FOOTWEAR FOR CHILDREN

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One of the most commonly asked questions in our monthly paediatric clinic is around what footwear is most appropriate for children. Before offering our advice, we like to point out that the brand doesn’t matter – what is more important, and more cost effective for you, is to be equipped with what to look for in the shoe features, to alleviate the stresses of shopping for children’s shoes!

FIT: 

Have the shoes fitted professionally at a footwear store – this is important because the fit of a child’s shoe will largely dictate the comfort and ability to move without pain – crucial for development! We recommend they be re-checked every 3-6 months to ensure there is still about a thumb distance between the end of the shoe and the longest toe (this may be the 2nd), and that the width is still appropriate. 

FASTENINGS: 

They should have adjustable fastenings to make sure the shoe stays firmly on the foot when they’re running around. It doesn’t matter if it’s Velcro, laces or straps – ideally something that your child can adjust themselves. 

THE SOLE (SHOE LAST): 

This refers to the bottom of the shoe – assess the shoe and ensure that it is more straight than curved. Often adult shoes have more of a curve than children’s shoes. 

THE BEND (FLEX POINT): 

When holding the shoe, fold it so that the shoe bends – shoes should bend at the flex point of the toes – not in the middle of the shoe. 

If you are unsure about how appropriate your child’s shoe is for them, or if they have any lower leg or foot concerns – give us a call.  It may be worthwhile for you to bring your child to our monthly paediatric clinic for up to 6 years old or to one of our back to school and family foot check events for school aged children. Call us on 5223 1531 for dates. 

THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO REPLACE PROFESSIONAL PODIATRIC ADVICE. TREATMENT WILL VARY BETWEEN INDIVIDUALS DEPENDING UPON YOUR DIAGNOSIS AND PRESENTING COMPLAINT. AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS CAN ONLY BE MADE FOLLOWING PERSONAL CONSULTATION WITH A PODIATRIST.

BEST THONGS

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We all need some flip flops to cruise around in during the upcoming summer months – so now is the time to talk all things thongs! 

Generally, we recommend a sandal over a non-supportive, flat thong. But if you need a throw on pair – here’s some advice we recommend: 

  • Ideally something with a small heel 
  • Arch support is offered in some of the designs and you may find this more comfortable 
  • Fastening – a strap will help keep them on and prevent tendon problems from gripping too much 

If you can wear your preferred comfortable shoe for longer walks and sandals/thongs for periods where you will be sitting or going for short walks, we recommend you do so! 

At Total Care Podiatry we have thongs and sandals from Vionic, Revere and Orthaheel.

Orthaheel Spangle

THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO REPLACE PROFESSIONAL PODIATRIC ADVICE. TREATMENT WILL VARY BETWEEN INDIVIDUALS DEPENDING UPON YOUR DIAGNOSIS AND PRESENTING COMPLAINT. AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS CAN ONLY BE MADE FOLLOWING PERSONAL CONSULTATION WITH A PODIATRIST.

TOP 5 TIPS FOR BEGINNER RUNNERS

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People are not ‘born runners’ – if you have an urge to start running and to chase that ‘runners high’ – start ASAP before the urge to start goes! People often ignore it and think I’ll never be a runner’. This is not true! With patience, and a slow, steady approach, you will get there – ideally injury free!!

  1. Find a running friend/group – these days it’s hard to be self-motivated. Life is busy – find a friend with a common goal (running!) and start the gradual training process together. When starting you should be able to hold a conversation and not be so out of breath that you are unable to speak. – a good sign you’re going too hard, too soon!
  2. Have a good sleep/wake cycle – our bodies thrive off a good routine. Set a time to go to bed and try and stick to it! If possible, complete your run first thing in the morning to motivate sleep! 
  3. Use an app – a good way to start and to stay motivated is to download an app – try something achievable like the ‘C25K’ (couch to 5km) app – it will encourage a steady training program and prevent over training. 
  4. Stay positive – its not easy starting something new. Be kind to yourself and acknowledge the fact that you won’t always feel like going for a run – push through this a few times and you’ll find a habit forms – remember the feeling you get after your run and let that be the motivator!

 

WARNING: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional podiatric advice. If you have any concerns or pain in your feet you should seek professional advice.  Treatment will vary between individuals depending upon your diagnosis and presenting complaint. An accurate diagnosis can only be made following personal consultation with a Podiatrist.

MEDIAL TIBIAL STRESS SYNDROME – aka ‘Shin Splints’

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MTSS is one of the most common exercise induced, overuse leg problems. It is associated with poor shock absorption which results in excessive load through the tibia (shin bone) causing pain and inflammation. Overuse of the muscles in the calf are thought to be a big causative factor of the pathology. Excessive foot collapse or high arches, hard training surfaces, and poor footwear may cause the leg muscles to work even harder than usual which enhances the risk of shin splints.
MECHANISMS OF INJURY:
1) TRACTION INDUCED PERIOSTITIS: inflammation of the sheath that covers your shin bone
causing pain
2) MICRO TRAUMA: inflammation and tiny micro damage to the shin bone because of the
stress put through it, resulting in inflammation of the sheath covering the shin bone.
RISK FACTORS:
– Increased hip external rotation
– Flat or high arched foot
– Enlarged calf muscle
– Increased internal rotation of the shin bone
– Muscle dysfunction
– Females are more susceptible
– Running history of at least 5 years or exercising ‘too fast too soon’
– Exercising on hard surfaces
– Increased BMI
– Running or jumping activities

– Previous history of shin splints

 

THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO REPLACE PROFESSIONAL PODIATRIC ADVICE. TREATMENT WILL VARY BETWEEN INDIVIDUALS DEPENDING UPON YOUR DIAGNOSIS AND PRESENTING COMPLAINT. AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS CAN ONLY BE MADE FOLLOWING PERSONAL CONSULTATION WITH A PODIATRIST.

ARE YOUR FEET SUMMER READY?

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We all look forward to warm summer days and having our toes in the sand!
Here are just a few things to keep at the front of your mind to ensure that when it comes to achieving your new year’s resolutions, (which we can all admit isn’t all that far away), we can!
Toenails and skin:
Summer can often lead to dryer skin so although the salt water at the beach does wonders, ensure that you regularly moisturise your legs and feet, to reduce the chance of painful splitting callous on the heels and infection.
Now, if you’re the opposite, and are always wearing closed-in shoes, perhaps invest in a more open-toed shoe, and alternate your shoes to allow air flow to the feet.
If you have reduced or absent sensation in your feet, it’s best to avoid going barefoot, especially as the hot temperatures on the ground can burn your feet. Always empty your shoes to get rid of any sand or stones.
If you like to wear nail polish, try to avoid leaving it on for the whole duration of summer. It’s best to remove it within a few days to avoid damage to the toenails.
If you tend to sweat a lot when wearing shoes and socks, summer can be a nightmare for you! Try changing your socks a few times throughout the day and make sure you are wearing a clean pair each day. Excess moisture can lead to irritating skin conditions and infections. If changing your socks doesn’t help, book in with your Podiatrist.
Did you know?
We apply sunscreen to most areas of our bodies, but often forget our feet. Podiatrists sometimes pick up on moles on the feet that are or can become cancerous. So, don’t neglect your feet and check them out! If you are concerned about any new skin spots/moles, please consult with your GP asap for a skin check! Don’t forget to also check underneath and in between your toes.
Footwear:
Footwear options are all about balance! It is completely fine to wear thongs on warm days, but if you plan on doing a lot of walking,  consider wearing your runners or walkers.
Or, if you could never see yourself wearing runners, think about a good sandal or thong with a bit more structure than your every-day ‘flip-‘flop’. Key features to look for are a more contoured and supportive sole and a small heel.
If you are experiencing foot pain, address your footwear first. If you experience no change, it is worthwhile seeing a Podiatrist for advice and an assessment.
Have a fantastic summer!
THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO REPLACE PROFESSIONAL PODIATRIC ADVICE. TREATMENT WILL VARY BETWEEN INDIVIDUALS DEPENDING UPON YOUR DIAGNOSIS AND PRESENTING COMPLAINT. AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS CAN ONLY BE MADE FOLLOWING PERSONAL CONSULTATION WITH A PODIATRIST.