If your children are extra flexible, they may have joint hypermobility syndrome. You may have also heard hypermobility referred to as loose joints or double jointed. This is common in young children, but in some cases, can lead to problems like joint pain and injuries. Common Symptoms that your child may experience Include: Excessive motion at the joints Poor coordination and balance which can lead to falls, tripping and clumsiness Increased risk of injury Pain at the knees, hips, elbows and fingers Increased risk of joint dislocation and sprains Scoliosis of the spine Often confused with growing pains  Treatment  There are many ways a Podiatrist can help with hypermobility, below are some of the options Gait Way Podiatry can do to help: Strengthening – strengthening the foot, ankle and leg muscles by prescribing exercises that target specific muscle groups Correct Footwear – we will assess your current footwear and recommend appropriate footwear to support hyper mobile feet and legs.  Orthotics – an orthotic can be very beneficial at altering the loads and forces through the joints and can help with providing stability. They also help with restoring symmetry.  Related Conditions Children’s Foot & Leg Development Flat Feet in Children Hypermobility Ingrown Toenails on Babies & Children Intoeing (Pigeon Toes) Knock Knees School Shoes Severs Disease/Heel Pain Toe Walking Warts on Children’s Feet

Medically referred to as Genu Valgum , knock knees are common in children between the ages of three and seven. When a child with knock knees stands with their knees together, the feet and ankles stay apart. The legs will usually gradually straighten as the child grows, although mild knock knees can last into adulthood. If the severity of knock-knees increases or does not improve by age 10, then further evaluation and testing may be warranted. Related Conditions Children’s Foot & Leg Development Flat Feet in Children Hypermobility Ingrown Toenails on Babies & Children Intoeing (Pigeon Toes) Knock Knees School Shoes Severs Disease/Heel Pain Toe Walking Warts on Children’s Feet

Do you suffer with cracked sore heels? Try Silipos GeLuscious Moisturising Gel Socks. Made from bamboo charcoal. The bamboo in these socks contains pores making it excellent for absorbing odour-causing chemicals and controlling temperature. Moisturising socks condition dry calloused skin. The manufacturer recommends using these socks for 20 minutes, 3 times per week up to 40 treatments. The socks are washable and reusable, use mild soap for washing and hang to dry. Users with dry, callused feet will find the Silipos GelLuscious Moisturising Gel Socks excellent for moisturising their feet and controlling odour. Related Conditions Arch Pain Are Your Feet Ready For the Jetty to Jetty Fun Run? Bunions Claw Toes Foot Pain Investing in Tradespeople’s Health: Why It Matters Morton’s Neuroma Plantar Fasciitis PROLOTHERAPY Sesamoiditis Step Forward: Caring for Your Feet During National Diabetes Week 2024

Callus is thickened, hard skin that develops on the foot in areas that are subjected to increased friction or pressure. Corns appear as a thickening of the skin with a central hard core, these can develop on the pressure areas of the under surface of the foot or the tops of the toes. This thickening appears as a cone shaped mass pointing down into the skin and is often surrounded by callous. They are actually a normal and natural way for the body to protect itself (the soft tissues beneath the skin). When the pressure continues the skin gets thicker and becomes painful. This often feels as though you are “walking on pebbles”. There are three main types of corns or callus which occur on our feet: Callus can occur anywhere on the foot that is susceptible to increased pressure. It appears as a thickened diffuse area of hard skin which is yellowish in colour and can often have cracks within them. Hard corns are usually located on the outer surface of the little toe or on the upper surface of the other toes, but can occur between the toes as well as the bottom of the foot over a prominent bone or an area of high pressure. A soft corn occurs between the toes and often appears white and macerated. These can be aggravated by a tinea pedis (fungal) infection due to the moist nature of the soft corn. Main Contributing Factors. Deformities of the toes such as hammer toes, claw toes, bunions – all predispose the foot to areas of increased pressure. Tight or poor fitting footwear. Gait abnormalities which cause the foot to be overloaded in particular areas and bony prominences. Treatment Options The callus is reduced using a blade and the corn is enucleated in the same manner. It is usually a relatively painless procedure to remove the build up of skin. This should give you immediate relief. Footwear advice or modification can reduce the occurrence of callus and corns. If there is an underlying biomechanical abnormality that is a contributory case – orthotics may be considered. At Gait Way Podiatry we make custom orthotics on site in our laboratory at North Lakes. Related Conditions Arch Pain Are Your Feet Ready For the Jetty to Jetty Fun Run? Bunions Claw Toes Foot Pain Investing in Tradespeople’s Health: Why It Matters Morton’s Neuroma Plantar Fasciitis PROLOTHERAPY Sesamoiditis Step Forward: Caring for Your Feet During National Diabetes Week 2024

Dreading those first few steps in the morning or at the end of the day?  While the pain is worse first and last thing in the day, it can also be triggered from long periods of standing or when you get up from sitting. Interesting, the pain can be slight to non-existent during periods of exercise. Sounds familiar? You could be suffering from a condition called Plantar Fasciitis . What is Plantar Fasciitis? Plantar Fasciitis is the term that refers to inflammation (“-itis”) of the connective tissue (“Fascia”) under the base of the foot (“Plantar”). It usually occurs at the point where the plantar fascia originates at the heel bone. What causes Plantar Fasciitis? While there may be no obvious cause of the start of Plantar Fasciitis, there are a few factors that increase your risk at developing this condition. Age . Plantar fasciitis is most common (but not limited) to people between the ages of 40 and 60. Exercise . Activities that place a lot of stress on your heel (long distance running, dancing, HIT classes,  jumping) can all be contributing factors. Foot Mechanics . Flat feet, high arches or abnormal walking pattern Weight . Excess weight puts more pressure and stress on all your joints, ligaments and tendons, especially your plantar fascia in your feet. Occupation . Standing on hard surfaces can damage the plantar fascia, so it goes without saying that any occupation that requires long hours of standing or walking are at risk of developing plantar fasciitis. Treatment Where can I get help for Plantar Fasciitis? The big question is: “Should you see a GP, a Physiotherapist or a Podiatrist for plantar fasciitis heel pain?” Just like your dentist specialises in teeth and oral problems, podiatrists specialise in feet and heel pain problems. There are times when Physiotherapists and General Practitioners can work wonders for many problems, but your best first contact is a podiatrist experienced in the treatment of plantar fasciitis. Fortunately, the podiatrists at Gait Way Podiatry have over 45 years of combined experience in the treatment of plantar fasciitis and associated heel pain. Don’t delay, BOOK AN APPOINTMENT TODAY : (07) 3385 0567 The treatment you require depends on what we diagnose, but most common options include exercise, shockwave therapy, mobilisations or orthotics. What can I do at home to help my Plantar Fasciitis? Calf stretches – slow controlled stretches for at least 30 seconds against a wall is a simple yet effective way to help reduce strain on those heels. Footwear change – look to avoid completely flat shoes and those without any cushioning. One with both cushioning, support and a slight heel are ideal. Loose Weight – Weight loss is a great way to reduce the forces on your feet which applied to the heel also. What else could cause this heel pain? Your heel pain could be from a variety of conditions such as a heel spur, muscle tear, tendonitis or bursitis. Each condition needing a different diagnostic assessment and treatment, which is why it’s important to get an expert to diagnose the issue. So, if your heel pain has not responded to traditional therapy, there may be something else that has been missed, and the podiatrists at Gait Way Podiatry are trained to find these problems. BOOK AN APPOINTMENT TODAY: (07) 3385 0567 Our blogs are educational in nature and are not intended as a substitute for medical advice. Because your condition is unique to you, it is recommended that you consult with your health care provider before attempting any medical or therapeutic treatments. Related Conditions Arch Pain Are Your Feet Ready For the Jetty to Jetty Fun Run? Bunions Claw Toes Foot Pain Investing in Tradespeople’s Health: Why It Matters Morton’s Neuroma Plantar Fasciitis PROLOTHERAPY Sesamoiditis Step Forward: Caring for Your Feet During National Diabetes Week 2024

Empower your steps, and protect your health. National Diabetes Week: A Time for Awareness and Action From July 14 to 21, 2024, Australia will observe National Diabetes Week, a crucial time dedicated to raising awareness about diabetes and its wide-ranging impacts. At Gait Way Podiatry, we are committed to supporting this cause and empowering individuals with the knowledge and care they need to manage their health effectively. Understanding Diabetes Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body struggles to regulate blood sugar levels. There are two main types: Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the pancreas produces little to no insulin. Type 2 Diabetes: A metabolic disorder where the body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough. Both types require vigilant management to prevent complications, including those that affect the feet. How Does Diabetes Affect Your Feet? Diabetes can have a profound impact on foot health. High blood sugar levels can damage nerves and reduce blood flow, leading to several serious issues: Neuropathy: This nerve damage can cause numbness, making it difficult to feel injuries or infections. Poor Circulation: Reduced blood flow can delay healing and increase the risk of infections. Foot Ulcers: Open sores that can develop from minor cuts or injuries, potentially leading to severe infections. Podiatrists: Your Partners in Diabetes Care Regular visits to a podiatrist are essential for those living with diabetes. At Gait Way Podiatry, we offer comprehensive care to help you maintain healthy feet. Our services include: Routine Check-Ups: Regular examinations to monitor for changes and catch potential issues early. Foot Care Advice: Personalized guidance on proper footwear, hygiene, and injury prevention. Treatment of Complications: Expert care for ulcers, infections, and other foot problems. Take Action During National Diabetes Week This National Diabetes Week, take a proactive step towards better health: Schedule a Podiatry Visit: Book an appointment with a podiatrist to assess your foot health. Educate Yourself: Learn more about diabetes and its impact on the body. Spread Awareness: Share information with friends and family to help others understand the importance of diabetes care. Final Thoughts Gait Way Podiatry is here to support you every step of the way. By taking charge of your health and seeking professional care, we can assist you in the prevention of complications, allowing you to enjoy a better quality of life. Let’s make this National Diabetes Week a time of empowerment and positive action. For more information or to book an appointment, visit our website or contact us today. Together, we can make a difference. #DiabeticFootCare #NationalDiabetesWeekAustralia2024

Join us for a day of fitness and fun. Mark Your Calendars: July 21st, 2024 Hey, marathon runners, fitness enthusiasts, spectators, and walkers! Get ready for the most exhilarating event on the Redcliffe Peninsula. Whether you choose to walk or run, the Jetty 2 Jetty Fun Run is an event for all ages and levels, and it’s bigger and better than ever! What to Expect Whether you’re a seasoned marathon runner or someone who enjoys a leisurely walk, the Jetty to Jetty Fun Run has something for everyone, and don’t forget the kids! This event is designed to accommodate all ages and fitness levels, ensuring that everyone can join in the fun and excitement. Why You Should Participate: Fitness and Fun: Embrace a healthy lifestyle while enjoying a scenic route along the beautiful coastline. Community Spirit: Connect with fellow fitness enthusiasts, make new friends, and experience the vibrant community spirit. Inclusive Event: Whether you choose to walk or run, this event welcomes all participants, providing a supportive and encouraging atmosphere. Don’t Take Your Feet for Granted Your feet are your foundation, especially when participating in events like this. Here are a few tips to ensure your feet are in top shape for the big day: Proper Footwear: Invest in a good pair of running shoes that provide adequate support and comfort. Regular Check-Ups: Schedule regular visits to your podiatrist to address any foot issues before they become major problems. Foot Exercises: Incorporate foot-strengthening exercises into your routine to keep your feet strong and flexible. Join Us! Save the date and start your training now. The Jetty to Jetty Fun Run is an unforgettable experience that promises fitness, fun, and fantastic memories. We can’t wait to see you there! For more information on how a podiatrist can help with Gait and foot care, visit our website or contact us at Gait Way Podiatry on (07) 3385 0567 . Get ready to run, walk, and have a blast! #marathon #runnersfeet #runninggait

Health First: Prevent Foot Pain and Boost Productivity! Why Tradies’ Foot Health Matters August is Tradies National Health Month , a crucial time for professionals like you—plumbers, builders, electricians, carpenters, painters, decorators, roofers, concreters, landscapers, and bricklayers. So take a step back and evaluate your health, particularly your foot health. Long hours of standing, repetitive motions, and poorly fitting work boots can lead to a slew of problems: Illustration of normal foot and foot with bunions Bunions; Misaligned big toe joints that swell and become tender, causing the first joint of the big toe to slant outward and the second joint to angle toward the other toes. Bunions can be aggravated by shoes that are too narrow in the forefoot and toe. Surgery often needs to be performed to correct the problem. Hammertoe; Usually stemming from muscle imbalance, this condition occurs when the toe is bent into a claw-like position. Hammertoe can affect any toe, but most frequently occurs in the second toe, when a bunion slants the big toe toward and under it. So give them some space, don’t cramp the toes! Ingrown Toenails; When the corners or sides of the toenail dig painfully into the skin usually caused by improper nail trimming, but can also result from shoe pressure, injury, fungus infection, heredity, and poor foot structure. Women are more likely to have ingrown toenails than men, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need proper shoe styles and sizes. Neuroma; Neuromas are enlarged benign growths of nerves, most commonly between the third and fourth toes, caused by tissue rubbing against and irritating the nerves. Pressure from ill-fitting shoes or abnormal bone structure can also lead to this condition. Depending on the severity, treatments may include orthotics (shoe inserts), cortisone injections, and, in some cases, surgical removal of the growth. Plantar Fasciitis; The inflammation on the bottom of the foot that leads to heel and arch pain, often caused by foot injuries or improper foot mechanics. Treatments range from icing and foot exercises to prescription custom orthotics to correct the foot position and ease pain. Sesamoiditis; Inflammation or rupture of the two small bones (known as sesamoids) under the first metatarsal bone. Proper shoe selection and orthotics do help. Shin Splints; This pain on either side of the leg bone caused by muscle or tendon inflammation is related to excessive foot pronation but also may be related to a muscle imbalance between opposing muscle groups in the leg. Proper stretching before and after exercise and corrective orthotics for pronation can help prevent shin splints. Stress Fractures; Stress fractures are incomplete cracks in bone caused by overuse, a common condition for many tradies. With complete rest, stress fractures in the toes or bones of the foot can heal quickly and extra padding in shoes can help prevent the condition. Left untreated, stress fractures may become complete bone fractures, requiring casting and immobilization. Blisters; Most blisters on the feet are caused by friction that doesn’t require medical attention. New skin will form underneath the affected area and the fluid buildup in the blister is simply absorbed back into the tissue. You can soothe ordinary blisters with Vitamin E ointment or an aloe-based cream. If the fluid isn’t clear but becomes white or yellow, the blister is infected and will require medical attention. Corns and Calluses; Corns and calluses are protective layers of compacted, dead skin cells. They are caused by repeated friction from skin rubbing against bony areas or an irregularity in your shoe. The friction can often burn or be painful, which may be relieved by moleskin or padding on the affected areas. Never cut corns or calluses with any instrument, or apply home remedies, always seek a podiatrist’s instructions. Fungus; Otherwise called athlete’s foot and fungal nails, are the most common fungal problems with feet. A fungus is a common mold that thrives in dark, warm moist areas. On the feet, it can grow on and between toes, as well as on soles and under or around toenails. Fungal problems can be caused by the environment (socks, shoes, heat, and humidity) or weakened immunity from such disorders as diabetes. Chronic fungal infections are most common in adults, while children often experience acute fungal infections. Foot Odour; The feet and hands contain about 3,000 sweat glands per square inch, more than any other body part. There are two main reasons your feet get stinky; You wear shoes and your feet sweat. The interaction between your perspiration and the bacteria that thrive in your shoes and socks generates the odor. Address both your sweating and your footwear to relieve the issue. Smelly feet can also be caused by an inherited condition called hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, where males are predominantly at risk. Stress, medications, fluid intake, and hormonal changes can also increase the perspiration your body produces. Choosing the Right Work Boots The foundation of your health starts with your feet. Here’s how to select the best work boots: Choosing the Right Work Boots The foundation of your health starts with your feet. Here’s how to select the best work boots: Twist Test: Don’t be afraid to pick up the boot and give it a good twist. A sturdy boot should resist twisting and provide firm support to your foot. Proper Fit: Ensure the boot fits well from the get-go. There should be enough room for your toes to wiggle, but the heel should remain snug. Material Matters: Opt for breathable materials to keep your feet dry and comfortable throughout the day. Boost Comfort with Custom Foot Beds and Orthotics Custom footbeds and orthotics are game-changers regarding comfort and long-term foot health. Gait Way Podiatry are able to custom fit and make orthotics to your specific needs, offering: Enhanced Support Better Foot Alignment Reduced Pain and Discomfort Take Action Today Don’t wait until foot pain sidelines you. Make foot health a priority this National Health Month: Schedule a Podiatry Check-Up: Let experts assess your foot health and recommend solutions. Invest in Quality Footwear: Your feet deserve the best—choose wisely. Consider Custom Orthotics: For personalized comfort and support. Your feet are the foundation of your work. By taking proactive steps today, you can ensure they support you for many years to come. Gait Way Podiatry: Ensuring Tradies Stay on Their Feet.

Health First: Prevent Foot Pain and Boost Productivity! What protection do you need? There are many different kinds of safety boots; the best type for you will be the one that fits your trade’s specifications and tackles the particular risks you face on a daily basis. Think about: Safety Cap: Typically composed of steel, the safety cap serves as a shield around the boot’s toe box, preventing the toes from being crushed by falling or rolling objects. Composite Toe Boots have a reinforced toe like steel toe caps, but instead of using metal, the toe box is strengthened with materials like carbon fibre. A composite toe box won’t conduct electricity, they are more lightweight and perfect for electricians. A composite safety toe also has anti-corrosive, non-metallic, non-magnetic, and non-conductive properties. Composite cap won’t set off metal detectors, ideal for FIFO workers! Midsole Barrier: A layer of composite material, or kevlar, that acts as a barrier inside the shoe’s midsole to better stop sharp objects—like nails—from piercing the boot’s bottom. Non-Slip Sole: The soles of most boots provide a decent grip. However, to improve grip if you are frequently in contact with oil, muck, and dirt, think about using a sole with a deeper tread. Waterproofing: Although many safety boots have some degree of water resistance, the boot’s waterproof layer will keep your feet dry when working in damp conditions. This greatly enhances comfort and lowers your risk of blisters, fungal nail infections, athlete’s foot, and other conditions. Think about using a bellows tongue option as well to stop water from seeping into the boot around the laces. Electrical Protection: To guard against shock hazards when working near live electricity, make sure the boot you choose has an insulating sole. Anti-Static Protection: Safety boots that prevent static electricity from building up and exploding out of your boot are essential if you work near flammable or explosive items like fuel or flammable dust. Thermal Protection: Having thermal protection will assist avoid issues related to blood flow limits to the feet, such as chilblains, if you must work in extremely cold situations. Compliance: Remember to tick every item! Australian safety boot labels must prominently display compliance with Australian Standard 2210 (AS2210). Choosing the Right Work Boots The foundation of your health starts with your feet. Here’s how to select the best work boots: Twist Test: Don’t be afraid to pick up the boot and give it a good twist. A sturdy boot should resist twisting and provide firm support to your foot. Proper Fit: Ensure the boot fits well from the get-go. There should be enough room for your toes to wiggle, but the heel should remain snug. Material Matters: Opt for breathable materials to keep your feet dry and comfortable throughout the day. Boost Comfort with Custom Foot Beds and Orthotics Custom footbeds and orthotics are game-changers regarding comfort and long-term foot health. A podiatrist can help you select or design orthotics tailored to your specific needs, offering: Enhanced Support Better Foot Alignment Reduced Pain and Discomfort Take Action Today Don’t wait until foot pain sidelines you. Make foot health a priority this National Health Month: Schedule a Podiatry Check-Up: Let experts assess your foot health and recommend solutions. Invest in Quality Footwear: Your feet deserve the best—choose wisely. Consider Custom Orthotics: For personalized comfort and support. Your feet are the foundation of your work. By taking proactive steps today, you can ensure they support you for many years to come. Gait Way Podiatry: Ensuring Tradies Stay on Their Feet. #WorkBoots

Tradies, it’s time to put your best foot forward this National Health Month by prioritising foot health and productivity. The foundation of your overall well-being starts from the ground up, and a great pair of work boots can mean the difference between ending the day in comfort or in pain. Here’s everything you need to know about choosing the right tools for your feet. Health First: Prevent Foot Pain and Boost Productivity! Understanding your unique work environment is key to selecting the best protection for your feet. Different trades come with different hazards, and your boots should be tailored to address these specific risks. Safety footwear comes in a variety of styles, each offering unique benefits and protection. What Protection Do You Need? Here’s a rundown on the different features to consider when selecting the perfect pair of safety boots: Safety Cap: Traditional safety caps are typically made of steel and provide robust protection against falling or rolling objects. Alternatively, composite toe boots offer a lightweight and non-metallic option, perfect for those who might need to pass through metal detectors frequently, like FIFO workers. Midsole Barrier: A layer of composite material or kevlar within the midsole can be crucial for stopping sharp objects—like nails—from penetrating and injuring your feet. Non-Slip Sole: Most boots offer a decent grip, but if you deal with oil, muck, and dirt regularly, consider a sole with a deeper tread for improved grip. Waterproofing: For those working in damp conditions, waterproof boots are a must. They keep your feet dry and reduce the risk of issues like blisters, fungal nail infections, and athlete’s foot. Look for boots with a bellows tongue to keep water out around the laces. Electrical Protection: Choosing boots with an insulating sole can guard against shock hazards if you work near live electricity. Anti-Static Protection: Essential for those working with flammable or explosive materials, these boots prevent static electricity from building up and posing a risk. Thermal Protection: If you work in extremely cold environments, boots with thermal protection can help prevent cold-related conditions like chilblains. Compliance: Ensure that your safety boots comply with the Australian Standard 2210 (AS2210) for maximum safety assurance. #WorkBoots

Tradespeople play a crucial role in our society, working hard to build, fix, and maintain the infrastructure that we rely on every day. Whether you know a tradesperson, love one, or are one yourself, it’s important to recognize the value of investing in their health and well-being. Our Tradies often face physically demanding work environments, and the nature of their work can lead to various health risks. From the strains of heavy lifting to exposure to hazardous materials, tradespeople are vulnerable to a range of occupational health concerns. This is why it’s vital for both employers and the wider community to support and invest in the health of tradespeople. Absolutely! The well-being of tradespeople, including their feet, is of utmost importance. Tradespeople often spend long hours on their feet in physically demanding and challenging environments. The health of their feet directly impacts their ability to work effectively and can have long-term implications for their overall well-being. It’s essential for tradespeople to prioritise foot health and invest in quality footwear that provides adequate support and protection. Properly fitted, supportive footwear not only enhances comfort but also helps prevent injuries and reduce the risk of long-term foot problems. Taking regular breaks, stretching, and practicing foot care can also contribute to maintaining the health of tradespeople’s feet. Employers and industry stakeholders should also play a role in promoting foot health among tradespeople by providing access to suitable footwear, ergonomic work conditions, and education on the importance of foot care. Prioritizing the health of tradespeople’s feet is an investment in their overall well-being and productivity. At Gait Way Podiatry, we understand the importance of keeping those feet healthy and pain-free. Our team takes pride in providing the very best of care for your tradies’ feet, offering expert advice and custom footbeds to ensure maximum comfort and support. We assist in preventing and addressing foot-related issues, your tradies can rely on Gait Way Podiatry to keep them on their feet and feeling great all day long! Call NOW for a foot checkup!  (07) 3385 0567 #tradiesfootcare #WorkBoots

Improving Your Gait and Reducing Injuries When it comes to running and physical activity, our bodies often reveal unique characteristics and imbalances in movement. One way to identify and address these issues is through a detailed biomechanical analysis of your gait. This specialised analysis, conducted by podiatrists, can uncover abnormalities and imbalances that may be affecting your running form and increasing your risk of injury. During a biomechanical analysis, podiatrists will carefully observe and assess your gait, looking for any signs of irregular movement or imbalances. By examining factors such as foot strike, stride length, and joint alignment, they can gain valuable insights into how your body moves while running or walking. Gait Analysis The PodoSmart system is a wearable sensor technology that accurately measures multiple gait parameters in the lower limb relating to real-life conditions. It comprises a pair of intelligent insoles, coupled to an easy-to-use web interface, which allows clinicians to view the data recorded by the PodoSmart system. The intelligent insoles feature sensors designed to detect tiny foot movements. These data points can be used to monitor foot injuries and detect abnormalities. Each Podosmart insole has an onboard inertial unit recording the movement and orientation of the foot in space. This data is processed by artificial intelligence algorithms to recognise walking steps, running strides and other activities and then calculate the space-time, kinematic and biomarker parameters displayed in the interface. The insoles are placed in the patient’s shoes, and then they are asked to walk, or run, in the shoes. This can be performed either indoors or outdoors. After the patient is done walking or running, the data is directly sent from the connected insoles to the web interface on the computer with the help of Bluetooth signals. The device provides a detailed review of how a person walks by providing data on the following points: Cadence Speed (walking, propulsion and average) Digital Gaitline Dynamic pronation/supination Time (stance, stance phases, swing, double support, stride) Stride length and asymmetry What’s Next? Once the analysis is complete, we can then provide recommendations to improve your gait and reduce the risk of injuries. This may involve making adjustments to your running form, suggesting specific shoe types that can better support your feet, or prescribing custom orthotics to address underlying biomechanical issues. By following the recommendations resulting from a biomechanical analysis, you can enhance your overall running efficiency and decrease the likelihood of developing common overuse injuries. Taking proactive steps to address biomechanical imbalances can also lead to a more enjoyable and sustainable running experience. If you’re a runner looking to optimize your performance and minimize the risk of injury, consider consulting a podiatrist for a detailed biomechanical analysis of your gait. The insights gained from this analysis can empower you to make informed decisions about your running technique, footwear, and orthotic support, ultimately supporting your long-term running goals and overall well-being. Custom Orthotics Using 3D modelling software, we are able to design and produce our own customised orthotics here at Gait Way Podiatry. It starts with a dynamic scan on a baropodometric platform to detect the patient’s foot loads and posture during standing and walking. The foot is then scanned with the 3D Podoscan, an electronic podoscope for acquiring the digital footprint. The orthotic is constructed using the information gathered from the previous steps. The podiatrist’s preferences for control and accommodating features are then added. Following this, the orthotic is milled directly on our premises, and any additional padding, wedging and top-covers are added. It can be produced within an hour, however, we will allow for a day to make it the best quality possible. Runners, athletes and those competing in various levels of sport can now have the thinnest and most structured orthotics made to reduce the risk of injury or re-injury. By using this 3D modelling system, it means that the orthotics can be better fitted to your athletic footwear. The benefits of the ripple effect system are the combination of three-dimensional and two-dimensional planes being superimposed to yield the ultimate footbed for any foot function and shoe. This allows us to deliver a high-quality product in half the time. The Right Shoes As well as the terrain underfoot, you must select the right pair of shoes to go the distance you require. If you’re training for a marathon or event, you’ll require a different running shoe than running a 5k in the park. Long distances require a more cushioned shoe, while shorter, everyday runs need a more flexible training shoe. Footwear is an integral tool to use in maintaining our foot health and running comfort. Poorly fitting or inappropriate shoes can result in blisters, ingrown toenails, claw toes and numerous other skin and biomechanical conditions. When considering purchasing new shoes, it is essential to ensure that they are suitable for your foot type and needs. Correct support, fit and comfort must be present. At Gait Way Podiatry, we stock several brands which are beneficial for our feet, as well as stylish. Call now for a full Gait Analysis and foot health check!  (07) 3385 0567 #marathon #runnersfeet #runninggait