoes too tightly
• Walk around in the store with your new shoes before you buy them

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

Hammertoe is a deformity where one or more toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, often causing pain and difficulty walking. Flexible hammertoes may respond to noninvasive treatments, but rigid cases often require surgical correction. Common procedures include tenotomy, which involves cutting a tight tendon, tendon lengthening to reduce tension and allow better toe movement, and tendon transfer, which repositions tendons to restore balance and alignment. These techniques are designed to relieve discomfort, correct hammertoe deformity, and improve function. A podiatrist can determine the severity of your condition and recommend the most suitable option. If you struggle with persistent toe pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to explore customized surgical and nonsurgical solutions for long-term relief.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of ABC Podiatry. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Flip-flops are a popular choice for casual wear, but they can cause serious foot problems over time. Most flip-flops offer little to no arch or heel support, which can lead to strain on the feet and ankles. Wearing them for extended periods of time may contribute to plantar fasciitis, heel pain, tendonitis, and flat feet. The lack of stability can also increase the risk of trips and falls. A podiatrist can assess foot health, recommend supportive footwear, and treat pain or injury caused by improper shoe choices. If you are experiencing foot discomfort from wearing flip-flops, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and guide you on appropriate flip-flop choices.

Flip-flops are not always the best choice of footwear. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from ABC Podiatry. Our doctors will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

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; they're 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 regularly 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 that 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.

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

Cracked heels are a common foot concern where the skin surrounding the heel becomes dry, thick, and split due to pressure or dehydration. This condition may result from prolonged standing, wearing open-backed footwear, obesity, or skin disorders such as eczema. Risk factors include aging, poor hydration, and medical conditions like diabetes or thyroid issues. Symptoms often involve dry, rough skin with visible cracks, discomfort, and sometimes bleeding or infection. A podiatrist can treat cracked heels by removing hardened skin, applying healing treatments, and recommending moisturizers or custom orthotics. If you are experiencing pain or difficulty from dry, split heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for relief and appropriate treatment solutions.

If the skin on your feet starts to crack, you may want to see a podiatrist to find treatment. If you have any concerns, contact one of our podiatrists from ABC Podiatry. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Cracked Heels

It is important to moisturize your cracked heels in order to prevent pain, bleeding, and infection. The reason cracked heels form is because the skin on the foot is too dry to support the immense pressure placed on them. When the foot expands, the dry skin on the foot begins to split.

Ways to Help Heal Them

• Invest in a good foot cream
• Try Using Petroleum Jelly
• Ease up on Soaps
• Drink Plenty of Water

Ways to Prevent Cracked Heels

• Moisturize After Showering
• Skip a Shower
• Keep Shower Water Lukewarm
• Don’t Scrub Your Feet

If you are unsure how to proceed in treating cracked heels, seek guidance from a podiatrist. Your doctor will help you with any questions or information you may need. 

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