“The right socks are really important,” explains Dan Michaels, DPM. “Even more so for people [who are] running… due to the increase in load going through your feet and the amount of sweat your feet produce.” And that’s not all ““ poor sock choices can put your feet at risk of other issues. “The wrong socks…

  Long days on your feet can have serious effects on your joint health over time, which is why these mats have many benefits for everyday life. Dan Michaels, DPM, shares, “Anti-fatigue or standing mats are designed to off-load stress to the foot and body associated with prolonged standing.” He adds, “Some mats provide cushion,…

The pros: “Because they are so spacious, foam clogs are a comfortable and convenient option for those who have foot deformities such as hammertoes, foot swelling, or pain from an injury. The cushiony feel is a welcome reprieve for those with arch or foot pain. They’re also a great choice for a day at the…

According to Dan Michaels, DPM, “Certainly the posterior tibial tendon can be acutely injured, requiring only the traditional R.I.C.E. formula (rest, icing, compression, and elevation). But more commonly it’s a chronic condition due to the individual’s foot type. Altering a person’s biomechanics is a complex, challenging task. When achieved, the rewards may extend beyond simple…

If you experience chronic heel pain, chances are you suffer from a condition called plantar fasciitis. An estimated 10 percent of Americans suffer from this condition. “Patients with plantar fasciitis often experience a sharp pain in the foot the first thing in the morning or when getting up after a prolonged period of sitting, said…

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the heel that can cause lots of distress and discomfort. “Everyone has a rubber band-like structure, the plantar fascia, on the bottom of our feet that attach our heel bone to the front of our foot,” explains Dan Michaels, DPM. “When this rubber band becomes too tight, it develops…

Finding heels that you can wear comfortably all day is a feat for anyone, and that’s particularly true if you have flat feet. “Wearing shoes with more structure and support, especially for people with flat feet, is not only more comfortable but also healthier overall,” Dan Michaels, DPM states. According to Dr. Michaels, the best…

According to Dan Michaels, DPM, “Custom orthotics are of great benefit for young athletes in all sports. The prevention of many foot, ankle, and knee overuse problems is one of the biggest. Regardless of particular sport, proper and optimum foot alignment and biomechanics are key. Enhanced performance like better balance, speed, and stability is common.”…

  Cracked heels are particularly common during winter when, in many regions, the cold and dry air saps the moisture from our skin, leaving us with deep cracks that are sore to the touch. As if you don’t already have enough reasons to drink more water, it shouldn’t come as any surprise that this tried…

According to Dan Michaels, DPM, “In evaluating a bunion, your practitioner will likely examine your foot structure, examine your big toe joint, and order x-rays of your foot. Bunions are progressive and can become larger over time. Treatment options include both conservative and surgical options. Conservative treatment options focus on symptom relief. They include footwear…