As long as they are moving in the right direction, most people have no conscious awareness of what their feet are doing when they walk. If seen in slow motion, though, it becomes apparent that every step is composed of two distinct elements, and each has its own rolling motion.

When walking, a person’s heel strikes the ground first. As it does, the foot rolls to the outside in a movement called supination. The heel then lifts off the ground, and as the body weight shifts over the ball of the foot to propel the body forward, the foot rolls inward in a movement called pronation.

Abnormal Supination

Although supination is normal, over-supination is not. Over-supination refers to a condition in which the heel’s outward roll is exaggerated or prolonged. When this happens, the outside of the foot bears most of the body’s weight, and this prevents it from properly absorbing shock.

Over-supination is common in people who have high arches, and it often leads to such problems as ankle sprains, plantar fasciitis and ligament ruptures. People who over-supinate are also prone to chronic pain in the soles of the feet as well as in the back, neck, knees and hips.

Signs of Over-Supination

People who over-supinate frequently wear down the outside edges of the heels on their shoes. An examination of their footprints as they walk in wet sand will often reveal only a very thin strip along the outside edge and no impression whatsoever in the region of the arch.

Treatment of Over-Supination

Before exercising or walking any distance, people who over-supinate should thoroughly stretch their legs and feet. They should also ensure that their shoes properly support their feet while providing enough cushioning to compensate for the added stress. A moderate arch support can also help, but one that is overly high can force the foot to roll even further outward, exacerbating the problem.

Rigid shoes and those that provide excessive stabilization are bad choices for anyone who over-supinates. Running shoes, on the other hand, are an excellent option, as they usually provide both support and cushioning in the optimal proportions.

Tags: Foot and Leg Problems, new balance, new balance running shoes, New Balance Shoes, new balance walking shoes, Over -Supination, Supination

Every tendon in the body has a specific purpose: to attach a certain muscle to a particular bone. The posterior tibial tendon, which runs along the inside of the ankle, attaches the calf muscle in the leg to the bones on the inner portion of the foot. Its main purpose is the support and stabilization of the arch.

This tendon normally causes no problems, and most people aren’t even aware that it exists until acute injury or overuse cause it to tear or become inflamed. The condition, known as posterior tibial tendonitis, is common among people who engage in such high-impact sports as running, tennis, soccer and basketball.

Women over the age of 40 are especially vulnerable to tearing or inflammation of this tendon. The same is true of people suffering from high blood pressure, obesity or diabetes. Since a torn or inflamed posterior tibial tendon loses its ability to support the foot properly, fallen arches frequently result.

Symptoms of Posterior Tibial Tendonitis

Anyone who suffers from posterior tibial tendonitis is likely to feel pain that runs from the ankle to the inside of the foot. This pain will worsen with exercise. In some cases, even a low-impact activity such as walking or standing in one spot becomes difficult.

If the arch actually does collapse, it can force the heel unnaturally outward. In this case, pain will occur on the outside of the ankle.

Treatment of Posterior Tibial Tendonitis

Fortunately, surgery is not always necessary for the management of this painful condition. There are things a sufferer can do at home to help the region heal. Icing the area will aid in the reduction of swelling. Resting the foot is essential, as well. It’s extremely important to take an extended vacation from high-impact activities.

The Right Shoes

Wearing the wrong shoes can aggravate this condition. Sufferers should be sure that any shoes they buy provide sufficient shock absorption, heel elevation and arch support.

Some manufacturers have designed shoes with special features to provide relief to sufferers of posterior tibial tendonitis. A knowledgeable shoe fitter can be of invaluable assistance in helping to fit the proper shoe for this condition.

Tags: Foot and Leg Problems, new balance, new balance running shoes, New Balance Shoes, new balance walking shoes, Posterior Tibial Tendonitis

No matter what type of running a person does, there are shoes that will perfectly fit the bill. Some have extra cushioning for those who have experienced an injury in the past or who go on extremely long runs. Others have motion control for those who want to have perfect form and need to be in control at all times. Still others have an extremely light design for those who need to be fast above all else. When a person looks to New Balance to buy new shoes, they can be sure that they will find what they need.

The first benefit of New Balance running shoes is they are designed for those who run often. Running is a very stressful thing for knee joints and hips joints. It can also cause a lot of pain through the runner’s foot. New Balance shoes have been designed with cushioning that is specially formulated for running. It is a resistant sort of cushioning that takes all of the impact of each step, reducing the wear and tear on the runner’s body.

The shoes also have excellent arch support. Arches that hurt after a run can often be painful enough to make it so that the runner will not want to go out again. New Balance shoes have been designed so that the shoe itself, and not just an insole, will support the arch. This means that the support will never deteriorate or become ineffective.

Finally, New Balance shoes are designed for durability. They are made to last. No matter how many hundreds of miles a person puts on them throughout the year, they will perform at a high level until the very end. These are shoes that are made from the best materials so that they do not wear out.

Runners need to have the very best equipment on the market in order to have success. They cannot work with anything less, or they will not be satisfied with their own performance. Fortunately, New Balance knows what high standards runners have, and they have developed shoes that can live up to these expectations.

Tags: lightweight running shoes, mens running shoe, mens running shoes, new balance, new balance running shoes, New Balance Shoes, running shoes

1. More than 43.1 million Americans–one in every six persons–have trouble with their feet, mostly from improperly-fitting shoes. A huge public health risk, foot problems cost the U.S. $3.5 billion a year.

2. The cost of foot surgery to correct foot problems from tight-fitting shoes is $2 billion a year. If time off from work for the surgery and recovery is included, the cost is $3.5 billion.

3. A study conducted by the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society found that:
a. Nine out of 10 women are wearing shoes that are too small for their feet.
b. Eight out of 10 women say their shoes are painful.
c. More than 7 out of 10 women have developed a bunion, hammertoe, or other painful foot deformity.
d. Women are nine times more likely to develop a foot problem because of improper fitting shoes than a man.
e. Nine out of 10 women’s foot deformities can be attributed to tight shoes.

4. We’re all susceptible to foot and ankle injuries, but we can reduce our risk for them by wearing properly-fitting shoes that conform to the natural shape of our feet. In selecting shoes, keep this basic principle of good fit in mind: Your feet should never be forced to conform to the shape of a pair of shoes.

5. Although style is often a key consideration in choosing a pair of shoes, the most important quality to look for in shoes-from a practical standpoint-is durable construction that will protect your feet and keep them comfortable. Shoes that do not fit can cause bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes and other disabling foot disorders.

Tags: Foot Facts, Foot Problems, new balance, new balance running shoes, new balance walking shoes

While running, several types of injuries can occur; some are instant and others happen over an extended period of time. The solution to avoiding some of these injuries is proper body mechanics as seen when wearing the correct shoe. Ankle sprain, plantar fasciitis, and stress fractures are all injuries caused by overuse of the muscles when using them in an unsupported way. Along with proper body conditioning, finding a great shoe can make the difference on the wear and tear runners place on their muscles.

When researching a running shoe, look for the type of support that will most benefit your running style. The Women’s New Balance 1064 Ultra Cushioned running shoe provides a light-weight, highly responsive, shock-absorbing shoe that offers extra cushioning for supreme comfort. This particular shoe also provides optimal flexibility of the forefoot while running. New Balance has added a reflective detail for visibility of the runner at night.

New Balance offers male runners a wide range of shoe types including the Men’s New Balance 1226 High Stability running shoe. This pair of shoes provides extra heel support which offers heel strike cushioning. The medial support system works to give the runner a smooth transition from heel to toe-off. Cushioning is not forgotten in this shoe as it gives the runner the firmness needed for stability as well as comfort.

Although the wide selection of men and women’s running shoes vary in their specialties, the one common denominator is the lightweight comfort found in all New Balance shoes. The breathable material used to construct the uppers of the shoes allows the runner to experience not only air circulation but the lack of heavy material avoids unnecessary weight for the runner to carry on his or her run. Avoiding injuries should be a primary goal for any runner but stylish options are always a plus. New Balance has a long list of color options for male and female runners, alike. Consider all options when deciding on a running shoe; the proper maintenance of the foot and body as a whole should be a top priority for all runners.

Tags: new balance, New Balance Shoes, running shoes, walking shoes

Are you happy with your walking shoes? I mean, right now, are you satisfied, or is it time to shop for a new pair?

New Balance began with only an arch support shoe in the early 1900′s. Now, it’s a company that offers athletic shoes for men, women and children. Sizes range from infant’s crib shoes to mens’ 18 with 6E width. With around 200 styles, choosing a shoe can be difficult. But most people looking at a New Balance shoe are looking for more than style.

In America, 43.1 million of us have foot problems. Some of these problems are caused by poorly fitting shoes. New Balance has styles to fit almost any foot.

New Balance produces four types of shoes: Running, Walking, Training and Tennis. Within the categories, there are three sub categories: Stability, Motion Control and Neutral Cushioning. The Cushioning shoes are for the average foot and body build. The amount of cushioning varies, with the higher number having the most. These shoes are picked by those with normal or high arches.

Stability shoes have more inner foot and arch support. Once again, the number tells which style has more and which has less. People with low arches or flat feet tend to choose the stability shoe. This support can help prevent or relieve plantar fascitis.

Motion control shoes give the wearer support on both the inner and outer sides of the foot. These shoes have a roll bar to correct the gait.

A pair of New Balance shoes is cheaper than foot surgery and much more pleasant.

Walking is recognized as a good way to get or stay fit and a pair of New Balance shoes can make it more enjoyable.

Look at your shoes. Are they still doing the job or are you in the market for new ones? Experts say, like an oil change, a person should buy new walking shoes every 500 miles or 6 months. Are you due for a shoe change? Give New Balance a try!

Tags: Motion Control shoes, new balance, new balance walking shoes, walking shoes

Available in both women’s and men’s varieties, New Balance offers the optimal synergy of comfort and performance in its lines of walking shoes. The cushioning and proper arch that define the comfort associated with the New Balance brand are both readily identifiable. New Balance walking shoes are available in a large array of styles and varieties to fit any intended use.

The men’s line includes casual shoes with a plethora of different looks and materials that can be matched to almost any casual or recreational occasion. Waterproof and higher durability varieties are also available for hiking, camping, and many other outdoor activities. To that extent, the men’s 977 and 1520 styles are outfitted with Gore-Tex to provide the pinnacle in waterproof footwear. By offering styles with prescribed functions including stability, motion control, and cushioning, New Balance has a shoe to fit any desired use and consumer preference. Velcro varieties are also available to ensure the utmost ease of putting on and removing one’s footwear.

The women’s line offers a variety of footwear that is both akin and complementary to that offered for men. Along with the waterproof outdoor 977 and 1520 styles that employ the use of Gore-Tex, the women’s line also includes the stability, motion control, and cushioning lines of walking shoes that allow any potential buyer to acclimate the footwear to her desired functionality. The varying styles of tread and shock absorption allow a greater amount of dexterity in the myriad of uses that permeate everyday life.

New Balance also offers narrow and extra-wide shoes in both men’s and women’s styles in order to accommodate its diverse clientele. New Balance walking shoes are also available in a multitude of colors across each functional design so that the wearer can not only choose his or her preferred color of shoes, but also add them to a unique matching outfit to create a completely fashionable ensemble with an extremely comforting appeal.

Tags: new balance, New Balance Shoes, new balance walking shoes, walking shoes

A great pair of shoes often has a huge impact on physical well being. Shoes play a significant role in controlling the angle at which feet hit the ground, which affects how the legs align. Without proper alignment and posture, the runner can have foot, leg, hip, or back problems, and the risk increases with each step.

Running shoes should be a well-researched decision. New Balance has been making shoes for over a hundred years and is constantly researching and evolving its shoes to provide runners with a superior product, ensuring peak performance without strain or injury.

The impact of running places 2.5 times the runner’s body weight onto the shoe with each stride. Running shoes are specially designed to support your feet while absorbing this impact.

There are several factors to consider when selecting running shoes. First, the arch height should be considered; high arches require more support. If you have custom orthotics, you need a flat shoe so that it does not alter the shape of the orthotic.

Width is another important factor. Feet require proper support on the sides, so a shoe should be snug without feeling tight. Allow appropriate space for the socks you wear when you run. Running shoes have a life span of about 300 to 500 miles; your shoes can usually be worn twice that long if they’re used primarily for walking or less impactful exercise. Examine the bottom of both shoes for their wear pattern.

Tags: new balance, new balance running shoes, New Balance Shoes, new balance walking shoes, running shoes

A great pair of shoes often has a huge impact on physical well being. Shoes play a significant role in controlling the angle at which feet hit the ground, which affects how the legs align. Without proper alignment and posture, the runner can have foot, leg, hip, or back problems, and the risk increases with each step.

Running shoes should be a well-researched decision. New Balance has been making shoes for over a hundred years and is constantly researching and evolving its shoes to provide runners with a superior product, ensuring peak performance without strain or injury.

The impact of running places 2.5 times the runner’s body weight onto the shoe with each stride. Running shoes are specially designed to support your feet while absorbing this impact.

There are several factors to consider when selecting running shoes. First, the arch height should be considered; high arches require more support. If you have custom orthotics, you need a flat shoe so that it does not alter the shape of the orthotic.

Width is another important factor. Feet require proper support on the sides, so a shoe should be snug without feeling tight. Allow appropriate space for the socks you wear when you run.

Running shoes have a life span of about 300 to 500 miles; your shoes can usually be worn twice that long if they’re used primarily for walking or less impactful exercise. Examine the bottom of both shoes for their wear pattern. If it’s uneven or they’re severely worn, your footwear is no longer properly supportive.

Tags: new balance, new balance running shoes, New Balance Shoes, running shoes

New Balance shoes feature all the important elements of a good walking shoe. These walking shoes have proven to be extremely comfortable when walking short or long distances. They provide good, lightweight support. Specifically targeted in these shoes is stability throughout the area of the middle foot. Extra cushioning in the mid-sole section of this shoe provides yet more support.

A good walking shoe will also feature flexibility. Walking should not feel stiff. It should feel like you are rolling through each step you take. With New Balance shoes you will be able to feel your feet flexing as you walk.

Stability is another important factor in a pair of good walking shoes. These shoes feature a rigid arch support that is lightweight. The weight is also kept low on these shoes with mesh and synthetic material composing the upper portion of the shoe. In fact, the shoe weighs a mere 8.5 ounces which makes long distance walking possible.

Part of what makes a walking shoe comfortable is having adequate cushioning. New Balance shoes have plenty of cushioning exactly where you need it, making for extremely comfortable walking.

Good walking shoes also need to be durable. You want your shoes to last a long time. No one likes to spend a lot of money on a pair of shoes that don’t last. New Balance shoes are well-built, providing lasting usage. Not only will the rubber soles of these shoes provide lasting durability but you can also keep these shoes looking nice with the easy-to-clean synthetic material.

Of course, a decent walking shoe should also look good. New Balance shoes are appealing to the eye. You can find these walking shoes in a variety of colors and sizes with attractive accents.

Tags: annapolis, new balance, New Balance Shoes, walking shoes, womans walking shoes