At Dr. Jill’s Foot Pads, we know running has become an even more popular fitness activity than it was pre-COVID 19. It’s easy to see why:

• You can enjoy the sport while maintaining safe social distance
• Running goes wherever you go
• It can be done outdoors or indoors on a treadmill
• There’s not a lot of expensive equipment required
• You don’t need a gym membership or to go to another location where you may feel uncomfortable

Along with this resurgence, however, has come an increase in podiatric problems related to running. Below are some of the more common issues and what to do about them.

Achilles Tendonitis—inflammation of the Achilles tendon is frequently seen in new runners who may have attacked the activity a little too vigorously. Going too far, too fast, too soon is a surefire way to aggravate this long tendon that runs along the back of your lower leg. Achilles tendonitis can also be caused by overuse. It’s important to gradually build up in speed and duration in your runs and to have break days to give muscles a chance to recover. Try our Achilles Heel Sleeve. The soft gel padding gently compresses and reduces pressure around sore spots while providing protection at the same time to this vulnerable area.

Runner’s Toe—runners are known to have some pretty ugly toenails. Oftentimes they actually look black. This can be the result of shoes that don’t fit properly. If the shoe is too tight, repeated trauma of the toe hitting up against the front of the shoe can cause the discoloration which is actually bruising or bleeding under the nail. Our All Gel Toe Cap can bring relief. It slips over the entire toe, cushioning and easing discomfort to the tip of the toe.

Heel Pain-continuous pounding leaves some runners with sore heels. Sometimes this is simply a matter of choosing shoes with additional heel padding or using a product like our Gel Heel Cup to add another layer between your heel and the pavement to decrease impact.

If your feet continue to hurt, it’s best to see a Podiatrist to track down the source of the pain. In the meantime, you can order any of our products easily online. If you need assistance, contact us by calling: (866) FOOT-PAD (366-8723).

June is Men’s Health Month and at Dr. Jill’s Foot Pads we want to encourage men and the women who love them to take a look at ways to help men live longer and healthier lives. Currently, men die at higher rates than women for 9 out of the top 10 causes of death in our country. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), on average, women live 5 years longer than men. One of the primary reasons for this is that men neglect preventive health care and put off seeking evaluation and treatment of pain. When it comes to feet, this can lead to a number of serious consequences, including:

• Missed diagnosis of dangerous diseases such as diabetes and skin cancer.
• Treating minor foot problems before they become seriously debilitating.
• Keeping chronic conditions in check.
• Allowing foot pain to keep someone from being active and thereby contributing to weight gain, loss of physical fitness and increased risk for disease.

Make a Change for the Better

It is possible to reverse this course, however, and help all men be healthier. Like any life changes, it’s best to start small. Try one or more of the following suggestions or help a man you love to start taking better care of his podiatric health by:

• Not putting off seeking treatment for foot pain. Heel pain, for example, can be the result of fallen arches or a natural loss of fat in the heel pad. Your Podiatrist will be able to track down the source of the discomfort and prescribe the proper treatment. Many products are also available that can help such as the Gel Heel Pads or Arch Steppers.
• Get in the habit of examining your feet regularly. From fungal infections to diabetes, changes in your feet can signal a developing problem. Catching podiatric problems in their early stages means easier and less invasive treatments. Look for changes in color, shape, swelling, bruises, cuts that are slow to heal, growths and anything that seems unusual or different and report anything suspicious to your Podiatrist promptly.
• Make healthy lifestyle changes. Don’t smoke, eat a nutritious diet and exercise regularly to improve overall health. Take advantage of products that help make exercise more comfortable such as Full Length Orthotics and Gel Malleolar Sleeve for increased ankle support.

At Dr. Jill’s Foot Pads, we’re here to support good foot health for all men and women. To see a complete selection of products, view our online catalog. If you need assistance with our easy online ordering, don’t hesitate to contact us at: (866) FOOT-PAD (366-8723).

At Dr. Jill’s Foot Pads, we salute the many doctors, nurses and first responders who have been working long hours on the front lines during the COVID 19 pandemic. Being on your feet for extended periods of time without a break can cause foot pain and exacerbate several common disorders such as bunions, flat feet, corns, calluses, blisters and plantar fasciitis. Constantly being on the move can lead to sweaty feet which increases your risk for fungal infections. Below are some ways that healthcare workers and others whose jobs require them to stand or walk for significant periods can find relief and decrease the potential for foot and ankle discomfort.

• Wear good shoes. The right shoes are a healthcare worker’s good friend. Shoes that fit properly and have sturdy arch support are key. A cushioned insole and padded heel cup will increase comfort. No slip soles are also essential for preventing slips and falls. You can make your shoes more comfortable by adding Gel Heel Cups or Memory Foam Insoles.
• Keep an emergency supply kit handy. Pack a pair or two of extra socks and change when you notice your feet feel damp. This will limit the amount of time your feet spend in a moist environment and hopefully help you head off a case of athlete’s foot. Foot powder will also be helpful. It’s also a good idea to have some Gel Moleskin to apply to sore spots and prevent painful blisters from forming.
• Take breaks. Even on busy days if you can find a few minutes to sit down and take the weight of your feet, you’ll fare better in the long run. Put feet up if possible.
• Rotate tasks. If your workplace and the work you have to complete allows it, try to alternate tasks with co-workers. Not only will this help keep you mentally fresh, changing your physical position and movements will help prevent fatigue and repetitive pressure in one part of the body.

Thank your healthcare workers for all that they have bravely offered to your patients during this trying time.

For all workers with tired and achy feet, check out our complete selection of helpful foot products on our online catalog. All items are easily ordered online. Contact us by calling: (866) FOOT-PAD (366-8723) if you need assistance.