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Alleviating Knee Pain

Due to an injury I sustained nearly nine years ago, I sometimes experience knee pain. I’m constantly researching new ways to treat my pain. Have you dealt with aggravating knee pain for an extended period of time? Consider visiting an orthopedic doctor near you. This individual can likely diagnose what is causing your discomfort. Depending on your unique situation, your physician might recommend you undergo physical therapy. Your doctor may also prescribe you an anti-inflammatory drug. Changing your diet might also help you feel better. On this blog, I hope you will discover ingenious ways to help you recover from constant knee pain. Enjoy!

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Talk With Your Podiatrist About The Proper Footwear For Your Elderly Parents

by Roberto Morales

As your parents age, they tend to have more trouble with their balance. This can lead to falls that may cause broken bones or a life-threatening accident. Make an appointment with a podiatrist and ask what type of shoes would be the most benefit for your parent's feet. The doctor will examine the feet, have x-rays taken, and make suggestions on which shoes you should buy. He or she may also prescribe custom orthotic inserts to help support the feet. Here are a few things the doctor, someone like Newsom Russell Dr, will discuss with you.

Size

Every time you go to buy shoes, be sure to have the feet professionally measured. Keep in mind that your parent probably wears different types of socks with different types of shoes. Make sure to have a pair of socks that will be worn with the shoe type you are shopping for with you. Have both feet measured. If one foot is slightly larger than the other is, go with the larger size.

Test the Stability of the Shoe

When you decide on a style, be sure to test the stability of the shoe. To do this, there are three aspects to look at.

  1. Test the heels – Try pressing the sides of the heels together. You want a heel that is not going to collapse but will stay up and rigid for the life of the shoe.
  2. Test the flexibility – Try folding the shoe up from the heel to the toe. While you do not want a shoe that is so rigid it is not at all flexible, you also do not want one that folds easily. A firm, but slightly bendable sole is best.
  3. Test the sides – Try twisting the shoe from side to side. A good, stable shoe should not twist.

Take Orthotic Inserts

If the doctor has prescribed any type or orthotic insert, be sure to take it with you when trying new shoes. This includes arch supports, heel liners, insoles and cushion support. The new shoes need to fit comfortably with the inserts in place. You may need to get a larger size to accommodate the orthotics or have the shoes special ordered.

Try Them Out

Make sure your parent puts on both shoes and walks around the store a few times. Watch his or her gait. Notice if there is any weaving or missteps. Ask your parent if the shoes feel comfortable and if he or she feels safe walking in them. Do not buy a pair with the idea that they will become more comfortable as they are worn in.

It would not hurt to take the new shoes to the podiatrist after making the purchase. He or she can watch as your parent walks around the room to make sure the balance is fine. If not, take the shoes back. The more you can do to help with your parents' mobility, the safe he or she will be.

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