Feel Good in Flip-Flops

The summer staples may not be doing your feet any favors, stride safely with these expert-approved styles and tips!

When it's steamy outside, skimpy clothes and sanda rule. But think twice before donning those flimsy thongs on a daily basis. "It causes over-pronation when wearing flip flops because there's no arch support, in addition flip flops make you claw your toes just to keep them on in order to walk," Dr. Kate Steklachich, D.P.M. That can lead to painful problems like plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, and shin splints. Fortunately, some companies now make healthier versions, but fit is key. And if a pair doesn't meet the following criteria, give them a pass.

• Support: Look for a visible arch formation. The toe end should slope upward a bit to help you grip while walking.
• Flexibility: But they shouldn't be too floppy; if you can fold one in half with your hand, put them back on the shelf.
• Traction: Tread patterns on the outsole will keep you grounded.

Here are a few suggestions:

• Montrail Molokini ($60)- Warm these in the oven before wearing them for the first time and the "thermo-moldable" footbeed will permanently conform to your contours
• Orthaheel Tide ($60)- If you pronate-meaning your feet roll in too much when you walk. A deel heel cup and motion-control footbed encourage proper alignment

  

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• Okabashi Ocean ($20)- This recyclable sandal provides excellent arch support with massaging beads. Bonus: if the sandals get grimy, you can run them through the diswasher
• Sole Sport Flips ($70)- In addition to a wide platform that allows overheated feet to expand, boast a metatarsal cushion and a hidden toe ridge to provide extra gripping power.

source: Shape Magazine August 2012 Issue

Bunhead's Crazy Competition

According to ABC Family's new show, Bunheads, the girls say the best dancer is the one with the worst looking feet!

Jack Daniel's Interesting Cause of Death

Did you know Jack Daniel, the famous distiller, died of a foot infection? Well, we learn something new everyday!

Source



Jack Daniels Logo (Photo credit: Wikipedia)



Jack Daniel had an infection that apparently started in his toe after kicking his safe (probably made of cast iron- so not a good idea!) out of anger. He often joked, "all I have to do to cure the infection is soak my toe in my own whiskey!"

The infection then lead to blood poisoning which Daniel died of in 1911.

Why a foot doctor?

Dr. Kate and I were talking the other day about the different types of doctors and other fields she might of considered entering other than Podiatry. After talking, I started wondering why Dr. Kate chose becoming a Doctor of Feet afterall and here's what she had to say!

What made you decide to become a foot doctor? When was this? My grandpa was Type 1 Diabetic with complications and he was the only grandparent I never met, this made me become interested in Diabetes. I also wanted to specialize in surgeries as opposed to an orthopedic doctor or doing hip surgeries, etc. Another reason is because I was an athlete in school and was exposed to injuries. So Podiatry covers all of the above- Diabetes, Surgeries and Sports Medicine! I believe I made the decision my senior year in college.

You're a young doctor, do you think its an advantage or disadvantage drawing patients to you? I 100% believe it's an advantage because Podiatry training is becoming better, you're well trained and are given good exposure to multiple aspects of Podiatry.

What do you love about your job? Helping people overcome their disease or complication and educating them on how it affects their foot health. Also, I met my current boyfriend through a patient (who is a good friend now!) and am thankful this career has led me to the person I hope to marry!

What do you do in your free time? When I can I spend time with my friends and family and try to live a healthy and active lifestyle with sporting activities.

How would you encourage others to enter this same profession? I would encourage them to shadow which is following a doctor around to educate them on what they would be taught and able to do.

Thanks Dr. Kate for taking the time out of your hectic day to inform others on what it's like to be a Podiatrist!

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