Cycling is a rapidly growing sport with all shapes and sizes joining in on the fun. Whether you ride every day or on the weekends, cycling is a great way to burn calories, reduce stress and enjoy the beautiful outdoors.
Proper fitting cycling shoes are a key component of your cycling gear and can greatly reduce the chance of foot pain or injury. Visit with your local bike shops and learn about the brands offered. Discussing factors such as the amount of use, type of riding, budget along with foot size and shape will help the specialist fit you in the right brand for you.
Cycling cleats are typically stiff soled devices. The advantage is the foot is held securely in place allowing for even distribution of pressure as you complete each rotation and have better efficiency. Your bike should be with you when you are shopping for cycling shoes as the fit is not only important on your feet, it is also important positioning while riding on the bike especially if you select the clip in style cleats.
Hot spots, numbness or burning in the forefoot may be in relation to forefoot nerves. Wearing cycling shoes too tight or too thick of a sock could be the culprit. Typically, those with narrow feet can wear a thicker sock and those with fleshier feet may find comfort with a thin sock.
After loosening the shoes and/or changing the socks yet the issue is still present, return to your specialist for a review of the foot positioning while on the bike. An adjustment of the cleat is sometimes all you need for a better fit. If however the fit is still an issue, it may be a foot related problem. See your local Sport Podiatrist or Pedorthist in your area for further treatment or advice.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Monday, October 3, 2011
Getting the Right Fit
Tis the season of change from hot muggy temperatures to cooler fall weather. This change brings on the need for warmer clothing and shoes. For most, clothing is pretty easy however shoes can be a completely different experience. To make the most of your shoe shopping, being prepared can help you alleviate stress and give confidence you are buying the right shoes for your foot type.
Here are a few tips to help you get the right fit:
1. Take inventory of your current shoe selection. Are the shoes worn and in need of replacement or repair?
2. How old are your shoes? As a rule of thumb, sport shoes particularly running shoes should be replaced every six months or 300-500 miles. Dress and casual shoes should be replaced on a yearly basis if seasonal or every 8 months if worn every day.
3. Do you wear orthotics? Bring them along when you shop for shoes. This way, you will be able to judge if the shoe will accommodate your feet and the orthotics. Remember, not all shoes are created for orthotic wear.
4. Keep your feet healthy by having your feet examined at least once a year by a Podiatrist.
5. Consider your shoe shopping location. Pulling shoes off the shelf can be convenient however many times; the wrong shoe type is selected. Shop at a shoe store where fitters are available to fit you in the shoes. Ask if there are certified shoe fitters on staff. You will have a better shoe shopping experience working with a person who is familiar with shoe fit.
6. Always have your feet measured each time you shop for shoes.
7. Shop in the late afternoon when feet tend to swell from the day’s activity.
8. Bring socks for trying on shoes. Dress socks for dress shoes, everyday socks for casual shoes and athletic socks for sport shoes.
9. Be prepared to advise the fitter of your activity level, how often you will wear the particular shoes and any style requirements (i.e. business dress code or color requirement).
10. Spend time in the store and walk around in the shoes. If you have small children, consider a babysitter so you are not distracted from making purchase decisions.
Being prepared can make or break your next shoe shopping experience so get ready and have fun!
Here are a few tips to help you get the right fit:
1. Take inventory of your current shoe selection. Are the shoes worn and in need of replacement or repair?
2. How old are your shoes? As a rule of thumb, sport shoes particularly running shoes should be replaced every six months or 300-500 miles. Dress and casual shoes should be replaced on a yearly basis if seasonal or every 8 months if worn every day.
3. Do you wear orthotics? Bring them along when you shop for shoes. This way, you will be able to judge if the shoe will accommodate your feet and the orthotics. Remember, not all shoes are created for orthotic wear.
4. Keep your feet healthy by having your feet examined at least once a year by a Podiatrist.
5. Consider your shoe shopping location. Pulling shoes off the shelf can be convenient however many times; the wrong shoe type is selected. Shop at a shoe store where fitters are available to fit you in the shoes. Ask if there are certified shoe fitters on staff. You will have a better shoe shopping experience working with a person who is familiar with shoe fit.
6. Always have your feet measured each time you shop for shoes.
7. Shop in the late afternoon when feet tend to swell from the day’s activity.
8. Bring socks for trying on shoes. Dress socks for dress shoes, everyday socks for casual shoes and athletic socks for sport shoes.
9. Be prepared to advise the fitter of your activity level, how often you will wear the particular shoes and any style requirements (i.e. business dress code or color requirement).
10. Spend time in the store and walk around in the shoes. If you have small children, consider a babysitter so you are not distracted from making purchase decisions.
Being prepared can make or break your next shoe shopping experience so get ready and have fun!
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Love the Right Shoes for Tennis!
Tennis is a great activity especially for youngsters developing coordination along with cardio fitness. The body movements in tennis required start and stop actions along with side to side movements. Wearing the right shoes for the game is important to overall foot health.
Tennis shoes are much different than running shoes in that tennis shoes have specific qualities to support the foot type and protect feet. Tennis shoes have more cushioning along the sides of the shoe for added stability for side to side movements. To assist in moving players serving to moving up toward the net, the shoes have a thicker sole.
For those starting out in the game, cross training shoes may be an option. If however the athlete progresses in the sport, tennis shoes ultimately would be a better choice.
Running shoes should not be worn while playing tennis. A running shoe is meant for forward propulsion as with the action of running. Running shoes have a narrower base and cannot adequately support side to side movements resulting in ankle instability. Injuries such as ankle sprains, tendonitis, and stress fracture as well as growth plate injuries are common when running shoes are worn for tennis activity.
There are many tennis shoes on the market. First, start by visiting with your local Podiatrist or Certified Pedorthist to know your foot type, shoe size and the type of support needed based on your level of activity.
Next, shop around from local pro shops to sporting stores to try on different brands. Tennis shoes vary based on the manufacturer. The shoes you select should give you proper support and feel comfortable on your feet and not what fellow players are wearing. Remember, your feet are unique.
Based on the amount of play will determine how often you replace your tennis shoes. Anywhere from three to six months is typical. Inspect your shoes weekly for proper wear of the treads. While wearing the shoes, make sure you untie your shoes after use and tie your shoes when putting on the shoes. Tennis shoes should never be slipped on and off as support is weakened.
Keeping your tennis shoes in check will let you feet love the game!
Tennis shoes are much different than running shoes in that tennis shoes have specific qualities to support the foot type and protect feet. Tennis shoes have more cushioning along the sides of the shoe for added stability for side to side movements. To assist in moving players serving to moving up toward the net, the shoes have a thicker sole.
For those starting out in the game, cross training shoes may be an option. If however the athlete progresses in the sport, tennis shoes ultimately would be a better choice.
Running shoes should not be worn while playing tennis. A running shoe is meant for forward propulsion as with the action of running. Running shoes have a narrower base and cannot adequately support side to side movements resulting in ankle instability. Injuries such as ankle sprains, tendonitis, and stress fracture as well as growth plate injuries are common when running shoes are worn for tennis activity.
There are many tennis shoes on the market. First, start by visiting with your local Podiatrist or Certified Pedorthist to know your foot type, shoe size and the type of support needed based on your level of activity.
Next, shop around from local pro shops to sporting stores to try on different brands. Tennis shoes vary based on the manufacturer. The shoes you select should give you proper support and feel comfortable on your feet and not what fellow players are wearing. Remember, your feet are unique.
Based on the amount of play will determine how often you replace your tennis shoes. Anywhere from three to six months is typical. Inspect your shoes weekly for proper wear of the treads. While wearing the shoes, make sure you untie your shoes after use and tie your shoes when putting on the shoes. Tennis shoes should never be slipped on and off as support is weakened.
Keeping your tennis shoes in check will let you feet love the game!
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Pedicures aren’t just for ladies….men have feet too!
More and more men are indulging in pedicures and with good reason. Pedicures can be very helpful with proper nail growth and enhancing overall foot health. Proper nail maintenance can reduce foot issues such as ingrown toenails when properly groomed on a regular basis.
So what does a mens pedicure consist of along with a chance for him to relax? Here are basic steps:
A foot soak.
Buffing of dead skin for callous removal.
Shaping of nails and cuticle push back.
Lotion applied to the foot and calf with massage.
Buffing of all toenails and if desired, clear nail polish may be applied.
It is recommended pedicures are completed on a monthly basis. Many spa menus are now offering male specific treatments with treatment rooms for privacy. Choose the spa location carefully ensuring cleanliness. Look for a location that offers a certified medical nail technician(MNT). MNT’s obtain additional training beyond a nail technician license and are specifically trained in aseptic techniques.
So if you have a guy in your life that has everything.....treat his feet with a men’s pedicure. He along with his feet will thank you for it!
Here's to his foot health!
Janet Dixon, C.Ped.
So what does a mens pedicure consist of along with a chance for him to relax? Here are basic steps:
A foot soak.
Buffing of dead skin for callous removal.
Shaping of nails and cuticle push back.
Lotion applied to the foot and calf with massage.
Buffing of all toenails and if desired, clear nail polish may be applied.
It is recommended pedicures are completed on a monthly basis. Many spa menus are now offering male specific treatments with treatment rooms for privacy. Choose the spa location carefully ensuring cleanliness. Look for a location that offers a certified medical nail technician(MNT). MNT’s obtain additional training beyond a nail technician license and are specifically trained in aseptic techniques.
So if you have a guy in your life that has everything.....treat his feet with a men’s pedicure. He along with his feet will thank you for it!
Here's to his foot health!
Janet Dixon, C.Ped.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
The Road to Ironman Texas: Part Two
The race is not officially over until the FAANT girls get their Ironman tattoos!
The Last Road to Ironman Texas
Follow Janet and Dr Crane on their journey to Ironman Texas in this video
Monday, May 23, 2011
The Journey to a Texas IronMan
Hi Everyone,
IronMan Texas is officially in the books! Dr. Crane and I both finished a very long day last Saturday of 140.6 miles. Now it is Monday and just this morning, it is hitting me that we both have the title of IronMan.
Was it worth it?
Yes.
Was it hard?
Yes.
Would you do it again? Initally we both stated no. Now that I have slept…well, lets just say I have time to think about it. ;)
I set rules for myself the night before the race: One, keep a consistent swim stroke. Two, hold back on bike speed and keep it consistent. Three, walk the run portion with a consistent stride. The steps were key in allowing me to cross the finish line Saturday night.
The cloud cover truly gave us a break for most of race day. Had the sun been out with the humidity, I will say things may have not been so stellar. The swim start was a little scary since this was my first mass swim start. When the gun went off, I was still on the ramp and was pushed into the water. Two bodies swam right over me. For a split second I thought I was going to freak out, then something inside told me to focus and I fought to get above water and push for space. Soon the swim stroke began, consistent and non stop. After awhile 2.4 miles were complete.
Standing upright after the swim was funny. My left foot wanted to keep kicking however not lift upright to the stair case. I laughed getting up the stairs and then walked/jogged to the transition tent. It was amazing how calm I felt and how the body was telling the brain to just hang out today and let me do this race. Once in the tent, the volunteers were amazing. I can’t for the life of me remember the volunteers names, but let me tell you – they were EXCELLENT! I was assisted from start to finish to prepare for the bike and within a few minutes, I picked up Celeste and off we went on the bike journey.
The first half of the ride was wonderful. The sky was overcast and in pockets, rain fell which was cooling. The scenery was soothing. I held back on the bike speed and just enjoyed the ride. The second half was flat and I was starting to get figity in the seat. I kept rolling through waterstop after waterstop and did not stop all 112 miles. I kept my promise to keep it easy and enjoy every minute.
Rolling into transition two was bitter sweet. I was sad to dismount after a great ride however this was the point where I knew I was going to be an IronMan. After another awesome transition, I was off for a three loop walk. I kept timing pretty consistent and received very large blisters on both feet. I won’t gross you out but walking on a bed of water in your shoe is not an enjoyable task. I stopped at every water stop, high fived the crowds and just smiled.
Last lap I made sure I thanked every volunteer. They had a long day also and each person was spectacular. Walking down the final path, I smiled and tipped my visor to all of the people screaming and yelling words of joy to myself and other race participants. I saw my husband Dennis and held back tears. I heard Sherpa #2, my friend Laurie screaming at the top of her lungs. We hugged and I was handed Ms. Kitty (beanie baby) that I had all through training. I actually picked up my feet and jogged (this hurt a lot) through the finish line and I heard it – Janet Dixon, you’re an IronMan! A friend of mine name Scott was volunteering and waited for me as I crossed the finish line. We hugged and high fived. Volunteers were smiling with one stating I looked so happy. I can’t describe the feeling but I will never forget that moment. Dennis caught up to me after the finish line chute and I just kept smiling.
The next day, the only thing that hurt was my feet and the blisters. My knee was annoyed since I kept rolling my foot out to avoid walking on the blisters. I expected to be in a lot more pain but it was not happening. That tells me I paced myself exactly as planned however, I could have taken in more nutrition before and during the race as I was hungry on the swim and on the run. That’s okay, I finished in time and 10 minutes faster than I anticipated.
So that’s it my friends – the journey has come to a close. I hope it was fun for you. So what’s next? Let me think a bit on that one. ;)
Talk to ya……soon!
Janet, IronMan 2011
IronMan Texas is officially in the books! Dr. Crane and I both finished a very long day last Saturday of 140.6 miles. Now it is Monday and just this morning, it is hitting me that we both have the title of IronMan.
Was it worth it?
Yes.
Was it hard?
Yes.
Would you do it again? Initally we both stated no. Now that I have slept…well, lets just say I have time to think about it. ;)
I set rules for myself the night before the race: One, keep a consistent swim stroke. Two, hold back on bike speed and keep it consistent. Three, walk the run portion with a consistent stride. The steps were key in allowing me to cross the finish line Saturday night.
The cloud cover truly gave us a break for most of race day. Had the sun been out with the humidity, I will say things may have not been so stellar. The swim start was a little scary since this was my first mass swim start. When the gun went off, I was still on the ramp and was pushed into the water. Two bodies swam right over me. For a split second I thought I was going to freak out, then something inside told me to focus and I fought to get above water and push for space. Soon the swim stroke began, consistent and non stop. After awhile 2.4 miles were complete.
Standing upright after the swim was funny. My left foot wanted to keep kicking however not lift upright to the stair case. I laughed getting up the stairs and then walked/jogged to the transition tent. It was amazing how calm I felt and how the body was telling the brain to just hang out today and let me do this race. Once in the tent, the volunteers were amazing. I can’t for the life of me remember the volunteers names, but let me tell you – they were EXCELLENT! I was assisted from start to finish to prepare for the bike and within a few minutes, I picked up Celeste and off we went on the bike journey.
The first half of the ride was wonderful. The sky was overcast and in pockets, rain fell which was cooling. The scenery was soothing. I held back on the bike speed and just enjoyed the ride. The second half was flat and I was starting to get figity in the seat. I kept rolling through waterstop after waterstop and did not stop all 112 miles. I kept my promise to keep it easy and enjoy every minute.
Rolling into transition two was bitter sweet. I was sad to dismount after a great ride however this was the point where I knew I was going to be an IronMan. After another awesome transition, I was off for a three loop walk. I kept timing pretty consistent and received very large blisters on both feet. I won’t gross you out but walking on a bed of water in your shoe is not an enjoyable task. I stopped at every water stop, high fived the crowds and just smiled.
Last lap I made sure I thanked every volunteer. They had a long day also and each person was spectacular. Walking down the final path, I smiled and tipped my visor to all of the people screaming and yelling words of joy to myself and other race participants. I saw my husband Dennis and held back tears. I heard Sherpa #2, my friend Laurie screaming at the top of her lungs. We hugged and I was handed Ms. Kitty (beanie baby) that I had all through training. I actually picked up my feet and jogged (this hurt a lot) through the finish line and I heard it – Janet Dixon, you’re an IronMan! A friend of mine name Scott was volunteering and waited for me as I crossed the finish line. We hugged and high fived. Volunteers were smiling with one stating I looked so happy. I can’t describe the feeling but I will never forget that moment. Dennis caught up to me after the finish line chute and I just kept smiling.
The next day, the only thing that hurt was my feet and the blisters. My knee was annoyed since I kept rolling my foot out to avoid walking on the blisters. I expected to be in a lot more pain but it was not happening. That tells me I paced myself exactly as planned however, I could have taken in more nutrition before and during the race as I was hungry on the swim and on the run. That’s okay, I finished in time and 10 minutes faster than I anticipated.
So that’s it my friends – the journey has come to a close. I hope it was fun for you. So what’s next? Let me think a bit on that one. ;)
Talk to ya……soon!
Janet, IronMan 2011
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