One of the biggest mistakes new runners make is failing to invest in proper equipment. While it’s true that running is an inexpensive sport — all you need is some footwear and the great outdoors — it’s essential to choose the right running shoes. Jacksonville orthopedic specialists recommend getting personalized recommendations and then visiting a local running store to achieve the best fit. (more…)
One of the biggest mistakes new runners make is failing to invest in proper equipment. While it’s true that running is an inexpensive sport — all you need is some footwear and the great outdoors — it’s essential to choose the right running shoes. Jacksonville orthopedic specialists recommend getting personalized recommendations and then visiting a local running store to achieve the best fit.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Running Shoes
When faced with an array of running shoes, it can feel daunting to choose the right ones. Consider the following factors:
- Comfort. For good running shoes, comfort is king. In fact, scientific research studies suggest that comfort is the number one consideration to make when purchasing new running shoes. As you try on shoes, consider the amount of cushioning, arch height, shape of the heel, thickness of the heel and other factors. If a shoe doesn’t feel comfortable to you, don’t choose it.
- Pronation. Pronation refers the amount that your foot rolls inward as you land during each stride. The opposite, a rolling outward of the foot, is called supination (and is much less common). Traditionally, runners have believed that over-pronation can result in running injury. Certain shoes can help compensate for over- or under-pronation. Although the scientific research suggests that this factor may not be as important as previously believed, some runners do appreciate the support of a shoe that corrects pronation.
- Size. When you run, your foot may slide forward slightly in your shoe. Although you do not want your shoes to be too large for your feet, many runners find it comfortable to go up a half size from their street shoe size. You should have plenty of room in the toe box to wiggle your toes, but shoes should not risk slipping off your heel as you stride.
- Insoles. Remember that you might not walk out of the store with a perfect pair of running shoes. Many runners rely on specialty insoles to make their running shoes more comfortable. Ask your orthopedic doctor if insoles are a good idea for your feet.
- Material. The best running shoes are durable, breathable synthetic leather with nylon mesh. If you do a lot of outdoor running, thermoplastic urethane overlays improve durability and stability.
Failing to get good running shoes could result in joint pain or injury. Talk to your orthopedic doctor at Southeast Orthopedic Specialists for running shoe recommendations. Investing in the right footwear will result in long-term dividends as you avoid injury and stay physically active.
Common Orthopedic Conditions in Children
When you think of orthopedic issues, most think of concerns that develop with age—such as arthritis from osteoporosis, or overuse injuries that leave you with back, hip, shoulder or knee pain. But not all orthopedic injuries develop later in life. In some situations, even young children are exposed to chronic pain as a result of orthopedic conditions. While rare, these orthopedic conditions can interfere with proper development and may even impede bone growth. (more…)
Concussion Signs and Symptoms: When Should You Go to a Doctor?
Knowing how to identify and prepare yourself for injuries, including how to identify the need for medical help, is an essential life skill that too many people overlook. During this time of the year, football is in full swing, so at Southeast Orthopedic Specialists, we want to educate people on the signs and symptoms of concussions. (more…)
Why You Need Physical Therapy After Surgery
Undergoing surgery is always a big deal. It doesn’t matter how many injuries you’ve experienced in your life, or how many times you have to undergo the knife — the task of recovering from surgery never gets easier. This is because having surgery makes you completely rethink how you can use your own body. During the recovery period you are forced to stop using some portion of your body. When it comes to surgery on joints, such as the knees, hips, shoulders or ankles, this can be a painful, debilitating and frustrating process. For many who undergo surgery for injury repair, it means going from living an active lifestyle to staying bedridden or immobilized for weeks! (more…)
Common Orthopedic Conditions in the Elderly
There are nearly 45 million people over the age of 65 in the United States, and that figure is expected to rise to 98 million by 2060. This rapidly aging population and biological changes to older adults’ bodies mean that orthopedic injuries are increasingly common. Visiting an orthopedic doctor can help older individuals get the treatment they need. (more…)
Crossfit: Safe or Not?
There’s a lot to like about CrossFit. It packs a big-time workout into a short timespan, and it uses interval training along with weights. That means CrossFitters get fit while building muscle.
It’s super popular these days – thousands upon thousands of diehards have adopted the CrossFit “lifestyle,” working out at one of 12,000 locations across the country. And it shows – CrossFitters’ physiques are decidedly superhero-esque.
But is it safe? Or are there inherent risks associated with CrossFit? It depends on who you ask.
Partial Joint Replacement
Millions of Americans suffer from joint pain, with 40 percent saying that it is “very difficult” or they are “unable” to perform common activities like stooping, bending, kneeling or walking a brief distance, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A partial joint replacement from a Jacksonville orthopedic specialist may significantly decrease pain and improve your quality of life.
Should You Get a Bone Density Scan?
Bone density scans determine how strong your bones are and if you’re at risk for osteoporosis, a condition that makes your bones weak and more likely to break.
Bone density scans, also called bone mineral density (BMD), are noninvasive and take just a few minutes to complete. Scans can be conducted on your hips or spine using a scan called Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry (DEXA). It’s similar to a traditional x-ray, but your body isn’t exposed to as much radiation. A smaller device can also determine bone density using your finger, wrist or heel. Oftentimes, these devices are used at community screenings or in drugstores that offer bone density scans to patrons.
Child Exercise: How Much Is Too Much?
You know it’s good for your kids to get regular exercise but can they get too much physical activity? Orthopedic surgeons say too much or the wrong kind of exercise can harm growing bodies.
That’s because growth plates can be more easily injured or broken during childhood and into the teenage years. Parents need to not only limit how much their children exercise but also restrict certain kinds of exercise. (more…)
