Choosing the right pair of running shoes is vital for runners of all levels, as it can impact performance and prevent injuries. Understanding the different categories of running shoes can help you find the perfect fit for your needs. First, there are neutral shoes, designed for runners with normal arches who require cushioning and support. Then, stability shoes are ideal for runners with mild to moderate overpronation, providing additional support to help stabilize the foot. For those with severe overpronation or flat feet, motion control shoes offer maximum stability and control to prevent excessive inward rolling of the foot. Additionally, minimalist shoes provide a barefoot-like experience, promoting a natural running gait and strengthening foot muscles. Finally, maximalist shoes feature extra cushioning to absorb impact, making them suitable for long distance runners or those prone to joint pain. By understanding these categories and considering factors, such as foot type and running style, you can find the perfect pair of running shoes to support your fitness goals. If you have developed foot conditions from wearing the wrong type of shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat your specific foot ailment, and guide you on the right type of running shoes to purchase.
If you are a runner, wearing the right running shoe is essential. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists from Crystal Lake 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 office located in Crystal Lake, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
Sever's disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a heel condition affecting children and adolescents during periods of rapid growth. It occurs when the growth plate at the back of the heel bone becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress or tension from activities like running, jumping, or participating in sports. This condition is not a true disease, but is a temporary condition that typically resolves once the growth plate matures and fuses with the rest of the bone. Symptoms of Sever's disease include heel pain, especially during or after physical activity, limping, and discomfort when pressing on the heel. Factors contributing to its development include overuse or excessive strain on the heel bone, tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon, improper footwear, and biomechanical issues, such as flat feet or high arches. It is suggested that any active child that has heel pain be taken to a podiatrist who can expertly diagnose and treat Sever’s disease.
Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see one of our podiatrists from Crystal Lake Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.
Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.
Symptoms
Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.
Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Crystal Lake, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.
The foot is a marvel of engineering, composed of various intricate parts that work together to support our weight, enable movement, and maintain balance. At the front of the foot lies the toes, which provide stability and aid in propulsion during walking and running. Behind the toes is the ball of the foot, where the metatarsal bones and associated muscles and ligaments help absorb shock and distribute weight. Moving towards the back, we encounter the arch of the foot, composed of longitudinal and transverse arches, which provide spring-like support and flexibility. Anchoring the arches is the heel, or calcaneus bone, serving as the foundation of the foot and absorbing the impact of each step. Surrounding these structures are layers of muscles, tendons, and ligaments, which facilitate movement and maintain stability. Understanding the anatomy of the foot is essential for identifying and addressing issues related to foot health and function, ensuring optimal mobility and well-being. If you have any type of foot pain and are interested in learning how understanding foot structure may provide relief tips, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist.
Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.
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 in the area.
Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.
Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Crystal Lake, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
