May 2011 – Alae Taule'alo

May 13, 2011May 18, 2014

Running and Exercising

Context: A publications programme that consisted of a suite of post-card size resource on foot health, to be distributed at podiatrist clinics as resources for patients.

Outcome: Clinical take-up of the resources indicates a positive client and patient response to the publications. Patient take-up indicates that the programme succeeded in engaging the target audience.

To protect your lower limbs and feet from injury during running and exercise, it’s vital that you first select the right athletic shoe.

Shoes must have enough room at the toes (a minimum of two cm) and not compress the sides of the feet in a way that could cause friction and so lead to sores or corns.
Identify the primary activity that will be performed in the shoes and select accordingly — different kinds of exercise may require different kinds of shoe.
Shoes for running are designed to absorb impact forces, which can be between three and four times your body weight. Lightweight mesh materials can ensure that the upper is breathable and doesn’t stretch or distort with exercise.
Shoes for general athletic or aerobic activities can have features that help control biochemical problems. Your podiatrist can help advise you about the correct shoe for your activity and foot type.
Aim for sturdy heel box, good arch support and appropriate cushioning, particularly if you take aerobics classes.

Points to remember

Athletic shoes should be immediately comfortable and not require breaking in.

An average athletic shoe should last approximately 1,000 km, although this is influenced by your body weight and the surface you run on. You’ll need to replace your shoe when it has become distorted from constant wear or the mid-sole has become compressed and is less able to absorb the force of impact.

If you have a problem with your feet, seek advice from your local podiatrist. To find a podiatrist near you, contact the Australian Podiatry Association in your state or visit findapodiatrist.org or your Yellow Pages.

May 11, 2011March 24, 2020

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Context: A publications programme that consisted of a suite of post-card size resource on foot health, to be distributed at podiatrist clinics as resources for patients.

A good shoe can help relieve pain and keep you mobile if you’ve got rheumatoid arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis

When buying shoes look for:

A stable and supportive heel cup.
Space around the toes, with an extra-depth toe box or stretch upper to accommodate any changes in the toe.
Extra padding, especially under the front of the shoe.
Lightweight and flexible materials in the soles and uppers to help match the shape of the foot.
Few or minimal seams as these become pressure or friction points.
Natural fibres, as these tend to reduce the likelihood of developing skin irritations.
Buckle, laces or Velcro straps to hold the shoe onto your foot so your foot doesn’t have to do the work.

During the fitting process for shoes:

Make sure there’s enough space (minimum of two cm) between the end of the longest toe and the front of the shoe.
Ensure the ball of the foot fits comfortably in the widest part of the shoe.
Do not purchase shoes that require wearing in.
The heel should fit comfortably and the shoes should not ride up and down on the heel when walking.
Natural fibres keep the skin healthy.

If you have a problem with your feet, seek advice from your local podiatrist. To find a podiatrist near you, contact the Australian Podiatry Association in your state or findapodiatrist.org or your Yellow Pages for a list of podiatrists near you.

May 10, 2011March 24, 2020

Shoes at Work

Context: A publications programme that consisted of a suite of post-card size resource on foot health, to be distributed at podiatrist clinics as resources for patients.

Whether you’re an office worker, retail assistant or work down a mine, the workplace can demand a lot from your feet. Potential injuries can include stress fractures and sprains. Things to be mindful of when choosing footwear for your workplace include:

Fit. Footwear must allow enough room and support in the toe and heel box and not be too tight around the sides
Support. Avoid stiff and unsupportive soles or raised heels if you’re on your feet all day.
Right for the job. If you’re on a construction site make sure that your footwear offers the right protection, for instance steel-capped boots or fire-resistant materials, and that your feet are cushioned appropriately against impact
Offer the right protection. If you’re working in wet or cold environments make sure that your shoes are insulated and waterproof. Always try to keep your feet dry and if possible change your socks when your feet get wet during the day.
Last the distance. If your workplace demands that you wear high heels or dress shoes, try to stretch your feet and calves during the day standing at the photocopier or under the board-room table
OHS friendly. Make sure your shoes adhere to your work’s occupational health and safety standards.

Foot pain is a sign something is wrong. If you’re having chronic foot pain report it to the relevant authority in your workplace. Be aware of workplace hazards, particularly if your job involves dangerous tasks like cutting tools, welding or operating on irregular surfaces. Different activities require different footwear so be aware and be prepared. If you have a problem with your feet seek advice from your local podiatrist. To find a podiatrist near you, contact the Australasian Podiatry Association in your state or visit findapodiatrist.org or your Yellow Pages for a list of podiatrists near you.