Pickleball places significant demands on the feet, toes, and ankles due to frequent lateral movements, rapid direction changes, and sudden stops. Proper footwear for pickleball is essential to enhance stability during play and reduce the risk of injury. Unlike running shoes, which are designed for forward motion, pickleball shoes provide more lateral support, a reinforced heel counter, and a midfoot shank to help stabilize the foot. A thicker midsole affects comfort and mobility with cushioning that provides more shock absorption, while a thinner midsole allows for quicker movements. The outsole material is another key factor in choosing pickleball shoes. Outdoor pickleball shoes require durable rubber for traction on hard courts, while indoor shoes use softer rubber for better grip on wood or laminate surfaces. Choosing the correct shoe width and length is important to avoid foot strain or discomfort. A podiatrist can assess your foot mechanics, recommend appropriate footwear, and address any pain or discomfort that arises from playing pickleball. If you experience foot pain from playing pickleball, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Sports related foot and ankle injuries require proper treatment before players can go back to their regular routines. For more information, contact Frederick Matthews, DPM of Innovative Foot and Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Foot and ankle injuries are a common occurrence when it comes to athletes of any sport. While many athletes dismiss the initial aches and pains, the truth is that ignoring potential foot and ankle injuries can lead to serious problems. As athletes continue to place pressure and strain the area further, a mild injury can turn into something as serious as a rupture and may lead to a permanent disability. There are many factors that contribute to sports related foot and ankle injuries, which include failure to warm up properly, not providing support or wearing bad footwear. Common injuries and conditions athletes face, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis
• Plantar Fasciosis
• Achilles Tendinitis
• Achilles Tendon Rupture
• Ankle Sprains

Sports related injuries are commonly treated using the RICE method. This includes rest, applying ice to the injured area, compression and elevating the ankle. More serious sprains and injuries may require surgery, which could include arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery. Rehabilitation and therapy may also be required in order to get any recovering athlete to become fully functional again. Any unusual aches and pains an athlete sustains must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Plano, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Choosing the right running shoes is important for foot health and injury prevention. Proper arch support helps distribute pressure evenly, reducing strain on the heels and forefoot. Cushioning is necessary to absorb impact, lessening stress on the joints and soft tissues. The fit of your running shoes should be secure, but not too tight to avoid blisters, black toenails, and nerve compression. Toe box width is another factor, as shoes that are too narrow can cause pain and deformities over time. The shoe’s flexibility should match natural foot movement to prevent unnecessary strain on the toes and ankles. Stability is essential, as inadequate support can increase the risk of sprains or tendon injuries. The type of running surface also matters, as road and trail shoes provide different levels of traction and shock absorption. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure and gait to recommend shoes that improve comfort and help prevent running-related injuries. If you have foot pain or other ailments caused by running, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Frederick Matthews, DPM from Innovative Foot and Ankle 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 office located in Plano, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Toenails change over time, just like the rest of the body. As people age, nails tend to grow more slowly, becoming thicker, harder, and more brittle. Many notice a yellowish or dull appearance, making them harder to trim. Years of pressure from shoes, minor injuries, or underlying conditions like poor circulation and arthritis can cause nails to become misshapen or develop ridges. Fungal infections are more common in older adults, leading to discolored, crumbly nails that may lift from the nail bed. Some people may experience dry, splitting nails due to decreased moisture retention. Thickened nails can press against shoes, causing discomfort or even pain. Regular foot care is essential. Keeping nails trimmed, moisturizing, and wearing well-fitted shoes can help. If your toenails become too thick, painful, or infected, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can provide proper care to keep feet healthy.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Frederick Matthews, DPM from Innovative Foot and Ankle Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Plano, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.