Magic Shoes

In the last Austin Foot and Ankle Specialists blog, we talked about some concerns to be aware of with the idea of barefoot running. Hopefully, we have convinced you to wear proper footwear while exercising. With this in mind, let us talk about the type of footwear you should be using. A good running shoe or tennis shoe should have a good rubber sole, for traction, with extra stability in the center to support the middle, or arch, of your foot. If the activity you are involved in requires a lot of quick turns and twists, as in basketball, then I higher back portion will offer some ankle stability. Even when dressing for business or a formal function, it is important to look for shoes that are both comfortable and provide traction. Not only can slipping and falling be embarrassing, but the possibility of injury is great.

So, you are probably wondering what all that has to do with ‘magic shoes'? Well, that particular phrase may not be in the advertisement, but the claims of a particular ‘new' type of footwear come awfully close. These ‘new' shoes appear to be a marketing spin on a type of shoe modification occasionally implemented by podiatrists. This type of modification, a ‘rocker bottom' orthosis, can be added to an individual's footwear when motion of particular joints are painful or could further damage. A healthy individual with no foot problems wearing them may actually create problems of joint or muscle limitations. We as consumers are always being enticed with the latest, greatest and need to be armed with good information. There are a plethora of products out there to help you get in shape or ‘shed the pounds' but very few can compete with a good pair of shoes and a regular walk or run!