Author: Staff

PediRoller

Posted on by Staff

This is a massage tool with ribs or ridges that you roll the foot over. It was designed by a podiatrist. Many people find it helpful for plantar fasciitis and those feet that are tired at the end of the day.

The PediRoller is a compact, cylindrical foot massager specifically designed to relieve foot pain and discomfort, particularly associated with plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and general foot fatigue. It’s made from firm yet slightly flexible materials, often rubber or medical-grade plastic, and features ridges or grooves along the surface. These textural details help stimulate circulation and gently stretch the plantar fascia when the foot is rolled over the device. Its small, portable design makes it easy to use at home, at work, or even while traveling.

Functionally, the PediRoller works through the principles of myofascial release and acupressure. By applying body weight through the foot onto the roller, users can achieve targeted massage that eases tension in the arch, heel, and ball of the foot. Some versions can be chilled in a freezer, adding a cold therapy component to reduce inflammation and soothe aching tissues. This dual function—massage and cryotherapy—makes the PediRoller particularly effective as a non-invasive and drug-free tool for managing chronic foot issues.

Using the PediRoller is straightforward: it’s typically recommended to roll each foot for about 5–10 minutes daily, either seated or standing (depending on the desired pressure). It’s also often incorporated into rehabilitation routines by physiotherapists to improve flexibility and strength in the feet. While it doesn’t replace medical treatment for severe conditions, the PediRoller offers a simple, accessible way for users to engage in daily foot care, making it a favorite among runners, teachers, and anyone who spends a lot of time on their feet.

Using the Pediroller.

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Most Useful Resources:
Does the PediRoller massager really help?
Buy the PediRoller 
Self Massage for Plantar Fasciitis (Plantar heel pain)
Foam rolling for plantar fasciitis
What does the science supporting foam rolling say?

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Bunion Correctors

Posted on by Staff

Bunion correctors are devices designed to help alleviate the discomfort and misalignment caused by bunions—a common foot deformity where the big toe shifts inward, creating a bony bump on the side of the foot. These correctors come in various forms, including splints, sleeves, toe spacers, and braces, and they’re typically worn at night or during non-weight-bearing activities. While they don’t reverse the underlying bone structure permanently, they can gently realign the toe, reduce pressure on the joint, and provide pain relief.

The effectiveness of bunion correctors largely depends on the severity of the bunion and the type of device used. For mild to moderate bunions, correctors can be quite beneficial in slowing the progression and improving comfort. They work by holding the toe in a more natural position, stretching tight tendons and relieving pressure on inflamed areas. Some models also provide cushioning, which helps prevent the bunion from rubbing against shoes—especially useful for people who are on their feet a lot.

That said, bunion correctors are not a cure-all. They do not permanently fix the misalignment since they don’t alter the bone structure—only surgery can do that. However, when used consistently, especially alongside other measures like proper footwear, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes, they can make a noticeable difference in symptoms. In many cases, people use them to delay or avoid surgery, or to maintain post-surgical alignment.

Choosing the right bunion corrector involves considering comfort, fit, and intended use. Some are soft and flexible for nighttime wear, while others are more rigid for better realignment. It’s important to look for breathable materials and adjustable features to ensure a good fit. People with sensitive skin or circulation issues should consult a podiatrist before using them. In short, bunion correctors are a non-invasive, low-risk option that can offer real relief—just as long as expectations are realistic.

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Most Useful Resources:
Do bunion correctors work?
Do Bunion Correctors Work?
Do the “Bunion Correctors” actually work?
The Bunion Correctors
Bunion corrector gullibility
The bunion correctors – do they work?

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Archie Arch Support Thongs

Posted on by Staff

These are a uniquely Australian product where they call flip flops thongs! They are popular and widely used. Many podiatry clinics stock and sell the arch support thongs

Archie Arch Support Thongs

They are most widely used as they are just comfortable, but also used as an alternative and adjunct to using foot orthotics.

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Most Useful Resources:
Thongs … only in Australia 
Archies Thongs
Archies Thongs are selling themselves
Archies Arch Support Thongs
Archies Arch Support Thongs
What about the Archies arch support thongs?
Are the Archies Footwear good for your feet?
Arch Supporting Flip Flops
Archies Footwear 

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The Short Foot Exercise

Posted on by Staff

The short foot exercise is a neuromuscular strengthening technique primarily targeting the intrinsic muscles of the foot—specifically those responsible for supporting the medial longitudinal arch (like the abductor hallucis). The goal is to “shorten” the foot by contracting the arch without curling the toes or lifting the heel. This activation essentially draws the ball of the foot toward the heel, improving the dynamic stability and control of the arch. It’s subtle but powerful. Over time, this can enhance foot posture, balance, and even improve kinetic chain mechanics up through the ankle, knee, and hip.

How to do it? Sit or stand with your foot flat on the ground. Without curling your toes, gently press the tips of your toes into the floor and try to pull the base of your big toe toward your heel. You should feel a slight elevation in your arch. Hold that position for 5–10 seconds, then relax. Repeat for 8–12 reps per foot, progressing from seated to standing, and eventually to single-leg stance for added challenge. It’s important not to let the toes grip or over-flex—this would recruit the wrong muscles and defeat the purpose of isolating the intrinsics.

This exercise is especially valuable for people with flat feet, plantar fasciitis, or postural instability. It’s also increasingly used by athletes looking to fine-tune proprioception and balance. Over time, consistent short foot work can contribute to stronger arches, reduced foot fatigue, and better overall alignment. That said, it’s not a magic fix on its own. For best results, combine it with broader foot and ankle mobility drills, proper footwear choices, and gradual strength training to reinforce the whole lower limb system.

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Most Useful Resources:
Short Foot Exercise (Podiatry Arena)
Short Foot Exercise (PodiaPaedia)

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Supination Resistance

Posted on by Staff

Supination Resistance is a concept of determining the force needed to supinate the foot. This is considered important in foot orthotic prescribing as it is helpful to determine how much force if needed from the foot orthotic if the foot is overpronating.

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Supination resistance refers to the amount of force required to supinate (invert) the foot around the subtalar joint during gait or clinical testing. It’s a key concept in biomechanics and podiatry, because it helps clinicians understand how easily or how much effort it takes for a person’s foot to resupinate during walking or running. Normally, after the foot pronates during stance phase (to absorb shock and adapt to the ground), it needs to resupinate for effective propulsion. If the foot has high supination resistance, it means a lot of force is required to achieve this motion, potentially leading to inefficient gait mechanics and increased risk for overuse injuries.

Several factors influence supination resistance, including the alignment of the subtalar joint, midtarsal joint mobility, body weight, and even soft tissue flexibility. For instance, individuals with a medially deviated subtalar joint axis often have higher supination resistance because ground reaction forces act more medially, increasing the lever arm for pronatory forces. Conversely, someone with a more laterally placed subtalar axis may have lower resistance. Clinically, high supination resistance is often associated with persistent pronation, flat feet (pes planus), and conditions like posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, while low supination resistance may correlate with rigid high-arched feet (pes cavus) that don’t adapt well to ground surfaces.

Understanding supination resistance is important for treatment planning, especially when prescribing foot orthotics. Patients with high supination resistance may need orthotics that provide more aggressive arch support or medial posting to control pronation. On the other hand, for those with low resistance, excessive correction can actually destabilize the foot. Some clinicians use devices like a supination resistance meter, but often manual testing provides sufficient clinical information. Ultimately, evaluating supination resistance helps personalize interventions, optimize gait, and reduce injury risk.

Most Useful Resources:
https://podiapaedia.org/wiki/biomechanics/clinical-biomechanics/concepts/supination-resistance/ (PodiaPaedia)
https://podiatryarena.com/index.php?articles/supination-resistance.1/ (Podiatry Arena)
https://podiatryarena.com/index.php?tags/supination-resistance/ (Podiatry Arena)
http://www.runresearchjunkie.com/the-concept-of-supination-resistance/ (Running Research Junkie)
http://www.podiatryfaq.com/supination-resistance/ (Podiatry FAQ)
http://www.ipodiatry.org/the-concept-of-supination-resistance/13688 (iPodiatry)

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Pearl Izumi Running Shoes

Posted on by Staff

Pearl Izumi Running Shoes. In mid 2016, they announced that they were withdrawing from the running shoe market.

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Pearl Izumi is a brand that originally built its reputation in the cycling world but later expanded into running shoes with a unique approach. Unlike many mainstream running shoe brands that focus on maximal cushioning or aggressive stability features, Pearl Izumi’s running shoes emphasized a concept they called the “Dynamic Offset” system. This design promoted a smooth transition from heel strike to toe-off, aiming to encourage a natural, efficient gait cycle. Their shoes often featured seamless uppers, moderate cushioning, and a more fluid ride that appealed to runners looking for a balance between minimalism and support.

One standout in their lineup was the EM (E-Motion) series, which included models like the Road N2 and Trail M2. These shoes catered to various types of runners, from road racers to trail enthusiasts. The E-Motion technology offered a rolling sensation that many described as almost propulsive, helping to reduce fatigue on longer runs. Pearl Izumi’s trail models, in particular, were praised for their durability, reliable grip, and ability to handle a variety of terrain while still feeling light and responsive underfoot. The brand developed a small but loyal following among runners who appreciated this distinctive feel.

Unfortunately, despite their technical strengths and niche following, Pearl Izumi decided to exit the running shoe market in 2016 to refocus entirely on cycling apparel and gear. This left many devoted fans disappointed, as they had come to value the brand’s unique take on running shoe design. Today, Pearl Izumi running shoes are no longer produced, but they still pop up occasionally on secondary markets, cherished by those who miss their smooth ride and thoughtful engineering. The legacy of Pearl Izumi’s running shoes remains a testament to innovative design in an industry often dominated by bigger players.

Most Useful Resources:
Pearl Izumi (PodiaPaedia)
Pearl Izumi Shoes (Podiatry Online TV)

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Peroneal Spastic Flatfoot

Posted on by Staff

Peroneal Spastic Flatfoot (PSF) is a condition characterized by a rigid flatfoot accompanied by spasms of the peroneal muscles, which run along the outside of the lower leg and ankle. Unlike flexible flatfoot, where the arch can still appear when non-weight-bearing, PSF involves a fixed or stiff flattening of the medial longitudinal arch. The spasm of the peroneal tendons contributes to the foot being held in an everted (outward-turned) position, limiting normal motion of the subtalar joint. This condition is often painful, especially during walking or weight-bearing activities, and may severely limit mobility if left untreated.

The underlying causes of PSF are often linked to tarsal coalition, which is an abnormal fusion between two or more of the bones in the hindfoot (commonly the talus and calcaneus). This abnormal bony connection restricts normal joint movement, leading to compensatory muscle spasms, particularly of the peroneal muscles, as the body tries to stabilize the foot. Trauma, inflammatory conditions, or idiopathic (unknown) factors may also trigger PSF. In some cases, patients may initially present with vague ankle pain or recurrent ankle sprains before the flatfoot deformity and peroneal spasm become evident.

Diagnosis of Peroneal Spastic Flatfoot typically involves a combination of physical examination, imaging studies, and clinical history. On examination, the foot appears flat and rigid, and attempts to invert the foot (turn it inward) may trigger pain or muscle spasms. Radiographs can reveal bony abnormalities like tarsal coalitions, while advanced imaging such as CT or MRI may be necessary for detailed evaluation. Sometimes, a diagnostic injection of local anesthetic into the subtalar joint can temporarily relieve the spasm, confirming the joint’s involvement and helping guide treatment decisions.

Treatment for PSF often starts conservatively with rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and orthotic devices to support the arch and reduce muscle spasm. If conservative measures fail, more invasive treatments such as immobilization in a cast or injection therapy may be considered. In cases where tarsal coalition or another structural abnormality is present, surgical intervention might be necessary to either resect the coalition or realign the foot. Postoperative rehabilitation plays a crucial role in restoring mobility and function. Early diagnosis and intervention are important to prevent long-term disability and chronic pain.

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Most Useful Resources:
Peroneal Spastic Flatfoot (Podiatry Arena)
Peroneal Spastic Flatfoot (PodiaPaedia)
Peroneal Spastic Flatfoot (Foot Health Forum)

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Metatarsalgia

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Metatarsalgia is a ‘waste bucket’ term that means pain in the forefoot or metatarsal region. It could be any number of things such as sesamoiditis, plantar plate dysfunction or a mortons neuroma

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Metatarsalgia is a general term that refers to pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot, specifically around the metatarsal heads—the bones just behind the toes. This condition often feels like a sharp, aching, or burning pain in the forefoot, especially during activities like walking, running, or even just standing for long periods. Many people describe it as feeling like there’s a pebble in their shoe or that they’re walking on a bruise. It typically develops over time due to repetitive stress rather than a single traumatic event.

There are a variety of causes and contributing factors for metatarsalgia. Improper footwear—like high heels or shoes with a narrow toe box—can concentrate pressure on the metatarsals. High-impact sports, foot deformities (like bunions or hammertoes), tight calf muscles, or having a high arch (pes cavus) can all shift weight abnormally to the forefoot. Additionally, carrying extra weight or experiencing age-related fat pad thinning under the metatarsals can make someone more prone to this condition. Sometimes, metatarsalgia occurs in tandem with other problems like Morton’s neuroma or stress fractures, complicating the diagnosis.

Treatment is usually conservative and focuses on offloading pressure and reducing inflammation. This includes wearing shoes with a wide toe box and cushioned soles, using metatarsal pads or custom orthotics to redistribute weight, and modifying activities to avoid prolonged standing or high-impact movements. Ice, NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), and stretching exercises—especially for the Achilles tendon and calf—can also help. In rare, persistent cases, surgical intervention may be considered to correct anatomical issues or relieve nerve compression. Early management is key to preventing chronic pain and long-term changes in gait.

Most Useful Resources:
Metatarsalgia (Podiatry Arena)
Metatarsalgia (PodiaPaedia)
Metatarsalgia (Foot Health Forum)
M is for Metatarsalgia (Podiatry ABC)
Metatarsalgia (Best Running Shoes)

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Multiple Sclerosis

Posted on by Staff

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, often unpredictable disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS)—which includes the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. It’s classified as an autoimmune disorder, meaning the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. In the case of MS, the immune system targets the myelin sheath, a protective layer that surrounds nerve fibers. This damage disrupts the normal flow of electrical signals in the CNS, leading to a wide variety of neurological symptoms. Depending on where the damage occurs, symptoms can include numbness, vision problems, muscle weakness, balance issues, fatigue, or even cognitive changes.

The course of MS can vary dramatically from person to person. There are a few main types: relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) is the most common and involves clear flare-ups (relapses) followed by periods of recovery (remission). Others may experience secondary progressive MS (SPMS), where the disease gradually worsens over time, or primary progressive MS (PPMS), which is progressive from the start without distinct relapses. The exact cause of MS isn’t fully understood, but it’s thought to involve a mix of genetic predisposition and environmental triggers—like certain viruses (e.g., Epstein-Barr), low vitamin D levels, and possibly smoking. MS is more common in women and often starts between the ages of 20 and 40.

Treatment focuses on managing symptoms, modifying the disease course, and improving quality of life. Disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) are the cornerstone for many patients—they help reduce the frequency and severity of relapses and slow progression. These drugs include injectable medications, oral pills, and infusion-based therapies. Alongside that, physical therapy, lifestyle changes (like staying active and managing stress), and medications for specific symptoms (like spasticity or fatigue) all play a role. While there’s currently no cure, ongoing research in immunology, stem cells, and remyelination techniques is offering a lot of hope for better treatments—and maybe even a cure—in the future.

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Most Useful Resources:
Multiple Sclerosis (Podiatry Arena)
Multiple Sclerosis (PodiaPaedia)
Multiple Sclerosis (Foot Health Forum)
Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosis & Management (Podiatry Apps)

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Maximalist Running Shoes

Posted on by Staff

Maximalist running shoes are the antithesis of the fad there was with minimalist running shoes. Maximalist running shoes have lots of padding and other design features added.

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Maximalist running shoes are a distinct category of footwear designed with extra-thick cushioning to provide a plush, protective ride. Unlike minimalist shoes that aim to simulate barefoot running with minimal material between the foot and ground, maximalist shoes go the opposite direction—offering an abundance of foam underfoot. This design is especially popular among long-distance runners, ultramarathoners, and those recovering from injury, thanks to the enhanced shock absorption and reduced impact forces on joints.

One of the key benefits of maximalist shoes is the reduction in perceived fatigue, particularly on hard surfaces and extended runs. The generous midsole often uses lightweight, responsive materials like EVA or newer superfoams, which cushion each step while still returning energy. While some worry this added foam could make the shoe unstable, many models use a wide base or rocker geometry to counteract that, helping maintain a smooth gait and stable transition from heel to toe.

However, maximalist shoes aren’t a perfect fit for everyone. Some runners find that too much cushioning dulls ground feel and responsiveness, making it harder to react quickly or engage the foot’s natural mechanics. For speed workouts or races, many still prefer lighter, lower-profile shoes that feel more agile. Also, runners with certain gait patterns might not benefit from the extra stack height, as it could lead to inefficient stride mechanics or even discomfort over time.

Still, maximalist shoes have carved out a solid niche in the running world. Brands like Hoka One One, Altra, and New Balance have pioneered many innovations in this space, leading to shoes that feel almost cloud-like yet durable enough for hundreds of miles. Whether you’re aiming for ultra distances, recovering from a stress-related injury, or simply craving a softer ride, these shoes offer a compelling, comfort-driven alternative—especially for those who prioritize cushioning over minimalism.

Most Useful Resources:
The maximalist Brooks Transcend Running Shoe (Podiatry Arena)
Maximalist Running Shoes (PodiaPaedia)
Maximalist Running Shoes (Foot Health Forum)
‘Maximalist’ Running …. the new black? (Friday Fitness)
The next maximalist running shoe trend (Foot Health Friday)

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