Month: October 2015

Brooks Running Shoes

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Brooks Running Shoes are a popular running shoe.

Brooks running shoes are widely recognized for their focus on performance, comfort, and injury prevention. The brand has built its reputation by centering on running-specific footwear, rather than branching heavily into lifestyle or casual sneakers. Their shoes are known for cushioning technologies like DNA Loft and BioMoGo DNA, which adapt to a runner’s stride and weight, offering both softness and responsiveness. This combination makes Brooks a go-to option for both beginners seeking comfort and seasoned athletes looking for durability in training and racing.

One standout feature of Brooks shoes is their emphasis on biomechanics and injury prevention. For example, the “GuideRails” system found in models like the Brooks Adrenaline GTS helps reduce excessive foot movement by gently aligning knees, hips, and joints. Unlike traditional stability shoes that aggressively correct pronation, this system supports a more natural gait while still offering protection. Such innovations are why Brooks shoes are often recommended by podiatrists and physical therapists for runners prone to joint or alignment issues.

In terms of variety, Brooks caters to different running needs. Neutral runners often gravitate toward models like the Ghost or Glycerin, which emphasize plush cushioning and smooth transitions. Stability seekers, on the other hand, tend to favor the Adrenaline GTS or the Transcend, which combine support features with high cushioning. Trail runners aren’t left out either, with options like the Brooks Cascadia delivering rugged grip, protection, and durability on uneven terrain. This diverse lineup ensures that nearly every runner can find a shoe tailored to their unique stride and environment.

Beyond performance, Brooks also maintains a strong emphasis on sustainability and comfort. Many of their newer models incorporate recycled materials in the uppers and midsoles, reducing environmental impact without sacrificing durability. The shoes are also praised for their consistent sizing and fit, which makes choosing a Brooks model relatively risk-free compared to brands with more variable fits. Altogether, Brooks running shoes balance technology, support, and eco-consciousness, making them a reliable choice for runners at all levels.

Most Useful Resources:
Brooks Running Shoes (Podiatry TV)
Brooks Running Shoes (PodiaPaedia)
Brooks (Foot Health Forum)

Best Running Shoes

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There is not really such thing as the best running shoes. Each runners has individual needs and individual response to running shoes, so there will be a best running shoe for each runner and it will not be the same running shoes.

When choosing the best running shoe, the most important factor is understanding your foot type and gait. Everyone’s biomechanics are different—some runners overpronate (feet roll inward), some supinate (feet roll outward), while others have a more neutral stride. Many running stores offer gait analysis, either by watching your stride on a treadmill or analyzing your footprint, to help you figure this out. Knowing your gait will guide you toward stability shoes (for overpronation), neutral shoes (for balanced gait), or cushioned shoes (often better for supination). This ensures that the shoe supports your natural movement, reducing the risk of injury.

Another key consideration is the terrain you’ll be running on. Road running shoes are built lighter and smoother, designed for pavement and treadmill surfaces. Trail running shoes, on the other hand, have deeper lugs and stronger traction to handle dirt, rocks, and uneven paths, with added protection for your feet. If you plan to mix both environments, a hybrid shoe might be a good compromise. Picking the right shoe for your terrain will not only make your runs more comfortable but also extend the life of your shoes since they’ll be suited to the surfaces you’re training on.

Comfort should always be at the top of your list when selecting a running shoe. Look for a fit that leaves about a thumb’s width of space in front of your longest toe and a snug, but not tight, feel around the midfoot and heel. The upper material should feel breathable and flexible, moving naturally with your foot. Trying on shoes later in the day, when your feet are slightly swollen, gives you a better sense of how they’ll feel during a run. Don’t be tempted by trends or looks alone—a shoe that feels natural and supportive is far more important than style.

Lastly, consider cushioning and durability based on your running goals. If you’re training for long distances, a shoe with more cushioning can help absorb impact and reduce fatigue. For speed workouts or races, lightweight and responsive shoes may give you the edge. Pay attention to the shoe’s expected mileage—most running shoes last around 300–500 miles before losing their supportive structure. Rotating between two pairs can help extend their life and keep your body adapting. By matching your shoe choice with your running style, terrain, and goals, you’ll maximize comfort, performance, and injury prevention.

Most Useful Resources:
Best Running Shoes (PodiaPaedia)
Best Running Shoes (Foot Health Forum)
The ‘Best Running Shoe’? (Podiatry Ninja)
The Best Running Shoe (The Best Running Shoe Blog)

Anterior Compartment Syndrome

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Anterior Compartment Syndrome occurs during sport when the muscle size expands from the activity and the tightness of the fascial sheath around the muscles prevents the muscle expanding resulting in pain.

Anterior compartment syndrome is a condition often seen in runners, characterized by increased pressure within the anterior compartment of the lower leg. This area contains muscles such as the tibialis anterior, extensor hallucis longus, and extensor digitorum longus, along with blood vessels and nerves. When runners engage in repetitive, high-impact activities, swelling or bleeding can occur within this enclosed space, elevating intracompartmental pressure. Because the fascia surrounding the muscles is non-elastic, the pressure can compromise circulation and nerve function, leading to significant pain and dysfunction.

There are two main forms relevant to runners: acute compartment syndrome and chronic exertional compartment syndrome (CECS). Acute compartment syndrome is a medical emergency, usually arising from trauma like a fracture, and requires immediate surgical intervention. Chronic exertional compartment syndrome, on the other hand, is more common in runners and develops gradually during physical activity. Symptoms often include a dull, aching pain in the shin area that worsens with running, along with possible numbness, tingling, or weakness in the foot. Pain typically subsides after rest, distinguishing it from more urgent acute cases.

The underlying mechanism in CECS is thought to involve muscle expansion during exercise, which increases compartment pressure beyond what the fascia can accommodate. This impedes blood flow and compresses nerves, resulting in the hallmark pain and neurological symptoms. Risk factors for runners include overtraining, improper footwear, and running on hard or uneven surfaces. Biomechanical factors such as overpronation or muscle imbalances may also contribute to the development of the syndrome, making it a multifactorial condition.

Management strategies depend on severity. Conservative approaches include activity modification, gait retraining, physiotherapy, and shoe adjustments to reduce repetitive strain. However, these measures may provide only temporary relief for some athletes. In refractory cases, surgical fasciotomy, which involves releasing the fascia to relieve pressure, may be necessary and has shown high success rates in returning athletes to sport. Early recognition is critical, as untreated compartment syndrome—especially the acute form—can result in permanent muscle and nerve damage.

Most Useful Resources:
Anterior Compartment Syndrome (PodiaPaedia)
Effects of forefoot running on chronic exertional compartment syndrome (Podiatry Arena)
Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome (Podiatry Arena)
Should we transition all anterior compartment syndromes to forefoot striking? (Running Research Junkie)
Compartment Syndrome of the Anterior Leg in Runners (Runners Space)
Compartment Syndrome (Foot Health Forum)

Baxters Nerve Entrapment

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Baxter nerve entrapment is a cause of heel pain with the symptoms often mimicking plantar fasciitis and should be conisdered in any case of heel pain the has a neurological component to it.

Baxter’s nerve entrapment, also known as inferior calcaneal nerve entrapment, is a relatively common but often overlooked cause of chronic heel pain. The Baxter’s nerve is the first branch of the lateral plantar nerve, and it runs beneath the abductor hallucis muscle before traveling along the medial side of the heel. Because of its position, it is vulnerable to compression as it passes between surrounding structures, particularly the abductor hallucis and the medial calcaneal tuberosity. This entrapment can mimic or coexist with plantar fasciitis, which is why it is frequently misdiagnosed.

The clinical presentation of Baxter’s nerve entrapment usually involves sharp, burning, or radiating pain on the inside of the heel that may worsen with prolonged standing, walking, or running. Unlike classic plantar fasciitis, which is typically most painful during the first steps in the morning, Baxter’s nerve pain can persist throughout the day and sometimes worsens with activity. Patients may also report tingling or numbness along the heel or arch, as the compressed nerve is both sensory and motor. Chronic cases can even lead to weakness of the abductor digiti quinti muscle in the foot.

Risk factors and causes often include repetitive overuse in runners, foot deformities such as flat feet or overpronation, and tightness of the abductor hallucis muscle. External factors, like ill-fitting shoes or excessive standing on hard surfaces, can also contribute to entrapment. In many athletes, the combination of repetitive heel impact and biomechanical stress creates a perfect environment for irritation of the nerve. Because these symptoms overlap with plantar fasciitis, imaging such as MRI or ultrasound, along with careful physical examination, is usually needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment strategies for Baxter’s nerve entrapment focus on reducing nerve compression and inflammation. Conservative options include rest, orthotic devices to correct foot mechanics, stretching of the calf and abductor hallucis, and targeted physical therapy. Anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections may be used in persistent cases. For patients who do not respond to conservative care, surgical decompression of the nerve can be considered, which generally provides significant relief. Early recognition is important, as untreated entrapment can lead to chronic heel pain and functional limitations.

Most Useful Resources:
Baxters Nerve Entrapment (PodiaPaedia)
Baxter’s Neuritis (Medial Calcaneal Nerve Neuritis) (Podiatry Arena)
Baxter’s neuropathy secondary to plantar fasciitis (Podiatry Arena)
Baxters Nerve Entrapment (Podiatry TV)
Baxters nerve or plantar fasciitis? (Podiatry Experts)
Baxters Nerve Entrapment (Foot Health Forum)

Barefoot Science

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Barefoot Science is a foot strengthening insole system that has been widely criticized for the lack of science that supports them; the unsubstantiated claims they make; and the claims they make that are contradicted by the evidence.

Most Useful Resources:
Barefoot Science (PodiaPaedia)
Barefoot Science (Podiatry Arena)
Barefoot Science Foot Strengthening System (Podiatry Arena)
What about Barefoot science insoles? (Podiatry Experts)
‘Barefoot Science’ Insoles (Running Research Junkie)
Barefoot Science (Foot Health Forum)

Barefoot Running Shoes

Posted on by Staff

Barefoot running shoes are those shoes with such minimal construction that they do not interfere with what would be considered barefoot function. At there simplest, they are simply fabric coverings of the foot.

Most Useful Resources:
Barefoot Running Shoes (PodiaPaedia)
Barefoot Running Shoes (Barefoot Running Shoes Store)

Barefoot Running

Posted on by Staff

Barefoot running was a fad a few years ago. It was somewhat controversial due to all the claims that were made for. It turned out once the science was done, the benefits were just not there and runners have lost interest in it.

The rise of barefoot running in the early 2000s was fueled by a combination of scientific curiosity, popular books, and a cultural push toward “natural” movement. Christopher McDougall’s 2009 book Born to Run popularized the idea that running without traditional shoes could reduce injuries and improve efficiency, drawing inspiration from the Tarahumara people of Mexico who run long distances barefoot or in simple sandals. Advocates argued that modern cushioned shoes altered human biomechanics, encouraging heel striking and leading to injuries. The minimalist footwear industry quickly emerged, with brands like Vibram introducing “five-finger” shoes designed to mimic barefoot mechanics.

At its peak, barefoot running became something of a movement, with runners experimenting in marathons, track workouts, and even everyday training. Research showed that running barefoot promoted a forefoot or midfoot strike, which reduced impact forces compared to heel striking in cushioned shoes. This fueled excitement among enthusiasts who believed they had found a more “natural” and injury-proof way to run. Major shoe companies joined the trend by releasing minimalist shoe lines, such as Nike Free and New Balance Minimus, aiming to capture the growing interest while still offering some protection.

However, the fall of barefoot running began as injuries started to surface among runners who transitioned too quickly. Many recreational runners adopted minimalist shoes without adequately strengthening their feet and lower legs, leading to stress fractures, plantar fasciitis, and calf strain. Studies emerged questioning whether barefoot running actually reduced injury rates compared to traditional shoes, with evidence suggesting that the benefits were highly individual and depended on a careful, gradual transition. High-profile lawsuits, such as the one against Vibram in 2012 for misleading injury-prevention claims, further tarnished the movement’s credibility.

By the mid-2010s, barefoot running had largely lost its mainstream appeal. Most runners and shoe companies shifted back toward more cushioned, supportive designs, though the experience left a lasting mark on the industry. Today, while barefoot running still has a niche following among enthusiasts, its broader legacy is the push toward lighter, more flexible footwear and a greater awareness of running form. In that sense, the rise and fall of barefoot running reshaped how runners, coaches, and companies think about biomechanics, injury prevention, and the balance between natural movement and technological support

Most Useful Resources:
Podiatry and Barefoot Running (PodiaPaedia)
Barefoot Running Threads (Podiatry Arena)
Barefoot Running (Podiatry TV)
Barefoot Running (Foot Health Forum)
What evidence is there that ‘barefoot’ running is better to reduce injury risk? (Running Research Junkie)
Barefoot Running is Bad (Barefoot Running is Bad)
My Advice for Barefoot Running Injury (Running Injury Advice)

Ball of Foot Pain

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Pain in the ball of the foot can be many different things, ranging from a plantar plate dysfunction, to a stress fracture to a mortons neuroma. Sometime the differential is easy and sometimes it is difficult. Getting it right is so important as each cause of ball-of-foot-pain has a different treatment.

Ball of foot pain, medically known as metatarsalgia, is a common condition characterized by discomfort or aching in the area between the arch and toes. This region, called the metatarsal area, absorbs a significant portion of the body’s weight during walking, running, or standing. When this part of the foot becomes irritated or overloaded, it can lead to sharp, burning, or aching pain that often worsens with activity. Many people describe the sensation as if they are walking on a small pebble.

The causes of ball of foot pain are varied. High-impact activities like running or sports that involve jumping put extra stress on the metatarsals. Ill-fitting footwear, particularly shoes with high heels or narrow toe boxes, can also compress the forefoot and contribute to the problem. Additionally, structural foot issues such as high arches, hammertoes, or bunions may shift pressure onto the ball of the foot. In some cases, medical conditions like arthritis, gout, or a neuroma (nerve inflammation) may be underlying factors.

Treatment for metatarsalgia typically starts with conservative approaches. Resting the foot, applying ice, and wearing supportive footwear with cushioned insoles can provide relief. Orthotic inserts are often used to redistribute pressure more evenly across the foot. Stretching exercises, particularly those targeting the calf and Achilles tendon, may also reduce strain on the forefoot. For persistent pain, a podiatrist may recommend physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, or, in rare cases, surgery to correct structural imbalances.

Preventing ball of foot pain largely depends on footwear and lifestyle adjustments. Choosing shoes with adequate cushioning, a wide toe box, and low heels can reduce pressure on the metatarsals. Maintaining a healthy weight helps minimize stress on the feet, while proper training techniques and gradual increases in exercise intensity can lower the risk of overuse injuries. Because metatarsalgia can sometimes signal an underlying biomechanical or medical issue, persistent pain should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to ensure the best treatment plan.

Most Useful Resources:
Ball of Foot Pain (PodiaPaedia)
Pain on the Ball of the Foot (Foot Health Friday)
Ball of Foot Pain (Foot Health Forum)

Autism and Podiatry

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What has Autism to do with podiatry? Several things: gait abnormalities are an early sign of autism; and those with autism get foot problem just like anyone else, so Podiatrists need to be familiar with autism.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how individuals perceive and interact with the world. It’s called a spectrum because it presents a wide range of symptoms and severity levels. Some individuals may have significant challenges with communication and behavior, while others might be highly verbal and intellectually capable but struggle with social nuances. ASD typically shows signs in early childhood, often before age 3, and tends to persist throughout life. Common early indicators include delayed speech, limited eye contact, and repetitive behaviors like hand-flapping or lining up objects.

The causes of ASD are not fully understood, but research points to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Certain genes appear to increase the risk, and changes in brain development may also play a role. While vaccines have been falsely linked to autism in the past, extensive studies have consistently debunked this claim. It’s also important to note that ASD isn’t caused by parenting or social factors. Advances in brain imaging and genetics are helping researchers uncover more about how ASD develops, but there’s still a lot to learn.

Support for individuals with ASD often includes a combination of therapies and interventions, depending on the person’s specific needs. Behavioral therapies, especially Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, and social skills training are common. In some cases, medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms like anxiety, hyperactivity, or sleep problems. Importantly, many people on the spectrum lead fulfilling, independent lives, especially when diagnosed early and supported appropriately. Understanding and acceptance from family, schools, and communities can make a huge difference in quality of life.

Most Useful Resources:
Autism (PodiaPaedia)
Autism Threads (Podiatry Arena)
Gait analysis to identify autism (Podiatry Arena)
History of Autism (World of History)
Autism (Foot Health Forum)
Autism’s False Prophets: Bad Science, Risky Medicine, and the Search for a Cure (PodiaPaedia)

Austin Bunionectomy

Posted on by Staff

The Austin Bunionectomy is a common procedure done the deformity in bunions. Initially the “bump” or excessive bone from the side of the first metatarsal head is removed. Then a “V-shaped” cut is done through the metatarsal head to re position the bone.

The Austin Bunionectomy, also known as the Chevron Osteotomy, is a common surgical procedure used to correct mild to moderate bunions. A bunion, medically referred to as hallux valgus, occurs when the big toe drifts toward the second toe, causing a bony bump to form on the inside of the foot. This misalignment not only creates cosmetic concerns but can also lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty wearing shoes. The Austin Bunionectomy focuses on realigning the big toe joint by reshaping the first metatarsal bone.

During the procedure, the surgeon makes an incision along the inside of the foot near the big toe joint. A V-shaped (chevron) cut is then made in the head of the first metatarsal bone, allowing the surgeon to shift the bone laterally (toward the outside of the foot). This repositioning helps realign the joint and reduce the prominence of the bunion. To secure the correction, the bone fragments are typically stabilized with small screws, pins, or other fixation devices. The soft tissues around the joint may also be adjusted to further improve alignment.

The recovery process after an Austin Bunionectomy usually takes several weeks to months, depending on the individual’s healing rate and the extent of the correction. Patients are often able to bear weight on the foot shortly after surgery using a special surgical shoe or boot. Swelling and discomfort are common in the first few weeks, but physical therapy and careful adherence to post-operative instructions can significantly improve outcomes. Most patients can return to normal footwear and activities within 6 to 8 weeks, though complete healing may take up to a year.

The benefits of the Austin Bunionectomy include pain relief, improved joint alignment, and better shoe comfort. However, like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks, such as infection, recurrence of the bunion, stiffness in the big toe, or delayed bone healing. It is generally recommended for patients with mild to moderate bunions who have not found relief through conservative measures such as orthotics, padding, or lifestyle modifications. Overall, the Austin Bunionectomy is considered a reliable and effective surgical option for restoring function and comfort to individuals affected by bunions.

Most Useful Resources:
Austin Bunionectomy (PodiaPaedia)
Austin Bunionectomy (Podiatry Arena)
Austin Bunionectomy (Podiatry TV)
Austin Bunionectomy (Foot Health Forum)