Apr 4, 2002/ FW/ --- For years, technology has addressed our every physical need -- from contact
lenses to hearing aids. Now, technology is making strides to address the needs
of the entire body by focusing on what gets us where we want to go -- our feet.
Think about this: there are 26 bones, 33 joints, 19 muscles, and 107
ligaments in each of your feet -- accounting for one quarter of the bones in the
human body. If any one of these muscles or bones is off, your stride can be
disrupted.
"Whether standing or walking it all comes down to the impact of your foot on
the ground and where the energy of that impact is delivered. In a word: shock,"
said Dr. Richard Braver, sports podiatrist for the Active Foot and Ankle Care
Center.
To this end, Dr. Braver recommends using products such as their Massaging Gel
or Dr. Scholl's Advantage® PowerWalk insoles, which are designed to absorb
shock, stress and pressure.
These products, the experts say, will meet the unique needs of walkers or
people who are on their feet all day by combining cushioning with performance.
"Walking is one of the best low-impact exercises for your feet," Braver said.
"However, it is crucial to protect your feet with good cushioning support
because this repetitive stride results in your feet having more contact with the
ground than in other sports, and produces more stress."
For those with tired feet, Braver recommends using products like Dr.
Scholl's® Advantage™ Arch Supports to help ease arch pain and provide comfort.
In addition to using inserts and arch supports to give overstressed feet some
much needed tender loving care, experts say that it's also time to stop thinking
of foot baths, pedicures, and foot massages as occasional spa luxuries. Instead,
start treating these foot care methods as essential parts of a healthcare
routine. By doing so, experts agree, you will not only soothe your hardworking
feet, but it will also help to create an overall sense of well being.
For more information about advances in foot care, visit
www.drscholls.com.
