Items filtered by date: February 2025

Walking shoes and running shoes are designed for different activities, offering unique features to optimize comfort and performance. Walking shoes are generally more flexible, with a cushioned sole that supports the natural rolling motion of the foot during walking. They provide stability and are ideal for low-impact activities. Running shoes have more substantial cushioning, shock absorption, and added support to handle the repetitive high-impact force of running. Running shoes also tend to be lighter and offer more flexibility in the forefoot for better toe-off. While it is possible to use one pair for both activities, having shoes designed specifically for each can enhance comfort, prevent injuries, and improve performance. Therefore, having both walking and running shoes is beneficial for those who regularly engage in both activities. If you have developed foot pain from wearing the wrong shoes while walking or running, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can help you find relief tips, and guide you on the correct shoes to wear for your desired activity.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with David Lambarski, DPM from Northeast Foot Care. Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Amsterdam and Clifton Park, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetic foot care is essential to prevent complications, especially when dealing with wounds. Diabetes can impair circulation and reduce sensation in the feet, making it harder to detect injuries. Small cuts, blisters, or ulcers can go unnoticed and lead to serious infections. Symptoms of a diabetic foot wound include redness, swelling, warmth, or even pus surrounding the affected area, often accompanied by pain or discomfort. In some cases, you may not feel any pain due to nerve damage. It is important to keep the wound clean and dry. For severe wounds, you might need antibiotics or a specialized wound care regimen. A podiatrist can help by thoroughly assessing the wound, providing the right treatments, and monitoring for infection or further complications. This type of doctor may also recommend custom footwear to reduce pressure on vulnerable areas. If you have diabetes and notice any foot wounds, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to promote heatling and prevent further issues.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact David Lambarski, DPM from Northeast Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Amsterdam and Clifton Park, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Painful diabetic neuropathy happens when high blood sugar damages nerves, causing pain, burning, or tingling in the feet. One key issue is blood flow. Studies show that people with this condition often have too much blood flow in their feet due to a problem with the sympathetic nervous system. This system helps control circulation, but when it does not work properly, blood flow can be too high, leading to nerve irritation and pain. Research suggests that fixing this blood flow issue could help reduce pain. Understanding why the body reacts this way might lead to better treatments. If you have diabetes and your feet hurt, burn, or tingle, do not ignore it, as it can worsen. It is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can check your feet, suggest treatments and help you manage your symptoms.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact David Lambarski, DPM of Northeast Foot Care. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Amsterdam and Clifton Park, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Hammertoe is a deformity where one or more toes become bent at the middle joint, resembling a hammer. This condition often develops from an imbalance in the muscles and tendons that control the toe’s movement. Common causes include wearing ill-fitting shoes, high heels, arthritis, or a congenital predisposition. Symptoms of hammertoe include pain or tenderness in the affected toe, especially when wearing shoes. Corns or calluses that form on the top of the bent joint and difficulty moving the toe are other signs. The toe may become rigid over time, making it harder to straighten. Treatment for hammertoe typically starts with conservative methods, such as wearing roomy shoes, using orthotic devices, and performing foot exercises to stretch the muscles. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to realign the toe. A podiatrist can help diagnose hammertoe, recommend appropriate footwear, and guide you through treatment options. If you are experiencing this condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a this type of doctor.

Hammertoe

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact David Lambarski, DPM from Northeast Foot Care. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that affects the joints of the second, third, fourth, or fifth toes of your feet. It is a painful foot condition in which these toes curl and arch up, which can often lead to pain when wearing footwear.

Symptoms

• Pain in the affected toes
• Development of corns or calluses due to friction
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Contracture of the toes

Causes

Genetics – People who are genetically predisposed to hammertoe are often more susceptible

Arthritis – Because arthritis affects the joints in your toes, further deformities stemming from arthritis can occur

Trauma – Direct trauma to the toes could potentially lead to hammertoe

Ill-fitting shoes – Undue pressure on the front of the toes from ill-fitting shoes can potentially lead to the development of hammertoe

Treatment

Orthotics – Custom made inserts can be used to help relieve pressure placed on the toes and therefore relieve some of the pain associated with it

Medications – Oral medications such as anti-inflammatories or NSAIDs could be used to treat the pain and inflammation hammertoes causes. Injections of corticosteroids are also sometimes used

Surgery – In more severe cases where the hammertoes have become more rigid, foot surgery is a potential option

If you have any questions please contact our offices located in Amsterdam and Clifton Park, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.