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February 26, 2025

Exercising with Proper Shoes Creates Better Foot Health

Foot health is a critical aspect of overall physical health, and the right footwear plays a crucial role in maintaining it. Did you know that the human foot is an intricate structure consisting of 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments? The human foot is designed to absorb shock, support body weight, and provide stability and balance. Wearing appropriate shoes that fit well and are tailored to your specific workout is vital in preventing injuries, enhancing performance, and keeping your body in excellent condition.

Imagine your feet as the superheroes of your body, always ready to tackle any fitness challenge. With strong and healthy feet at your side, you'll be a force to be reckoned with when it comes to high-impact exercises like running and jumping. Not only that, but your feet will help you keep your balance and stability in check, perfect for mastering yoga and Pilates like a pro!

While maintaining good foot health can have a positive impact on your exercise routine, the opposite can be true if you experience foot problems. Foot pain, blisters, and injuries can hinder your ability to participate in physical activities, while issues with your feet can throw off your balance and gait, potentially causing injury or strain elsewhere in your body.

Everyday Shoes vs. Workout Shoes

When it comes to footwear, workout shoes and normal shoes are far from interchangeable. Don't confuse your sneakers for your loafers! Workout shoes and normal shoes are not in the same league. The design, construction, and features of each type cater to different needs. The primary objective of workout shoes is to supply the support, cushioning, and traction necessary for various physical activities. On the other hand, normal shoes are more suitable for casual wear and everyday activities such as grocery shopping and casual outings with friends.

Here are some of the key differences between them:

Sole: The soles of workout shoes are intentionally designed to offer traction and stability on a range of surfaces. These sneaker soles are meticulously crafted to give you the grip and balance you need during athletic activities. In contrast, regular shoes with flat soles just don't cut it when it comes to sports. Save those for Sunday strolls and let your workout shoes take the spotlight.

Cushioning: When it comes to workout shoes, cushioning makes a huge difference because it ready allows the shoe to absorb the shock of your impacts which protects your joints.

Support: Sneakers for the gym typically have some extra benefits, such as arch support or pronation control, that give your feet the stability they need to avoid pesky injuries. Regular shoes might not have these features, which could make them less than ideal for sports or workouts.

Breathability: Sweat happens, but not with workout shoes! Workout shoes are made with special materials to allow breathability which keeps your feet cooled and dried while you workout.

Durability: When engaging in regular exercise, it's important to wear footwear specifically designed for the occasion. Workout shoes are built to endure the wear and tear of repetitive motions, with reinforced materials and stitching to prevent damage. In contrast, normal shoes may lack the durability needed for athletic activities and may wear out quickly.

What to Consider When Choosing a New Workout Shoe

Finding the perfect pair of athletic shoes is like finding a treasure chest of strength and performance! For running, you'll need some cushioned shoes that can handle the impact and protect your feet. Cross-training? You'll need a pair with lateral support to handle those crazy side-to-side moves. Basketball players, don't forget your high-top sneakers for that ankle support and protection. And let's not forget our soccer stars - you'll need some specialized kicks with the perfect cleat design for ultimate traction on that field. Hiking enthusiasts: a shoe with sturdy ankle support and a tough-as-nails sole is a must for those adventurous terrains. Don't let anything hold you back!

Wearing the right shoes is crucial, and this means making sure they fit correctly. A good fit should be snug but not overly tight, with enough space to wiggle your toes. The heel should fit snugly without any slipping or sliding. It's recommended to try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are at their largest, and wear the same socks you intend to wear during activity.

When to Replace Your Shoes:

During your workouts, wearing worn-out sports shoes may not provide adequate protection for your feet. According to Michigan State University Extension, running shoes should be replaced after every 350 to 500 miles. If you run 20 miles per week, you should consider replacing your shoes every 20 to 25 weeks. When determining if it's time to replace your shoes, don't rely solely on treads on the bottom of the shoe, as they may not be a reliable indicator. Instead, check the mid-sole of the shoe for signs of damage, which may appear earlier.

It’s important to remember that there's no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to feet, which means you may need to try on a few different shoes to find the perfect pair for you. Experiment with various brands and styles until you find the perfect fit that complements your unique physical activity or workout routine. Your feet will thank you!

Whether you are looking for your first pair of athletic shoes, or need to replace a worn out pair - Bogers Shoes has you covered. Our team is always ready to help you with your needs.

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Ingrown Toenails: What They Are and How to Kick the Pain to the Curb

September 10, 2025

Ingrown toenails are a common foot issue that can cause pain, swelling, and even infection if not treated properly. Whether you're dealing with one for the first time or looking to prevent future problems, understanding how they develop and how to care for them can make a big difference. What Is an Ingrown Toenail? An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of your toenail grows into the surrounding skin instead of over it. This usually affects the big toe but can happen to any toenail. The result is often redness, pain, and sometimes infection. Common Causes of Ingrown Toenails Several factors can contribute to the development of an ingrown toenail, including: Improper Nail Trimming : Cutting nails too short or rounding the corners can encourage the nail to grow into the skin. Tight Footwear : Shoes that squeeze the toes can put pressure on the nails, forcing them into the skin. Injury : Stubbing your toe or other trauma can lead to nail growth problems. Genetics : Some people inherit the tendency for curved or thick nails. Poor Foot Hygiene : Not keeping feet clean and dry can lead to nail issues, including ingrown toenails. Signs and Symptoms Tenderness or pain along one or both sides of the toenail Redness and swelling around the nail Pus or other signs of infection Warmth around the toe If symptoms worsen or don’t improve, medical attention may be necessary. How to Care for an Ingrown Toenail Mild cases of ingrown toenails can often be managed at home with proper care. 1. Soak Your Foot Soaking the foot in warm water for 15–20 minutes, 2–3 times a day, helps reduce swelling and softens the nail and skin. Optional : Add Epsom salt to the water for extra relief. 2. Gently Lift the Nail After soaking, try to gently lift the edge of the nail using a clean piece of cotton or dental floss. This can help separate the nail from the skin and guide proper growth. Change the cotton/floss daily. 3. Apply Antibiotic Ointment Use an over-the-counter antibiotic cream to prevent infection. Cover the toe with a sterile bandage after applying. 4. Wear Comfortable Shoes Choose open-toed or loose-fitting shoes to avoid putting pressure on the toenail while it heals. 5. Avoid Cutting the Nail Further Trimming the nail might seem helpful, but cutting it too short can make the problem worse. Let it grow out a bit before reshaping it carefully. You should consult a healthcare provider if: The ingrown toenail shows signs of infection (pus, redness, increased pain) You have diabetes or poor circulation Home treatment doesn't improve the condition in a few days You experience recurring ingrown toenails A doctor might perform a minor procedure to remove part of the nail or prescribe antibiotics if there’s an infection. Preventing Ingrown Toenails Trim Nails Properly : Cut straight across, not too short, and avoid rounding the edges. Wear Proper Footwear : Make sure your shoes fit well and provide enough room for your toes. Keep Feet Clean and Dry : Good foot hygiene can prevent a variety of nail problems. Protect Your Feet : Be cautious during sports and other activities that might cause toe injury. Ingrown toenails can be painful, but with the right care and attention, most cases resolve without complications. By understanding what causes them and how to treat and prevent them, you can keep your feet healthy and pain-free. If you're ever unsure or dealing with persistent symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek professional care.