You’ve got the right shoes, what about your socks?

How often when we have found the right pair of shoes, we have actually forgotten to match them up with the right pair of socks? It is surprising that many of my patients have certainly overlooked this aspect of our daily life especially when our feet spend over 10 hours each day inside socks! 

Socks can be purchased everywhere and the price could range from $2 to $30. How do you know which one is the right for you? There is a misconception that socks made of cotton is the best option. Undoubtedly, cotton being a natural material feels nice; but it also absorbs and retains moisture within its fibers, sticking to the skin when it is wet and causing discomfort.

Conventional cotton tube style socks restricts healthy air and blood flow circulation to the foot, so the whole foot is forced to work as one unit. This causes heat and moisture build up, especially between the toes, which makes it the ideal environment for fungus to harbour and grow.

This is why we find that the Injinji Toesock is a great product to combat these problems.

The Injinji Toesock is designed to separate the toes, with a CoolMax© lining that wicks moisture from between the toes and throughout the entire toe box, and a resistant nylon outer shell woven with Lycra© that is light and breathable. It allows free movement from the heel to the toes, offers improved balance, posture and grip, encourages healthy circulation and eliminates skin on skin friction that prevents blistering; which is similar to being barefoot. 

The Performance series is suitable for runners and we have a good range of selection available here at the clinic. Remember if you are currently suffering from injuries, I strongly advise you to book in a consultation with me for an assessment. And feel free to email me for a copy of blister prevention guide, it is a must have for all runners!

All the best on Sunday for the Sydney Marathon and happy running!

Gearing up for City2Surf 2011

I have noticed that with the improved weather, more people have started to gear up their training for the City2Surf at the bay run recently. 

However, it is quite alarming to find that 60-85% of runners are still injured every year*. Running with a straight posture with a shorter stride can help to prevent injuries, but it is also important to remember that strong muscles also play a significant role in the prevention, too.

Canadian fitness trainer Roland Semprie explains that strong muscles are able to withstand more damage and impact and therefore, able to repair quickly**. With the BAREFOOT SCIENCE™ foot strengthening system, the intrinsic muscles conform around the dome which stimulates the muscles in your feet, while your neurosensory motor input is stimulated for better cadence.

It is also crucial to have well-fitted and good running shoes. I recommend Earth Shoes and Hoka Oneone to assist with the development of correct stride and strong feet, which are both available from my specialised footgear clinic.

Earth Shoe Exer-Walk Blue

The renowned -3.7° heel of Earth Shoe is designed to provide the feeling of being barefoot on soft ground. It subtly shifts your body weight back over your heels so your posture is automatically corrected to be more upright, with a slight activation to your core muscles. When running in Earth Shoe, it promotes the natural barefoot way of running. it is easier and more efficient to strike with the forefeet rather than striking with the heel first.

Hoka Oneone Bondi B. Unisex

Hoka Oneone is new in Australia and was awarded as the “Footwear Product of the Year” at the Outdoor Trade Show (UK) Novel Awards and “Innovation of the Year” by Endurance Trail in 2010. 

The word Hoka is derived from ancient Maori meaning "now it is time to fly". Notably with being 15% lighter than conventional trail running shoes, the sole features a 50% rockering profile that propels you forward by providing a smooth and energy efficient stride. Hoka Oneone also features a 35% wider platform designed to enhance underfoot stability. Numerous experienced runners have praised the French footgear for the great comfort and less soreness during and after the race.

With only two weeks to go until City2Surf, and if you are currently suffering from injuries, I strongly advise you to book in a consultation with me for an assessment. And feel free to email me for a copy of blister prevention guide— a must have for all runners!

Besides from that, this is our first year participating at the City2Surf Expo to be held at Sydney Town Hall on 11-13 August. We will be showcasing the benefits of BAREFOOT SCIENCE™ muscle strengthening system for your feet, so make sure to bring your family and friends to Stand 15 and check them out!