MD Podiatrist   Dr. Michaels is encouraging parents to get their children’s school shoes professionally fitted, as new research confirms that ill-fitted footwear can significantly impede foot movement and comfort. In a new study, researchers tested the effect of shoe size on foot motion and comfort among children aged 8 to 12 years, finding that…

If you’ve had back pain for more than a month, your pain is worsening over time, or you’re developing new neurologic symptoms such as numbness or weakness in any part of your body, it is best to see your healthcare professional. But if you’ve cleared your symptoms with your doctor, or you want to give…

There are a variety of things that can lead to back pain: not stretching properly after a workout, going against nature’s design and sitting for 10 hours a day in front of a computer, or…it could be because of your shoes. “Improper footwear can affect the alignment of all the joints in your lower body,”…

Most podiatrists recommend avoiding flip-flips due to their flimsy nature. If you decide to pick up a pair regardless, you’ll want to look for a few features. Dan Michaels, DPM suggests looking for a pair with cushioning and arch support. “Flip-flops with a wide, supportive base will help reduce strain on the feet and ankles…

“Do you remember the kid in school who entertained everyone with his stupid tricks? He was the one who could place both elbows well behind his head or fold himself like a pretzel. Entertaining fellow, but possibly the victim of a serious, potentially debilitating disease. Although the diagnosis is infrequently made, the research shows this…

  Hyperhidrosis, which causes excessive sweating, is a genetic condition brought on by overactivity in the sympathetic nerves responsible for your fight-or-flight response, explains Dan Michaels, DPM. This also controls the sweat glands in your hands, feet, and other areas. “Moisture and darkness cause fungus to grow on your feet, and fungus causes itching and…

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the tissue across the sole of your foot (from your heel bone up to your toes) becomes inflamed, which then causes pain in your heel and arch, says Daniel Michaels, DPM. He adds that you can relieve this pain by taking anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen, regularly stretching the soles and arches…

            Dan Michaels, DPM says that to determine whether or not someone needs arch support, one should perform “The Wet Test,” which involves stepping on a piece of paper with wet feet and then evaluating the imprint. If there is a skinny question mark-like imprint, this indicates a high arch,…

Your feet can sometimes feel the effects of too much holiday cheer. Foods and beverages high in purines, such as shellfish, red meat, red wine, and beer can trigger extremely painful gout attacks, a condition when uric acid builds up and crystallizes in and around your joints. According to foot and ankle surgeon Dan Michaels,…

Choosing comfortable running shoes seems simple enough: Find the cushiest insoles possible and bounce along on your run, right? Wrong! Cushioning in running shoes is not just about pillowy insoles. It’s also about adding shock absorption and a spring to your step, according to Dan Michaels, DPM. Too much of it can actually be detrimental…