Linsey Corbin, a pro triathletestresses the importance of her mileage, stating that running barefoot would not make it useful during workouts. However, would consider minimal running on a on and off basis. When Corbin is working out on a grassy, smooth ground, she takes off her regular running shoes and goes barefoot.

"I don't think I could sustain the proper running mileage and type of mileage that I need to do as a professional triathlete with only barefoot running," Corbin said. However, even though many Americans have opted for barefoot running shoes since last year, the trend seems to be going downhill recently. The US accounts for about 4 percent of all minimalist running shoes sold year to date, according to Matt Powell an athletic-shoe analyst for SportsOneSource.  Minimalist and barefoot peaked last year. Most runners are returning to shoes that offer more cushion and stability,” said Powell.

Allowing your body time to adjust properly to barefoot running is essential, and part of this preventative care involves talking to a podiatrist like Dr. Neal Frankel of A Foot & Ankle Centre. Dr. Frankel can advise you on a running regimen, as well as provide information on techniques of barefoot running to help avoid foot pain, heel pain, and injury.

Barefoot Running

The Impact of Barefoot Running

-Running without shoes changes the motion of your running, as most running is done by landing on the heel of the feet.
-Running barefoot requires a different way of running; the landing is done on the front part of the feet.

The Advantages of Barefoot Running

-When running and landing on the front feet, the impact on the feet and ankle is reduced, this can reduce stress injuries.
-It strengthens muscles in the feet and ankles and the lower legs.
-Balance of the body is improved and there is a greater sensory input from the feet to the rest of the body.

The Drawbacks of Barefoot Running

-No protection while running, makes it likely that runners will land on sharp objects and scrapes, bruises and cuts on the feet will result.
-Blisters may form.
-Possibility of plantar fascia problems.
-Risk of getting Achilles tendonitis.

So what can runners do to make barefoot running safe? It’s best to make a slow transition from running shoes to barefoot running. Once the feet begin to adjust, try walking, then jogging and gradually increasing the distance. Minimalist running shoes may also be an option.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Chicago, Lincolnwood, and Oak Brook, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

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A child's feet grow rapidly during the first year, reaching almost half of their adult foot size. This is why podiatrists consider the first year to be the most important in the development of the feet. Proper care at a young age is essential for healthy development.  Since many adult foot ailments develop in childhood, periodic visits to Dr. Frankel and basic foot care can help minimize these problems later in life.

A child’s feet are formed from soft, pliable cartilage which makes them more susceptible to deformities. A young child can be affected by foot conditions such as:

• Intoeing
• Outoeing
• Flat feet
• Warts
• Heel pain

Tips for Parents

Parents can help promote normal, healthy foot development for their baby.

• Examine your baby’s feet regularly.  If you detect any unusual signs, contact your child’s pediatrician or podiatrist right away.
• Encourage exercise.  Lying uncovered allows the baby to kick and move feet and toes freely so not to inhibit normal development.
• Cover feet loosely.  Tight clothing or covers restrict movement.
• Alternate your baby’s position several times a day.  Lying too long in one spot may place unnecessary strain on the feet and legs.

Growing Up

As your baby continues to grow and develop, so will the feet. It may be necessary to change shoe and sock size every few months, as tight-fitting footwear can aggravate preexisting conditions.  After the first steps are taken, you should also carefully observe walking patterns. Intoeing, outoeing, and gait abnormalities can be corrected when they are detected early.

A baby’s feet will carry them throughout life, so it’s important to begin foot care at a young age. Neglecting your child’s foot health invites problems in other parts of the body, such as the back and legs.  Whenever you have questions about your child’s foot health, or if you suspect a problem with the development of your child’s feet, contact our Lincolnwood, Chicago or Oakbrook, IL office.

Summer sandals are extremely popular to wear in the warmer months not only because of their stylish appearance, but also to allow your feet to breathe after having them closed up all winter. However, the constant wearing of flip flops and sandals can be very damaging to your feet causing problems to them in the long run.

According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, flip flops do not offer a lot of support for the feet. With no straps around the ankle, the joint stays unsecured. Doctors also advise to not wear flip flops for extended periods of time. “Use it wisely. A few hours here and there” said Dr. Larry Ketner, a podiatrist currently studying this case from Peru.

Speaking to a podiatrist like Dr. Neal Frankel of A Foot & Ankle Centre will help you better understand the steps you can take to ensure that your feet stay healthy while wearing flip flops.

Flip-Flops and Feet

How Can Flip-Flops Affect Me Long-Term?

· Ankle problems
· Hip problems
· Lower back problems
· Changes in the way you walk

Are there injuries associated with flip-flops?

· 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 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; make sure you are purchasing your flip-flops from a respected brand too. Replacing your flip-flops every 3-4 months is suggested to provide maximum support and protection for your feet.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Chicago, Lincolnwood, and Oak Brook, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle injuries.

Read more on Flips-Flops and Feet.

Summer is quickly approaching and with that said shoes like sandals and flip flops are coming out in full force having people wear them daily. However, with these stylish shoes come dangerous consequences such as agonizing pain to one’s feet and back.

Shoes like gladiator sandals which women love to wear are trendy and stylish but do not provide a lot of support for one’s foot or ankle. This can throw off the biomechanics of their feet leaving them at risk of developing a very serious and intense foot injury or condition. It is suggested that if you are planning to walk for a longer period of time outside or know that you are going to be on your feet for a while, that you should wear sneakers that guarantee support for your foot and ankle.

If you suspect a problem with your biomechanics and believe it is causing foot pain, ankle pain, or walking instability, it is recommended to see a podiatrist, like Dr. Neal Frankel of A Foot & Ankle Centre for immediate consultation, care, and treatment options.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

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 structure and focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

- 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 to the area.

Modern technology improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes providing a better understanding of podiatry concepts for biomechanics. Computers provide accurate determinations about the forces, moments and patterns of the foot and lower legs with the most important information captured.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Chicago, Lincolnwood, and Oak Brook, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.

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Lakers star, Kobe Bryant is currently in the healing process after enduring surgery on his foot. The athlete had an Achilles injury that occurred in April and has just recently gotten surgery on it. Bryant’s Instagram and Twitter account has some photos of the injury and the athlete claims he was eager to put them up to show his fans.

One photo displayed a gruesome surgical procedure of Bryant’s foot, which he shared with his 2.5 million Twitter followers. The graphic photo shows a number of surgeons working on the open area around the 34-year old’s ankle. Bryant had to undergo surgery to repair his Achilles in April, but is slated for a return for the Lakers 2013-14 season opener.

Achilles Injuries can be painful and sometimes require surgery as with Kobe Bryant’s case. If you injured your Achilles tendon, a podiatrist like Dr. Neal Frankel of A Foot & Ankle Centre can determine your condition and follow the appropriate treatment options for your needs.

What is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles to the calf and heel of the foot. The strongest tendon in the body, it is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such so important, any injuries to it can cause severe complications and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What are the symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

- Inflammation
- Pain Ranging From Dull to Severe
- Increased blood flow to the tendon
- Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

- Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
- Complete immobility

Treatment and Prevention

- Stretching before and after exercise
- Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses
- Proper footwear

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Chicago, Lincolnwood, and Oak Brook, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.