tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41080565948098440732024-03-13T22:49:14.179-07:00Stride Steady - Footform Orthotics BlogLook years younger, walk safely, reduce or eliminate walking pain and improve your posture and gait with Footform custom comfort orthotic shoe inserts and
Sports Performance OrthoticsRandall Barnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10388868912575828431noreply@blogger.comBlogger47125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-49300423078003097202014-04-29T10:08:00.000-07:002014-04-29T10:08:39.012-07:00New Post...it's about time!Sorry for the long delay since posting. I've been thinking a lot, and really busy, but it's time to share my new thoughts on how to get better and better with orthotics and gait/posture training.<br />
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Keep checking for new posts and an update to our website www.footform.comRandall Barnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10388868912575828431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-88560351485595927452009-11-17T08:46:00.000-08:002009-11-17T09:09:38.394-08:00Medical Deductible for Shoe Insert Orthotics, Year-End InsuranceShoe insert orthotics are part of a healthy life-style choice that will keep you on your feet for years to come.<br /><br />Every autumn my orthotics clinic becomes very busy because many clients come in to take advantage of their annual medical policy and update their shoe insert orthotics. Check out your insurance funds and if you have funds available, remember to purchase your othotics or duplicates before the end of the year.<br /><br />It's very important to have duplicate orthotics because you are more likely to use your othotics when it's easiest. Having orthotics in more than one pair of shoes makes it easier to use them and allows each pair to thoroughly dry out before wearing them again.<br /><br />Medical expense plans or "cafeteria plans" are a pool of funds that certain insurance companies (usually through a business medical insurance plan) offer to employees and members. This type of fund is a don't-use-it-you-lose-it policy, so be sure to use your available funds before Jan. 1st.<br /><br />Other insurance companies have a yearly deductible, that if a recipient may have fulfilled over the year, enables them to have more of their out-of-pocket medical expenses paid. Some insurance companies allow one pair of foot orthotics per year, or a certain amount of money to be put towards the purchase of a shoe insert or foot orthotic.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.Footform.com">www.Footform.com</a>Randall Barnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10388868912575828431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-56390467805306171512009-10-24T08:14:00.000-07:002009-10-24T08:46:21.660-07:00Custom Ski Boots - Daleboot is the Only Ski Boot Made in the U.S.A.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_N1jADTFiPrA/SuMgd_qtJlI/AAAAAAAACBI/4OWaO5Jia0o/s1600-h/Footform+daleboot.png"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 176px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_N1jADTFiPrA/SuMgd_qtJlI/AAAAAAAACBI/4OWaO5Jia0o/s400/Footform+daleboot.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396192478198834770" border="0" /></a>Painful feet drive people out of skiing. Sometimes, the only thing between skiing and quitting is a good ski boot. When a ski boot customer has irregular shaped feet or a foot problem of some sort, the only hope is to try on every manufacturer's ski boot and hope to find a ski boot shell style that best suits their foot problem.<br /><br />For over 4 decades I've worked with or in the ski industry. As a young 20 something I worked in ski shops for about 10 years, then owned my own ski shop for 10 years during the skiing heyday of the 1980's. Since then I've incorporated ski boot fitting and sales into my custom shoe insert orthotics business. To best serve my customers I only sell one ski boot, the Daleboot.<br /><br />I've been selling the Daleboot for over 10 years and am extremely satisfied with how they suit my client. Because I'm a <span style="font-style: italic;">Certified Pedorthist,</span> my ski boot customer is often looking for a good fit that might be the difference between continuing to ski or giving up the sport.<br /><br />Ski boot shells are molded hard plastic. The molds to make them are very expensive for the ski boot manufacturer. So each brand or model of ski-boot is designed for one-style-fits-all.<br /><br />The ski boot industry has tried to help customers with ski boot fitting by supplying a variety of customizable boot liners and shoe inserts or orthotics. Technicians can then spend time grinding and stretching the shell and hoping for the best.<br /><br />All of these efforts don't help the ski boot buyer when the performance of the boot is wrong for them even though the fit may eventually be right.<br /><br />Daleboot is the only domestically manufactured ski boot in the U.S.A. That means that I can easily customize the Daleboot ski boot with help from the factory. Factory involvement is especially important to be able to customize the boot shell.<br /><br />The entire Daleboot liner is fully formed (not partially, like most other brands) to the entire foot, ankle and lower leg. This feature is amazingly comfortable.<br /><br />The performance of the Daleboot ski boot is variable with a adjustable forward flex feature to suit all abilities of skiers. The even fit of the boot promotes good blood circulation and consequently the foot remains warm longer than in some other ski boots. If the client is especially sensitive to cold, there is room to install a boot warmer.<br /><br />People from around the country visit my <span style="font-weight: bold;">Footform Orthotics</span> clinic in Bend, Oregon to be fitted and purchase their Daleboots. They can test them on the nearby slopes of Mt. Bachelor and get any needed tweaks before they head home.<br /><br />Call my office to set your custom ski boot fitting appointment in Bend, Oregon<br />541-389-4547<br /><br /><a href="http://www.footform.com/">www.Footform.com</a>Cristina Acostahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02907255094642741458noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-39382140549591220622009-10-17T10:56:00.000-07:002009-10-17T11:05:41.486-07:00Customer Satisfaction - Keeping People Walking and Moving Well and Pain Free with Footform Shoe Insert Orthotics<span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: italic;">Hello Randall,<br /><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: italic;">I want you to know I think of you every morning, as I slip on my shoes for the day. Since I got my orthotics in May, I have been able to work, live and play pain free! I feel like it's not an understatement when I say your work has changed my life. I have even taken up activities that years ago I thought I would never be able to do. I'm even getting ready to run a 5k this fall (just writing this is bringing tears to my eyes)!<br /><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: italic;"> </span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: italic;">Thank you Randall. I'm a big fan!<br /><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-style: italic;">Lisa</span><br />______________________________________________________________<br /><br />Thanks Lisa for your note. Over the many years I've been in the Orthotics business I'm always touched to hear from a happy client. The proper integration of orthotics and shoes along with the client's efforts to change stance and gait can make a positive life-changing difference to our orthotics clients.<br /><br />You are obviously implementing the changes we discussed during our appointment as well as regularly wearing your orthotics and proper footwear. I'm so pleased to hear that you are experiencing good results.<br /><br />Good luck in your renewed running practice,<br /><br />RandallRandall Barnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10388868912575828431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-60294263388114430462009-10-07T06:00:00.000-07:002009-10-19T11:28:36.110-07:00Congratulations to Footform Gold Medal Athlete Barb Buchan<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.uci.ch/Modules/EAlbum/ALBUM/default.asp?MenuId=MTU3OTE&LangID=&CurPage=2"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 225px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_N1jADTFiPrA/SsJS6RNT6AI/AAAAAAAAB_k/weYlTbAu3xE/s320/Barb+Buchan+Italy" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386959265293658114" border="0" /></a>For many years we have been sponsoring <span style="font-style: italic;">U.S. Paralympian </span>cyclist Barb Buchan with our <a href="http://www.footform.com/">Footform Orthotics</a>. Barb is an inspiring and now quite famous athlete who at age 52 won 2 Gold Medals at the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Beijing Olympics</span> while setting a world record! (Of course she wore Footform orthotics in her cycling shoes!) With that victory in place, most of us thought that Barb would retire from cycling.<br /><br />Retirement is the farthest thing from Barb's mind. She recently returned from Italy with a new victory and para-cycling world record. Here are the details:<br /><ul><li>Where: <span style="font-weight: bold;">2009 Para-Cycling World Championships</span> in Bogogno, Italy. Sept. 11, 2009</li><li>What: Gold Medal Winner - LC3/LC4/CP3 - Time Trial BUCHAN (USA) with a time of 32:02 for 20k<br /></li></ul>Barb is very pleased with her results and compliments her coach, Bend resident, Justin Wadsworth for his years of training. Justin, himself a former Olympian and now World Cup Coach, also guided Buchan to two Gold Medals in the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Beijing Paralympics </span>last year and continues to guide her to her recent victories. Next month Buchan travels to Manchester, England to compete in the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Disabled World Championships</span> on the velodrome.<br /><br />Barb's physical, mental and emotional strength inspire all of us. The New York Times has featured a few articles about her. From <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2008/09/11/sports/othersports/11gold.html">Death's Door to the Medal Podium</a> by Allan Schwarz, is one of my favorites.<br /><br />Despite Barb Buchan's awesome successes, she is not able to get the level of financial sponsorship that relieves her money worries as she concentrates on her training. She is working as much as possible, but the extent of her head injuries along with the demands of her training severely limit her efforts. You can read about one of Barb's cyling fundraisers on my wife's <a href="http://wwwcristinaacosta.blogspot.com/2008/09/gold-medal-inspiration-of-barbara.html">CreateAndRelate</a> blog.<br /><br />Barb Buchan's always needs help with cycling expenses and donating to her will make a big difference in whether she can compete or not:<br /><br />Send Donations (not tax-deductible) to: (Please Make the Checks out to Barbara Buchan)<br /><br />Barbara Buchan<br />c/o CORIL: Central Oregon Resources for Independent Living<br />PO Box 9425<br />Bend, OR 97708 <br /><br />Barbara thanks you for your support.Randall Barnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10388868912575828431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-32706540435760381002009-09-29T08:23:00.000-07:002009-09-29T11:10:48.772-07:00Good Posture is More than Standing Up Straight<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_N1jADTFiPrA/SsJNMx8ZRhI/AAAAAAAAB_c/A9ft21Fs92s/s1600-h/20090505_bella_all_1082.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_N1jADTFiPrA/SsJNMx8ZRhI/AAAAAAAAB_c/A9ft21Fs92s/s320/20090505_bella_all_1082.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386952986248955410" border="0" /></a>There is a lot more to good posture than standing up straight. Your default posture (how you stand, sit and move without thinking) is your basic posture. People think you're born with posture or somehow inherit it. The truth about posture is that it is a learned skill.<br /><br />Our stone age ancestors had to rely on instant athletic movement to save their lives. In order to cover long distances, hunt or avoid being hunted, an athletic body was a necessity. As human kind became more civilized, ideas about movement and culture got in the way of natural movement. For example in the modern United States, fashion models and store manikins are often posed purposely in awkward positions that many young girls emulate.<br /><br />Also in the U.S. many people do not move their hips while walking. I'm not exactly sure why that is. I've been observing gait for decades and find that many Americans use their hips as a hinge joint rather than the ball-and-socket joint it is, a cultural habit that I think is linked to hip damage in middle-aged adults, particularly athletes that have put many miles on their bodies.<br /><br />Correct or "good" posture isn't a ramrod straight spine. Good posture is when you can move freely and easily to do anything you need to do instantly. Bad posture is when you lock your joints to brace your skeleton against itself to stay up. This locks out movement and makes any new movement a process of awkward adjustments.<br /><br />Locking your knees, jutting your neck forwards or slumping your shoulders forwards are all common things people do to "rest" themselves while standing or sitting. Here are some posture tips to get you on the road to healthy posture.<br /><ul><li>The first step to better posture is to develop body awareness through dance, exercise, yoga, martial arts, tai chi, sports -- anything that requires you to learn new movements (therefore becoming conscious of how you move). </li></ul><ul><li>Now, take that new body knowledge and as much as possible stop yourself during the day and note how you are doing.</li></ul><ul><li>Most importantly, bend your knees whenever you stand or walk. Never lock your knees no matter how fast you are walking.<br /></li></ul><ul><li>Keep your abs or core toned and engaged. Think about this when walking and sitting.</li></ul><br />There is much more to say about gait and posture, but this is a good start. For personal gait and stance and posture training, contact my office for a half-hour appointment.<br />Footform Performance Orthotics Center, 345 SW Century Drive, Ste.1, Bend, Oregon<br />541-389-4547<br /><a href="http://www.footform.com/">www.Footform.com</a>Randall Barnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10388868912575828431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-65368712109577553082009-09-14T07:54:00.000-07:002009-09-29T11:11:16.550-07:00"Barefoot" Running Shoes - Go Retro Instead and Wear MoccasinsThere are a number of shoe brands and some start-up shoe companies that are now offering a "new" nearly barefoot athletic shoe to the public, touting that their minimalist qualities are "natural" for the human body because the athletic or running shoe designs are similar to being barefoot.<br /><br />Because these companies have a vested interest in their shoe, they'll make great claims and sponsor studies and athletes to support their product marketing. In reality, the trend towards minimalist footwear is a step backwards in shoe design.<br /><br />Here's why some people like the minimalist shoe:<br /><ul><li>Weight: very light and compact</li><li>Perception: shoe buyers perceive the shoe is good for their feet and has high cool factor.</li><li>Direct Foot Power: there is no influence of the shoe in the push off portion of the stride.<br /></li></ul>Here's the problem with minimalist shoes:<br /><ul><li>Ancient Ancestry: For the tens of thousands of years humans have been walking, we've been barefoot or wearing minimal footwear. Most of those ancient steps were on natural earth, not concrete, asphalt, tile or other types of uniform hard surfaces. Historically most humans didn't live long enough to reap the results of wear and tear on their bodies. Modern middle-age until just the past hundred years or so was old-age for most of human kind.<br /></li></ul><ul><li>Excellent Biomechanics: Only athletes with both excellent gait technique AND bio-mechanics can excel with minimalist running shoes. Young athletes may feel fine with barefoot style shoes not realizing that they are running out of their personal biomechanical "grace period" that everybody has. When that grace period is up, wear and damage to the body sets up conditions that may lead to chronic injury and joint conditions.</li></ul><br />If you really want to experiment with minimalist footwear shoe technology, here are my suggestions:<br /><ul><li>Gradual Break In: Depending on the mileage you are doing, the break-in time from standard supportive athletic running shoes to barefoot style shoes could be as long as 3 to 6 months.</li><li>Running Surfaces: Avoid ANY hard unyielding surfaces. This includes natural surfaces such as rock paths.</li><li>Age Related Option: If you're middle age and older and want to experiment with barefoot running shoes, only run on soft beach or desert sand.<br /></li></ul><br />So, if you want to authentically go retro when buying running shoes, buy some good, North American made moccasins. North American Indians are still making moccasins like they have for thousands of years, with a few minor alterations to their technology. Though you can buy very expensive, handmade custom moccasins, my favorite moccasin company is Laurentian Chief. The Laurentian Chief moccasin company, based in Quebec, Canada still employs some workers of indigenous ancestry to make their ancient style of minimalist footwear.<br /><br />Remember, if you do get biomechanical strain, see me at <a href="http://www.footform.com/">www.Footform.com</a>. I've experimented with making my own moccasins and used them with and without orthotics.<br /><a href="http://www.footform.com/">www.Footform.com</a><br />541-389-4547<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">NOTE:Laurentian Chief does not sell direct to the public. One company I found on the web that is very invested in the Laurentian moccasin line is </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.getoutsideshoes.com/about.php">Get Outside Shoes</a><span style="font-style: italic;"> in Toronto, Canada. They ship to the U.S.<br /><br />If there are any other moccasin shoe companies that manufacture their moccasins in North America, let us know and we will add you to this blog entry.</span>Randall Barnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10388868912575828431noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-59948063690242552452009-07-30T21:05:00.000-07:002009-09-29T21:29:17.502-07:00Know When to Change Heels for Athletic Shoes and You'll Save Your Feet<div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_N1jADTFiPrA/SmiNgenXBvI/AAAAAAAABmw/mNloAhps1wk/s1600-h/Heel+and+Athletic+Shoe+C.Acosta.jpg"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_N1jADTFiPrA/SmiNgenXBvI/AAAAAAAABmw/mNloAhps1wk/s400/Heel+and+Athletic+Shoe+C.Acosta.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361690945498056434" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 315px; height: 400px;" border="0" /></a>Wearing dress shoes is OK for special occasions, but remember to keep your athletic shoes in your bag so you can change when you need to save your feet. My wife, <a href="http://www.cristinaacosta.com/">Cristina Acosta</a>, took this photo of a woman changing her shoes from heels to Nikes at the entrance to the Little Rock, Arkansas airport. <div><br /></div><div>If you have to walk any significant distances and carry or pull weight (such as luggage or groceries), you'll be putting a lot of stress on your feet and your body. The proper footwear in this situation, a good brand of athletic shoes, enables you to walk better and balance the strain in your body. Not only will you ensure foot comfort, you'll keep your feet healthy and free of injuries.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.footform.com/">www.Footform.com</a></div><div><span style="font-style: italic;">Note: Footform custom shoe inserts will make most any shoe more comfortable, but there are limits. So, when in doubt, be kind to your feet and change your shoes to comfort footwear. No pain, no complain!</span><br /></div></div>Randall Barnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10388868912575828431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-35983347362505499952009-07-13T17:54:00.000-07:002009-09-29T21:12:42.189-07:00Orthotics and Renewable Resources<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_396wQS9mwio/SlvZI_0WEEI/AAAAAAAAAO8/EN3845qXyzM/s1600-h/Cork+Tree+-+Cristina+Acosta.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_396wQS9mwio/SlvZI_0WEEI/AAAAAAAAAO8/EN3845qXyzM/s320/Cork+Tree+-+Cristina+Acosta.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5358114930280501314" border="0" /></a>I've been dedicated to making safe custom foot orthotics or shoe inserts for decades. In the 1990's, I was motivated to make custom orthotics that last a long time. Most off-the-shelf shoe inserts or orthotics only last a few months before the orthotics materials compress out of shape and lose their shock absorption and supportive qualities.<br /><br />My artisan made custom orthodics have a lifespan of five to ten years if the clients foot hasn't drastically changed. I succeeded with my goal of producing very long lasting custom orthotic arch supports that absorb shock while supporting the foot and increasing foot comfort. Footform shoe inserts are ideal for treating the flat foot, plantar fasciitis and other foot problems. Inserted into a well designed shoe such as a good athletic shoe that is right for my client, a custom orthotic and athletic shoe combination may be as good as or better than available orthopedic shoes.<br /><br /><span class="caption">We sell our brand of visco-elastic polymer mixed with cork, VISCORK™. </span><span class="caption">I developed these arch support orthotics materials that I package and sell through my business, Footform Labs. Visco based materials have tested superior to all other orthotic materials yet they are rare because the first-generation fabrication methods were difficult and unconventional.<br /><br /></span><span class="caption">There is only one known competitor to our material, which is PQ™. </span><span class="caption">I developed a visco fabrication method with Footform® Mold Shells that is an extremely simple system to make custom shoe inserts. Also, it is the only known method to thermo-form Poron®. Our VISCORK™ material has many advantages: easy grinding, low odor, no hazard rating, lightweight, simple 50-50-100 mix ratio, and less expensive. Our VISCORK is a perfect modern replacement of old-fashioned rigid orthotics technology. And, cork is a renewable resource. It's a win-win for our Footform clients, us and our planet!<br /><br />Orthotics Manufacturers, Podiatrists, Chiropractors, Physical Therapists and other medical professionals can order our low hazard and safe foot orthotic supplies at 541-389-4547. We formulate, mix, assemble and ship all of our custom orthotics materials from Bend, Oregon. Made in the U.S.A.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.footform.com/">www.Footform.com</a></span><br /><br />photo:<a href="http://www.cristinaacosta.com/"> Cristina Acosta</a>Randall Barnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10388868912575828431noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-36834674086180935492009-06-16T07:50:00.000-07:002009-06-16T08:14:04.111-07:00Walk Before You RunAccording to the journal <a href="http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/v459/n7243/full/nature07989.html"> Nature,</a> the skeleton of a small hominid on the Island of Flores in Indonesia is revealing many clues about modern human existence, including how our feet evolved. <div><br /></div><div>New York Times writer, John Noble Wilfod wrote extensively about this discovery in his article,</div><div>"<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/27/science/27foot.html?_r=1&scp=3&sq=john%20noble%20wilford&st=cse">Prints Show a Modern Foot in Prehumans.</a>" Here's a quote from the article that I think is fascinating:</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px; "><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">The footprints discovered in Kenya, researchers said, indicated that the erectus foot functioned much as a human foot does: the heel contacts the ground first; weight transfers along the arch to the ball of the foot; and the push-off is applied by the forefoot. In apes and apparently earlier hominids, this force comes from the midfoot.</span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">The discovery is “even more explicit evidence,” Dr. Harris said, that the erectus species extended its range into more diversified habitats, camping and discarding stone tools at sites far from the sources of the stone. . . </span></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">This history shows that foot development over thousands of years promoted the development of humankind. With the rise of modern transportation, modern walking surfaces and the fashion shoe choices we make, our feet function in an environment very different from our evolutionary history. </span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">With this in mind, pay attention to your gait. Remember when walking to keep your feet straight and a slight bend to your knees with every step. Your feet will take you places our ancestors never dreamed possible.</span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 16px;"><a href="http://www.Footform.com">www.Footform.com</a></span></p><p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 13px; font-style: italic;"><br /></span></p></span><div><br /></div><div><br /><div><br /></div></div></div>Randall Barnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10388868912575828431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-3554519182715898832009-05-28T08:09:00.000-07:002009-05-28T09:11:00.330-07:00Save Money on Your Athletic ShoesThe old maxim, "It fits like an old shoe," doesn't mean "it's" good for you. Old athletic shoes, even if the uppers look good, wear down where the foot has stressed them. The insole packs down and is no longer functional. This is especially true of athletic shoes. <div><br /><div><div>The proper athletic shoe for your foot along with a good orthotic may reduce repetitive strain injuries, the bane of any athlete or casual exerciser who works out regularly.</div><div><br /></div><div>Athletic shoes are no longer as functional and supportive after roughly 500 miles. Active people walk about 5 miles per day. If you're wearing your sports shoes as your everyday shoes, be sure to add this mileage to your training mileage. As a general rule, a pair of well used athletic shoes has about 100 days of use. After that, the shoes have compressed cushioning (especially in the midsole) and have developed wear patterns that can accentuate poor gait and stance habits.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Here are a few tips to extend the life of your athletic shoes and save money:</div><div><ul><li>Footform orthotics extend the life of your shoes by spreading out pressures more evenly throughout the shoe. </li><li>Date your shoe when you start to use it (with a permanent marker) and half-way through the shoe's life add a new pair to your closet and alternate use between the 2 pairs. Continue to stagger the use of your shoes, throwing out the old pair.</li></ul><div>At Footform Performance Center in Bend, Oregon, you can set a half-hour appointment for gait analysis and shoe consulting. Call my office 541-389-4547.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Note: Some specialty athletic shoe stores will recycle old athletic shoes. </span></div><div><a href="http://www.Footform.com/">www.Footform.com</a><br /></div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div></div>Randall Barnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10388868912575828431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-43558878382669360632009-05-12T08:06:00.000-07:002009-05-28T09:11:24.976-07:00Balance Everyday with Easy 1 Minute ExerciseTipping over is a problem as we age. Toddlers tip over often as they walk, getting better and better at not falling as they practice. Most of us go through life on the walking and standing skills we developed as a child. We don't realize that balance is a learned skill, something we have to practice and nurture. If we don't practice our balance skills, as we age tipping over may start to happen again. Only with age, the consequences of falling can be dire.<div><br /></div><div>Balance requires always moving to find balance. It's a subtle thing. Even though a person may appear to be perfectly still as they stand, muscles and nerves are constantly working to maintain equilibrium. Staying centered takes awareness.</div><div><br /></div><div>Practice your balance skills with these easy tips: This exercise can take as little as 10 seconds. Repeat the exercise throughout your day.</div><div><ul><li>Keep Moving: Practice bending your knees different amounts while you walk and stand.<br /></li><li>While standing, practice shifting your weight in this order:(Both feet hip width apart, pointing straight ahead)</li></ul><ol><li>Toe - Heel - Back to Center</li><li>Shift Right - Shift Left - Back to Center</li><li>Roll to the Outside of the Foot - Roll to the Inside of the Foot - Back to Center</li></ol></div><div><a href="http://www.footform.com/">www.Footform.com</a></div><div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Randall Barnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10388868912575828431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-50384138874626380492009-02-27T07:15:00.000-08:002009-02-27T08:20:02.795-08:00Get Off Your Butt and on Your FeetScientists that include a group of paleontologists and students directed by John W.K. Harris of Rutgers University in collaboration with the National Museums of Kenya have found the oldest evidence of a human footprint, one they've dated at approximately 1.5 million years ago.<div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/27/science/27foot.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=john%20noble%20wilford%20modern%20foot%20&st=cse">The New York Times article, <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Prints Show a Modern Foot in </span></a><a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/27/science/27foot.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=john%20noble%20wilford%20modern%20foot%20&st=cse"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Prehumans</span></a><a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2009/02/27/science/27foot.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=john%20noble%20wilford%20modern%20foot%20&st=cse"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">,</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>by John Noble Wilford, details the discovery that helps to explain that "human ancestors had adapted the ability for long-distance walking and running."</div><div><div><br /></div><div>If the recent trends for human activity continue, finding footprints will be harder than ever. In most of the U.S. human kind is spending more time on their butts.</div><div><br /></div><div>Walking and running were a huge advantage is the evolution of human kind. The best walkers and runners prospered from their improved opportunities being upright and agile. A good stride and the ability to move easily could make the difference between life and death. </div><div><br /></div><div>Things have changed. Except for the athletes among us, most Americans are no longer moving their bodies the way they were designed to be moved. We've become a culture addicted to screen-time and the result could be deadly. </div><div><br /></div><div>For the first time in America, it's likely that if obesity trends persist, this generation of young people will die at a younger age that their parents. Currently one third of all American's under age 18 are either overweight or obese. Eighty percent of the youth that are obese grow up to become obese adults.</div><div><br /></div><div>This information is so disturbing that my family supports the <a href="http://healthiergeneration.org/about.aspx">Alliance for a Healthier Generation</a>, an alliance between the American Heart Association and the William J. Clinton Foundation to combat childhood obesity. My daughter,<a href="http://isabellabarna.blogspot.com/"> Isabella Acosta Barna</a> is a volunteer on the <a href="http://healthiergeneration.org/teens.aspx">Alliance's Youth Advisory Board</a> and encourages other kids to live a healthy lifestyle. You can read about her activities on<a href="http://isabellabarna.blogspot.com/"> her blog.</a> </div><div><br /></div><div>I believe strongly that a healthy, strong foot and optimal gait are part of the foundation of a healthy life. I write this blog to help people realize the importance of foot health and how to achieve their best results.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.Footform.com">www.Footform.com</a></div><div>Call for an appointment: 541-389-4547</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Randall Barnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10388868912575828431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-25905265417832378732009-02-19T08:08:00.001-08:002009-05-28T09:12:18.375-07:00Sports Pedorthist - Supporting the Athlete and Active PersonA lot of people don't know what a Certified Pedorthist is or does. Pedorthics is a specialty in foot orthotics and shoes. It's often confused with Podiatrist. The difference is that Podiatrists are doctors treating a variety of foot related ailments, including doing minor surgeries and prescribing drugs. Podiatrists also prescribe and provide orthotics. <div><br /></div><div>The big difference between getting orthotics from a Pedorthist (me), rather than a Podiatrist is that the Pedorthist is a specialist who usually fabricates the orthotic and fits it into shoes. Podiatrists usually send out their orthotics for fabrication. Because of cost and insurance issues, many Podiatrists and Pedorthists are turning to the less effective pre-fabricated, off - the - shelf orthotics.</div><div><br /></div><div>The majority of Pedorthists across the U.S. focus on the diabetic foot problem. But, there is a small niche in pedorthics called Sports Pedorthists. Regionally (the Pacific Northwest), I am a widely known Sports Pedorthist, and operate my <a href="http://www.footform.com/">Footform Performance Orthotics Center</a> in Bend, Oregon. Though I do make orthotics for clients with diabetes and other maladies, my specialty is custom orthotics for the active person with repetitive strain injuries and issues.</div><div><br /></div><div>Sports Pedorthists have the skills to fit orthotics into specialty athletic shoes, such as ski boot orthotics, skating orthotics, cycling orthotics, running orthotics and golf orthotics. Maybe you're thinking that, "Hey, anybody can put an orthotic in a shoe." Here's the answer. A Sports Pedorthist spends a lot of time analyzing the athletes biomechanics, their sport and their footwear. Fitting the orthotics into the specialty shoe correctly makes a huge positive difference to the athlete's performance and relief of strain.</div><div><br /></div><div>At<a href="http://www.footform.com/"> Footform Performance Orthotics</a> center, in Bend, Oregon, our foot orthotics price includes 2 one-hour appointments to ensure the best result. </div><div><br /></div><div>Bend, Oregon is a vacation area and many of my clients visit Bend for a vacation or to participate in one of the many races and sports events in Bend. They'll get their orthotics while they are here. I have many clients from around the country that will get their foot molds on file with me, then have me mail them duplicate orthotics over the years. </div><div><br /></div><div>Call my <a href="http://www.footform.com/">Footform Sports Orthotics</a> clinic in Bend, Oregon for an appointment, 541-389-4547.</div><div>Email: Randall@Footform.com</div><div>website: <a href="http://www.footform.com">www.Footform.com</a></div>Randall Barnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10388868912575828431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-13167939059825460472009-02-11T07:00:00.000-08:002009-02-11T09:03:22.115-08:00Our Orthotics Materials are Enviro-Safe<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_N1jADTFiPrA/SZMDLXsp5VI/AAAAAAAABPo/Ku8TY624Ig0/s1600-h/FF_materials.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 167px; height: 126px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_N1jADTFiPrA/SZMDLXsp5VI/AAAAAAAABPo/Ku8TY624Ig0/s320/FF_materials.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301584680219960658" /></a><br /><div>All of our Footform foot orthotics are artisan made in our labs. That means that not only are the technicians making the foot insoles exposed to the orthotics materials, but that any pollutants present are released into the local area.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>In the old days orthotics were made out of a rigid plastic known as rohadur. Rohadur was banned due to it's harmful environmental impact. The substance also lacked shock absorbing properties. Rohadur was old and bad technology.</div><div><br /></div><div>My Footform orthotics are made from non-toxic polyurethanes and cork (a renewable resource).</div><div><br /></div><div>Many years ago, before it was cool (in the early 1990's) I developed my current enviro-safe orthotics materials and fabrication process. Here's why: I personally make orthotics and work with the materials, as well as supply colleagues with the visco elastic polymer orthotics supplies so that they can fabricate orthotics. It's important to me that the technicians have a safe working environment. Also, during those years, my wife and baby were in the office during much of the day, and I wanted to ensure their health. An added plus is that my Footform orthotics last for many years (5 to 10 years) and I am confident that my clients are using a safe product. </div><div><br /></div><div>If you're looking for a safe and effective orthotics material, contact me and I will talk with you about my orthotics materials and supplies. I named the product Viscork (TM), and it is packaged for distribution. </div><div><br /></div><div>Randall Barna 541-389-4547</div><div><a href="http://www.Footform.com/">www.Footform.com</a></div><div><br /></div>Cristina Acostahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02907255094642741458noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-6416324803436086532009-01-22T17:22:00.000-08:002009-05-28T09:13:19.628-07:00Keep Your Balance on Your Feet and In Your LifeHaving good balance keeps you from falling down. And I'm not only talking about tripping and falling. Balance goes beyond your feet and relates to your life. A commitment to balance in all things helps with your life. Balance is all about movement, continually finding that sweet-spot between two extremes.<div><br /></div><div>Here's an example: Imagine a teeter-totter or see-saw, the children's toy in many playgrounds. If one side is over-loaded the teeter-totter gets stuck on one side and movement stops. The eventual outcome of less movement for the human body is a sedentary life that can result in a wheelchair. <br /><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Physical skills for balance: </span>(Here are the 2 main skills most of us have.)</div><div><ul><li>Feel for the ground: Sensing your foot you are aware of where the pressures of your weight is on your foot. The more foot you have on the ground, the more stable you are in most cases. Experiment with movement heel-to-toe and inner-to-outer side of your foot, especially when walking.</li><li>Vision: Most people rely on their vision for balance. When vision tilts the body corrects. Try closing your eyes and walking around (in a safe place) to see how much you rely on your vision.</li><li>Inner Ear: Not under our control.</li></ul></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Our goal is to use both visual skills and your feel for the ground. Here are some tips to improve your balance:</span></div><div><ul><li>Walk backwards: Your feel for the ground is enhanced because you can't see where you're going.<br /></li><li>Orthotics: The point of a foot orthotic is to increase your feel for the ground (not just cushion your foot). The exact 3-D matching contour between orthotic and foot helps you sense any movements and to make adjustments so that you keep your balance.<br /></li></ul><div><a href="http://www.Footform.com/">www.Footform.com</a></div></div></div>Randall Barnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10388868912575828431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-77071652670751668492008-12-09T07:56:00.000-08:002009-09-29T21:23:47.223-07:00Flat Feet, High Arches or Pronating, What is Your Foot Type?Most of my clients are surprised to learn that there are generally 9 factors that determine a person's foot type. I say generally, because there are always exceptions to any organizing system. As a <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Certified Pedorthist </span>of almost 2 decades and fitting technical athletic footwear since 1970, I've seen many different types of feet. I've developed this list to categorize feet so that I can most quickly identify a orthotic client's concerns and help them. Here are the 9 factors:<div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Foot Physiology</span>: <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></div><div><ul><li>Low Arch foot with Flexible Joints<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> (sometimes referred to as a flat foot)</span></li><li>High Arch foot with Stiff Joints</li><li>Neutral Arch foot with Moderate Joint Movement</li></ul></div><div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Foot Shape: </span></div><div><ul><li>Oblique Toe (Big toe is longer and foot tapers angularly to the small toes).</li><li>Square Toe (Little toes are exceptionally long and big toe is short - The toes are close to the same length).</li><li>Round Toe (Second toe extends longer than the big toe).</li></ul></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Volume</span>:<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"> How thick or thin your feet are. Including how much tissue the foot has and how big the bones are of the foot.</span><br /></div><div><ul><li>Low volume (Foot could be wide or narrow, but there isn't much bulk to the foot.)</li><li>Mid Volume (Foot is well proportioned.)</li><li>High Volume (Foot is thick, bulky, large boned)</li></ul><div>The reason it is important to know that there are nine classifications of feet is to identify the key characteristics of your foot type so that you can focus on comfort footwear or sports performance features that best suit your foot type.</div><div><br /></div><div>Often a person will choose a shoe based on looks or the advice of a friend, and not really have any idea if the shoe properly fits their foot. As you can see from the list of foot characteristics, there are many variables involved with shoe fitting and depending upon the type of foot you have, you may not easily find the best shoe for your foot without some professional advice.</div><div><br /></div><div>At<a href="http://www.footform.com/"> Footform Performance Center</a> in Bend, Oregon, we analyze feet, mold and make custom foot orthotics (shoe inserts), then fit the orthotics into the client's footwear. Part of our orthodics service includes shoe consultation and recommendations. Footform custom shoe inserts increase foot comfort and sports performance. I am also available to consult to the shoe industry to create footwear that is designed for the widest variety of foot types.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Call or contact Footform Performance Center, 541-389-4547, 345 SW Century Dr., Bend, OR</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Randall@Footform.com</span></div></div><div><br /></div></div>Randall Barnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10388868912575828431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-75619155500147535342008-12-03T08:12:00.000-08:002008-12-09T08:37:35.828-08:00Why are Custom Orthotics Better for You than Off the Shelf FootbedsClients will sometimes ask me what the difference is between prefabricated foot orthotics and custom foot orthotics, even sometimes claiming that both orthotics feel the same. Though there is that rare person that has the exact foot match to a generic orthotic contour, usually a person is responding to the cushion of the foot orthotic, a trait that doesn't have a lot to do with performance of the footbed.<div><br /></div><div>Just to look a prefab foot orthotic is impressive. Mass production techniques often result in a snazzy looking foot orthotic (also called a insole or footbed). Despite the appearance and marketing, a pre-made foot orthotic is generic. The cushiony feel of most pre-fab insoles helps to cover up the lack of a perfect fit.</div><div><br /></div><div>What really counts when you buy a foot orthotic is the arch contour and how the orthotic fits into the shoe. A foot orthotic you put in your shoe is there to optimally guide your foot so that you can make changes and adjustments in your foot position.</div><div><br /></div><div>A pre-fab orthotic or insole is low-performance (despite the appearance) because since the contours of the orthotic are generic, you won't notice that your foot is out of position until the movement is obvious. </div><div><br /></div><div>A custom made foot orthotic is high-performance because of the exact fit with the contours of your foot. Every move your feet make, you can feel. This is important, because when your foot is moving well, fatigue, over-use and injuries are reduced.</div><div><br /></div><div>The next step to a successful application of an orthotic is to fit it into a shoe. This requires cutting and grinding skills that fit the foot orthotic into the existing contours of your shoe. It also requires that you are wearing the best shoes for you feet. My next post will be about foot types and shoes.</div><div><br /></div><div>When you buy a custom foot orthotic you should buy them from a trained technician who can tell you about the optimal use of your foot. They'll educate you about the types of shoes you should wear for your foot type and also fit the orthotic into the shoe. They will give you stance and gait training so that you can get the best out of your foot orthotic.</div><div><br /></div><div>At Footform Performance Center we give you that kind of orthotic, shoe and gait training service. Your foot orthotics will both be effective and last for years (rather than most pre-made foot orthotics that compress out of shape within months then live forever in the landfill).</div><div><br /></div><div>Call or contact <a href="http://www.footform.com/">Footform Performance</a> in Bend, Oregon for an appointment. 541-389-4547</div>Randall Barnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10388868912575828431noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-53632418200692041672008-11-19T07:52:00.000-08:002009-09-29T22:18:23.942-07:00Custom Ski Boot Fitting<div>Fun and pain don't go together if you want to excel in sports. Of all of the sport footwear that can really hurt your feet, ski boots are at the top list. Finding a solution to alleviate painful ski boots takes an experienced technician. Custom ski boot fitting is the solution.</div><div><br /></div><div>In 1966 I was a <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Certified Ski Technician </span><span class="Apple-style-span">in Bend, Oregon</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">.</span> I went on to manage, then own a ski shop and spent decades in the ski business before I became a <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Board Certified Pedorthist</span>. It was a long time ago, and I've learned a lot since then, following snow sports of all types through their life cycles.<br /><br />During most of the 20th Century, Alpine Downhill skiing was the dominant snow sport. By the 1990's diversity was the trend and now people are on the snow in a variety of ski boots. Custom fitting snow-sport boots is my favorite specialty.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">My custom snow sport and custom ski boot fitting service at Footform Orthotics Center in Bend, Oregon is: (We do this process quickly and efficiently because we charge by the hour.)</span></div><div><ol><li>Analyze the boot fitting problem during the appointment which includes a full professional foot exam. </li><li>Isolate the fit problem determining the footwear compatibility with the foot.</li><li>Perform alterations.</li><li>Ski Boot Canting - Check for cant angles and alignment.<br /></li><li>After the custom shoe or boot alterations are done, the client tries the ski boot, skate boot or snowboard boot out on the snow.</li><li>If necessary, the client returns for a short visit to get the fit tweaked.</li></ol></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">At the Footform Performance Clinic in Bend, Oregon I custom fit the following snow riding boots: Footform custom orthotics are included in the process unless the client has an orthotic that is acceptable.<br /></span></div><div>Telemark Ski Boots, AT Boots, Alpine Downhill Ski Boots, Nordic Cross Country Ski Boots, Nordic Skate Boots, Snowboard Boots.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>We also sell the Daleboot for Alpine Downhill Skiing. The Daleboot can be a custom fit ski boot with custom shell modifications and thermo formed ski boot liners combined with custom ski boot foot orthotics. The Daleboot can accomodate the wide ski boot customer with alterations. My price includes my custom orthotic footbed for the ski boot. The Daleboot is the ONLY ski boot made in the U.S.A., which means that if a client has a particularly challenging fit problem, it is more likely to be solved in my office by customizing both the ski boot shell, liner and ski boot footbed. Because I work in partnership with the Daleboot factory to fit my client, true custom ski boot fitting is possible in a variety of ski boots size.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Call us at the Footform Performance Clinic 541-389-4547 to set your snow sport and custom ski boot fitting appointment. We're located at 345 SW Century Drive in Bend, Oregon. Century Drive/14th Street is the road to Mt. Bachelor ski area. Get a ski boot fit and test it on the mountain during your visit to Bend, Oregon.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.footform.com/">www.Footform.com</a></div>Randall Barnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10388868912575828431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-83729752576987884862008-11-05T07:46:00.000-08:002008-11-05T08:11:20.603-08:00Growing Pains: Why Kids ComplainKids complain about pain in the back of their legs -- calf and hamstring muscles. Commonly referred to as <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">growing pains</span>, these twinges occur because bones grow at a much faster pace than muscles. The problem that youth (ages 10-16) have as they grow is that as soon as their muscles start getting tight during and after a growth spurt, they compensate for the muscle tightness with actions such as toe-walking and pronating. <div><div><ul><li>Toe-walking - not "tiptoe" walking, but a stride where the heel does not touch the ground. The pivot point in the stride is at the forefoot instead of the ankle.</li><li>Pronating: The mid-foot collapses inward and gives the appearance of ankle bend, but is really stress on the foot. </li></ul></div><div>These gait compensations create strains in the tendons connecting muscles to the foot (plantar fascia and achilles tendon). Then the muscles that attach up the leg become tighter, hence a kid will experience more growing pains. Muscles need to be used, stretched and worked to grow bigger and longer. (This is true at anytime of life.)</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">When a youth has growing pains, here's what you do:</span></div><div><ul><li>Explain to them what's going on.</li><li>Keep them in physically active recreation or sports that don't have a lot of sitting-around time.</li><li>Teach them this simple stretch: Sit on the floor with your legs straight out in front of you and your feet against a wall or piece of furniture. With your back straight, use your hands to push your torso forwards until you feel a stretch. Hold this 30 seconds. Repeat 3 times.</li><li>Remember: Feet straight, bend your knees (just a little) as you walk and stand.</li></ul><div><a href="http://www.Footform.com">www.Footform.com</a></div></div></div>Randall Barnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10388868912575828431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-30941605455231473992008-10-31T08:01:00.000-07:002008-10-31T08:13:43.397-07:00Fallen Arches - Fact or Fallacy?Is there such a thing as "fallen arches"? Usually when people say they have <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">flat feet</span> or <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">fallen arches</span>, they have flexible feet, though there are exceptions.<div><br /></div><div>The plantar fascia band on the bottom of the foot is similar to the bow-string of an archery bow. Over many years the plantar fascia band may gain length. Partially this is true because of <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">bony</span> growth called a heel or bone spur.</div><div><br /></div><div>Another result of this fascia lengthening is that people think their feet are growing longer, but they didn't "grow". With the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">loosening</span> plantar fascia band the foot elongates or spreads out. This is especially common if a person has put on a lot of weight. </div><div><br /></div><div>Oddly enough, the most flattening of the foot occurs on hard flat man surfaces. If you step in sand or soft earth, even a flexible foot is firmer than the ground, so instead of the foot giving to the ground, the ground gives-in to the foot. This is why Footform custom orthotics mimic the natural footprint in sand, so that the foot remains in a natural state while weight-bearing.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.footform.com">www.Footform.com</a></div>Randall Barnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10388868912575828431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-14364162077933542762008-10-20T07:00:00.000-07:002008-10-20T08:49:08.315-07:00Prevent Fractures: Tips for Better BalanceHave you ever lost your balance? Of course you have, and it's usually no big deal. But if loosing your balance results in a fall, the result can be serious. According to a recent Swedish study, impaired balance is associated with triple the risk of hip fracture! <div><br /></div><div>As we age, bones may become more brittle and the risk for fractures increases. As a person gets more sedentary and moves less in their life, they lose flexibility and balance along with other types of fitness. This can happen regardless of a person's age, and is especially important for older people. <div><br /></div><div>Balance requires mobility in motion. Have you ever balanced a yardstick or pole vertically on the palm of your hand? You'll notice that to keep the pole vertical you must move your hand around. If you hold your hand still, the pole falls off your hand.</div><div><br /></div><div>So how does this relate to keeping your balance as you're standing "still". Well, when you stand, if you keep your knees soft (slightly bent), your pelvis/hips are free to move. Your potential for mobility is increased. If you lock your knees (keep them straight), you lose mobility, and your balance worsens. This is a subtle difference, but a difference that is very important as we age. </div><div><br /></div><div>The ASBMR (American Society for Bone and Mineral Research) published the article, <a href="http://www.medpagetoday.com/MeetingCoverage/ASBMR/10905">Lack of Balance Predicts Fractures.</a> They cited a recent medical study in Sweden, and Karl Michaelsson, M.D., P.H.D., of the Uppsala University Hospital in Uppsala Sweden. In the study, impaired balance was associated with double the risk of any fracture!</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Here are some tips to improve your balance as you stand:</span></div><div><ul><li>Bend your knees a little EVERY time you stand AND Walk.</li><li>Keep your hips loose. Visualize the Hula dance and practice bending your knees and moving your hips in circles.</li><li>Feel the ground with your feet. Concentrate on "sinking" your weight through your feet into the ground.</li></ul></div><div>For advanced practice, do all of the above while standing on one foot. Be sure to alternate feet.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.footform.com/">www.Footform.com</a></div></div>Randall Barnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10388868912575828431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-556458199408968942008-10-16T06:00:00.000-07:002008-10-16T06:00:01.324-07:00Using Gait Analysis to Spot TerroristsThe scientists at JPL (NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab in Pasadena, California) have taken gait analysis to a new high. So high, that scientist Adrian Stoica says it should be possible to identify a person (from a satellite) by the shapes and patterns their shadow makes as they walk across the earth. At least, this is what <a href="http://technology.newscientist.com/channel/tech/mg19926725.800">New Scientist Tech</a> reported in their article, <span style="font-style: italic;">Shadow Analysis could Spot Terrorists by their Walk</span>, Sept. 4, 2008. Stoica claims that satellite and aerial footage could be analyzed to extract the useful gait data necessary to catch a terrorist from the sky.<br /><br />Yes, it's true that a person can be identified (more or less) by his gait, though it's not a fingerprint, more of a generalization. But the problem is with the premise behind this effort that says people cannot easily disguise their gait. People can change their gait. Everyday at my Footform Performance clinic in Bend, Oregon, we train people to change their gait.<div><br /></div><div>Besides, this idea of satellite gait analysis seems like a really dumb idea that costs a lot of money. Every actor in a play or movie changes their gait to match their idea of the character they are playing. What happens if the person being looked for takes off his hat? Or puts one on? Maybe he'll wear a speedo one day and a raincoat the next. What happens if he opens an umbrella or walks over a pile of rocks? Gait Analysis from space is an unnecessary expenditure of brainpower and money.<br /><br />Set an appointment at Footform for gait training and gait analysis and you'll walk back and forth in front of and alongside a mirror as I coach you. No shadows and satellites. Just down to earth gait analysis. You'll feel better for only a fraction of the cost of an aerial photo.<br /><a href="http://%20www.Footform.com/"><br />www.Footform.com</a></div><div>call for your appointment 541-389-4547</div>Randall Barnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10388868912575828431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-54059528058146399832008-10-14T07:54:00.000-07:002008-10-14T08:31:19.075-07:00The Low-down on High Fashion Heels<div>Six inch dress heels for women are selling. In fact, according to today's article in <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; ">The Wall Street Journal</span>, <a href="http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122394215518830965.html">"Women Fall Head Over Heels for Shoe Makers' Arch Designs"</a>, by Teri Agins, this super-high segment of the shoe industry is selling so well that Manolo Blanik says it accounts for about 30% of his company's business.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Despite the craziness of fashion, the most disturbing thing to me was to read was that Podiatric Surgeons are injecting cosmetic fillers such as Restylane or Juvederm to plump up the balls of the feet (metatarsal area of the foot) in an effort to ease the painful pressures on the forefoot caused by these high heels.</div><div><br /></div><div>So here's what I have to say about these sky high shoes -- Don't wear them! Sprained ankles, artificial interventions (like injecting cosmetic fillers), and strained joints(from the gait change the shoes impose) can cause injuries that can impact your life for years.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you want to appear tall, improve your posture. But more than that, remember that others don't see you statically, like in a photograph or the way you see yourself in front of a mirror. People perceive your age and attractiveness before they ever get close enough to see if you have a wrinkle. How you carry yourself in motion can convey confidence, athleticism, flexibility and strength. </div><div><br /></div><div>High heels seen in motion promote the opposite of this. High heels hobble your body's motion and athleticism. You may think you look great standing still, but do you want to be hobbled and risk injury? Hobbling is defined as strapping together the legs of an animal (such as a horse)to slow it down and prevent it from straying, or to cause a person to limp. Psychologically, hobbling yourself for the sake of fashion creates a conflict between the fashion desires of your mind and the natural health of your body.</div><div><br /></div><div>Your body has a wisdom and intelligence that knows when it's being impaired by a terrible choice of footwear. Choose to look at fashions that hobble your movement as promoting weakness rather than strength.</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.footform.com">www.Footform.com</a></div><div><br /></div>Randall Barnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10388868912575828431noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108056594809844073.post-57605726201994546782008-10-09T05:00:00.000-07:002008-10-09T05:00:00.433-07:00Repetitive Strain Means its Time for a Change I used to watch the Canadian TV comedy program, <a href="http://www.redgreen.com/">The Red Green Show</a> (when my local <a href="http://www.opb.org">Oregon Public Broadcasting</a> OPB carried it). They often ended the show with a group of roughneck guys in the Possum Lodge repeating their credo, "I'm a man, but I can change, if I have to, I guess."<div><br /></div><div>To many people, change is a concept they resist. Repetitive strain injuries, such as plantar fasciitis, shin splints, etc., are small injuries that are repeated until they become chronic. Keep doing the same thing and the injury only gets worse. The solution is to change your gait and stance habits. <a href="http://nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/physics/laureates/1921/einstein-bio.html">Albert Einstein</a> is reported to have said, "The definition of insanity is to doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results."</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Here's the list of things you can do to eliminate repetitive strain by changing your habits:</span></div><div><ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Accept that you have to change.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Obtain the information/education that offers you an alternative to your usual habit.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Seek out training aids such as orthotics.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Think of a slogan or mantra to repeat to yourself as a reminder. My favorite reminder is, "Feet straight, bend the knees."</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Visualize proper form. Picture in your mind someone who's moving the way you would like to move and emulate that vision whenever you think about it.</span></li><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium;">Affirm to yourself that you are improving. My favorite mantra is, "I'm getting better and better."</span></li></ul></div><div><br /></div><div>Change takes time. Don't be too hard on yourself or expect to much too soon. Positive change happens daily, one step at a time.</div><div><br /></div><div>Read more of my<a href="http://footform.blogspot.com/search?q=gait+training"> Gait Training articles</a> on this blog.</div><div><a href="http://www.footform.com">www.Footform.com</a></div><div><br /></div>Randall Barnahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10388868912575828431noreply@blogger.com0