Advice on Foot Care

What is the difference and which one do you need?

An insole is the inside liner of the shoe which sits directly below the foot - the innermost sole of the shoe. Almost all shoes come with insoles either stitched into the shoe or unattached and removable. Insoles are generally thin, flexible, soft and designed for protection and comfort. An insert is any device which you place in your shoe and can be an insole or an orthotic. Insoles can cost between $5-$20 and can be found at the drug store. Insoles are a good choice when extra cushion is needed in the shoe and the main goal is comfort. Continue Reading »

Cool New Gear For Runners & Walkers

The Nike+ iPod Sports Kit allows you to listen to your favorite tunes while you run or walk AND track your speed and distance. A sensor placed on the Nike shoes tracks time, distance and speed and transmits this information to the iPod receiver. The iPod can give audible feedback and let you know your pace or how many calories you have burned. The sensor and receiver come with the kit and Nike sells shoes with a compartment specifically made for the sensor, although other companies do sell sensor pouches which can attach to your current pair of running or walking shoes.

The Strassburg Sock^TM is a comfortable night splint for treating plantar fasciitis, heel pain, heel spurs and tendonitis. The Strassburg Sock is a tubular knit sock with adjustable straps used at night to stretch the plantar fascia and the calf. It is lightweight, breathable and washable. Many people find that the soft night splints are more comfortable than the rigid night splints. The strassburg sock is designed to be pulled on like a sock. The sock fits over the calf and then a strap is connected from the calf to the toes. The strap can then be adjusted and the toes can be pulled back, placing a stretch on the plantar fascia, allowing it to heal in the stretched position.

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