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Walking Shoes Versus Running Shoes and Why the Difference Matters
Walking shoes and running shoes are designed to support different movement patterns and impact levels. Walking involves a smooth rolling motion from heel to toe with consistent ground contact, while running creates greater impact forces that require more cushioning and shock absorption. Walking shoes tend to offer flexibility and support for steady motion, while running shoes provide enhanced cushioning and stability for higher intensity activity. Wearing the wrong type of shoe can lead to foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, shin discomfort, blisters, and joint strain. Choosing the correct footwear helps improve comfort and performance. A podiatrist can assess gait, recommend proper shoes, and provide custom orthotics, if needed. If you have developed foot pain from wearing the wrong shoes for your desired activity, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can offer effective relief tips.
If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Piedmont Podiatry Associates. 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 one of our offices located in Greenville, and Easley, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
When Foot and Ankle Structures Are Not Working as They Should
The foot and ankle are made up of bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments that must work together for smooth movement and balance. When any of these structures are strained, injured, or not aligned properly, pain and limited mobility can follow. Common concerns include tendon irritation, joint stiffness, ligament sprains, and structural changes that develop over time. A careful evaluation helps identify where the problem is coming from, and how it affects the way you walk or stand. This may include examining movement patterns, checking strength and flexibility, and reviewing your activity level and footwear. Treatment depends on the specific cause and may involve rest, supportive devices, targeted exercises, or other non-surgical options. In more advanced cases, additional procedures may be considered to restore function and reduce discomfort. If foot or ankle pain is interfering with daily activity, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Foot Pain
Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Piedmont Podiatry Associates. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.
Causes
Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:
- Bunions
- Hammertoes
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Bone Spurs
- Corns
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Ingrown Toenails
- Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
- Flat Feet
- Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
- And more
Diagnosis
To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Greenville, and Easley, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Burning or Tingling in the Foot Could Be Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by pressure on the posterior tibial nerve as it passes through a narrow space on the inside of the ankle called the tarsal tunnel. This nerve provides sensation to the bottom of the foot, so irritation can cause unusual symptoms. People often describe burning, tingling, numbness, or sharp pain that travels into the heel, arch, or toes. Symptoms may worsen with long periods of standing or walking. The condition can develop after an ankle injury, from swelling in the area, or because of foot structure such as flat feet that place extra pressure on the nerve. Without treatment, nerve irritation may gradually worsen and interfere with daily activities. Early care can help reduce pressure on the nerve and relieve discomfort. If you notice persistent tingling, burning, or numbness in the foot, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, contact one of our podiatrists of Piedmont Podiatry Associates. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.
Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.
Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
- Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
- At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.
The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
- The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
- If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.
A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.
If you have any questions please contact one of our offices located in Greenville, and Easley, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Ankle Replacement Surgery and Recovery
Ankle replacement surgery is designed to remove damaged ankle joint surfaces and replace them with artificial components to restore movement and reduce pain. It is often needed when severe arthritis or joint degeneration limits mobility and daily function. The surgery involves reshaping the bones and inserting prosthetic parts that allow smoother joint motion. Causes leading to this procedure include advanced arthritis, previous fractures, or chronic joint wear. Risk factors include aging, obesity, and prior ankle injuries. A podiatrist plays an important role by diagnosing joint damage, recommending treatment options, and guiding recovery and rehabilitation. If you have chronic ankle pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can determine if this type of foot surgery is right for you.
Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists of Piedmont Podiatry Associates. 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 one of our offices located in Greenville, and Easley, SC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
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