STRIDER SHOES WITH RxSORBO SORBOTHANE INSOLES

"Women are four times more likely to experience foot problems than men. " 

Featuring

 SORBOTHANE Insoles with 94.7%  Impact Shock Absorption capabilities

Accepted by APMA

About Foot Care
The scenario in Malaysia is that there are no proper guidelines on footwear  for nurses, doctors and teachers. They form a sizeable number in the public workforce. Teachers (http://gauge.u-gakugei.ac.jp/apeid/apeid06/PAPERS/Malaysia.htm) alone account for the largest percentage of  public servants in Malaysia, approximately 300,000 , of which more than 60% are female.
Nurses ( http://www.etawau.com/edu/IndexCollegeNursing.htm ) number around 75000, but another 135000 is requred by 2020 in order to achieve the the nurse-to-resident ration of 1:200. 


They wear shoes as long as it is comfortable and of a certain colour, thus observing the minimum requirement. This leads to non-uniformity and most certainly non-conformity to safety standards. There are two major categories of work-related foot injuries.. The first category includes foot injuries from punctures, crushing, sprains, and lacerations which account for 10% of all reported disabling injuries. The second includes injuries resulting from slips, trips and falls, This account for 15% of all reported disabling injuries. Slips and falls do not always result in a foot injury, but a lack of attention to foot safety plays an important role in their occurrence.
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These two categories of foot injuries, however, do not exhaust the whole range of foot problems at work. There are also other conditions such as calluses, ingrown toenails or simply tired feet that are common among workers. Although these may not be considered as occupational injuries in the strictest sense, they can have serious consequences for health and safety at the workplace. They cause discomfort, pain and fatigue. Fatigue sets up the worker for further injuries affecting the muscles and joints. Also, a worker who is tired and suffering pain is less alert and more likely to act unsafely.


There is no workplace where a worker is immune to foot injury, nor is there  safe jobs that is cognisant of the need for healthy foot care. Statistically ,those presumably in the safe job categories like clericals, medical sector and teachers, account for 15% to 20% of foot disabling injuries in this country.


Foot Problems & Common Causes


Severely aching feet, 
Blisters, 
Calluses,http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0002212/
Corns, http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0002212/
Rheumatism, 
Arthritis, http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0002223/
Malformations of toes, 
Fallen arches (flat feet), http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0002242/
Bunions,  http://foothealth.about.com/od/bunions/ig/Photos-Bunions-HAV/
Sprains, 
Ulcers, http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0004443/
Athelete's foot,http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001878/
Hammertoe,http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0002215/
Osteoporosis (brittle bones), http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0004420/
Heel Spur,http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/?term=heel+spur

The above are common foot problems caused by one or more of the following;


- long periods of standing, hard flooring 
- poorly fitted footwear
- high heels                                                                                                                     
- pointed shoes
- lack of arch support
- flat feet
- too loose or too tight footwear
- weakening of foot muscles causing shortened
  tendons and a retracted toe curling inwards. This
  also creates a bump at the joint on the top of the toe
- neuropathy, a reduced or lack of feeling in the
  feet due to nerve damage caused by elevated
  blood glucose levels.
- Sweaty feet, fungal infections (athlete's foot)

However, the hazards differ according to the workplace and the types of tasks the worker does. The first step in developing a strategy to reduce foot problems is to identify the relevant hazards at the workplace. Such hazards should be assessed in each workplace, no matter how safe or how dangerous it may seem. The following are some of the reasons contributing to poor foot care.


STANDING LONG HOURS
Standing long hours, daily, not only tires the feet but can also cause permanent damage. Continuous standing can cause the joints of bones to become misaligned (eg., cause flat feet) and can cause inflammation which potentially can lead to rheumatism and arthritis. Workers group most susceptible to this scenario are teachers, nurses, airlines stewards/stewardess and those in the service sectors like hoteliers, just to name a few.


FLOORING TYPES
The type of flooring used in the workplace has an influence on comfort, especially on tender feet. Hard, unyielding floors like concrete are the least comfortable surfaces to work on. Working on a hard floor has the impact of a hammer, pounding the heel at every step. Read more on this under the caption STEPSHOCK. Slippery floors are hazardous for slips and falls that can result in sprained or broken foot bones .


FOOTWEAR DESIGN
Footwear that fits poorly or is in need of repair also contributes heavily to foot discomfort. Pointed toes and high heels are particularly inappropriate for workplace. Prolonged standing, hard flooring and inappropriate footwear are common conditions that contribute to poor footcare.


It is vital that those suffering from diabetes related peripheral neuropathy have their shoes customised by trained professionals, or obtain ready made diabetes shoes which has the endorsement of the relevant governing bodies or agencies. 


CAUSES OF OTHER COMMON FOOT PROBLEMS
The severity of these commons problems need mention. 


Bunions: A bump which forms at the base of the big toe. It can get sore, turn red and infected. 
Hammertoe: Caused by motor neuropathy which weakens the foot muscles, shortening of the tendons which then retracts the toe, causing it to curl under the foot and creating a bump at the top of the toe. 
Ulcers: Patients who have diabetes can develop neuropathy, a reduced or lack of sensation in the feet due to nerve damage caused by increased blood sugar levels. 


Osteoporosis: Neuropathy and blood circulation change increases the risk of bone fracture. 
Blisters: Ill fitting shoes can cause repeated  friction at the same spot.


STRIDER®  NURSES SHOES 94.7% SHOCK ABSORPTION

Properly fitted shoes are essential  in preventing work related  injuries. Companies specializing in pedorthics -- the design of footwear and specialty insoles, help to alleviate prevention of  foot pain and injury.


Pellicoz Engineering Sdn Bhd which has the proprietary rights to the STRIDER® range of nurses shoes,  pays attention to design which  entails a roomy and  wider square box-toe construction at the  front with sufficient padding, air circulation for the skin to breathe  and seamless inner lining, especially for Diabetes shoes, to avoid stitching joints which over time  contributes  to abrasions, pinching  and rubbing. Promoting good air circulation involves the  use of choice  fabric  and practical design. Using the right type of insole  encourages good blood circulation    .

                                                              

Pedorthic insoles are generally custom made for the patient's feet, to ensure  proper fit so as to  minimize rubbing or abrasion. Another salient criteria in the design is the even weight distribution.  This entails two aspects, one of which is ensuring shock absorbing insoles of the  highest quality  with proven research and development and tested over  time is used. 


Pellicoz Engineering guarantees use of the award winning  RxSORBO SORBOTHANE® insole from the US. This product is extensively used in the design and manufacture of space suits for astronauts. The other is to ascertain  the correct heel height to  ensure correct distribution of pressure and step shock, in this case the recommended 25mm.


STRIDER® shoes’ design is a result of  R&D, years of expertise and more so its collaboration to incorporatehigh performance  insole from an international  company in the US.

               

                    Much of the process is dependant on manual application.     

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MATERIAL COMPOSITION

SHOE UPPER


The upper material is of water-resistant micro fiber  which will remain soft & supple. It does not turn brittle or crack like other syntactic materials. The whiteness will remain same for a long period of time.


Micro fiber is durable and has a good anti peeling strength. A microfiber is a fiber which is thinner than a denier i.e. almost 10 times thinner than a strand of hair. They are made up of high quality materials which give it a very smooth finish.


There are many advantages of using microfiber sheets. They are durable and very easy to clean and available in a wide variety of colours and designs so that you can choose one according to your needs.  Microfiber is typically made up of a combination of nylon and polyester which makes it very easy to care for. It can be washed in the washing machine and they retain their shape and sheen forever. The combined strength of the fibers makes microfiber sheets very strong and difficult to tear.


Microfiber is stain resistant and therefore you can easily use them without worrying about stains and spills and wear and tear. Another big advantage of microfiber sheets is that they are resistant to dust, pollen, and dust mites and other allergy causing materials.


UPPER LINNG


Micro Fiber and nylon are used as upper lining. The lining are well padded with PU foam to enhance comfort during wear and durability.


OUTSOLE


The outsole is made of 100% natural rubber, which is durable, slip resistant, noise free and also absorbs a certain percentage of STEP SHOCK (More information on step shock provided below).


Rubber-soled shoes are performance-oriented, for specific sports or casual occasions. Rubber-soled shoes were first designed for mountain climbing. In 1936, Italian mountain climber Vitale Bramani developed the rubber sole, influenced by the Pirelli automotive tire. The rubber sole was designed for traction. The Vibram Company continues to be a leading manufacturer of rubber soles today.


Podiatrist Arnold Ravick of the American Podiatric Medical Association states a typical men's leather sole weighs about five pounds compared to the 2-1/2 pound rubber sole. Running shoe soles weigh only 10 ounces, on average. Rubber soles absorb a greater amount of shock due to their flexibility. Podiatry is the branch of medicine devoted to the diagnosis and treatment of disorders, diseases and injuries of the foot, ankle, and lower leg. Podiatrists, also known as doctors of podiatric medicine (DPMs), treat ankle and foot injuries, deformities and infections including corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, bunions, heel spurs, arch problems, heal pain, and diabetes foot care.

Podiatrists use several techniques to evaluate and treat these problems including prescribing drugs and physical therapy, ordering x-rays, analyzing patients’ walk and weight distribution, setting fractures, fitting corrective shoe inserts called orthotics, designing custom-made shoes, and performing podiatric surgery. More about Dr Arnold Ravick:

Dr. Arnold Ravick

INSOLE LINING      

The shoe design also incorporates COOLMAX advanced insole lining, which is structured to speed up evaporation, without retaining moisture or perspiration, and actively resists mildew and odours. It is an international  trademark product of the highest accepted norm.


Workout clothing, shoes and socks are made of synthetic or occasionally a natural/synthetic blend. These polyester-based fabrics - Coolmax, Dri-Fit and Capilene - are designed to pull perspiration off your skin and help it evaporate or be absorbed by the next layer. This way, your skin is drier and less likely to chafe, and in the case of your feet, to blister. In cold/wet weather, it’s very important to stay as dry as possible.


Coolmax products are designed to wick away perspiration [and] insulate and or vent when you generate too much heat.

The insole also feature the arch cookies using TArch Support to preserve sole contour and provide the required resting surface.


SORBOTHANE®  INSOLES
SORBOTHANE® high performance cushioning materials for footwear are available in a wide variety of colors, thicknesses, densities and surface textures to accommodate almost any activity, from everyday use to the rigorous demands of high-impact sports and exercise. The material used is a microporous polyurethane foam which is able to cushion effectively the  'stepshock' of walking and running. It has  a bacteria prohibitive ingredient to keep feet cool, comfortable and fresh.  SORBOTHANE® insole boosts the foot’s natural cushioning, making walking or running easier. Dr Hiles Sorbothane illustrates:

Maximum retention of comfort and flexibility  SORBOTHANE® insoles are made without plasticizers, which means the material will not shrink or become brittle and crack  with age.  SORBOTHANE® insoles retain "like-new" softness and flexibility.


The highest degree of impact absorption (stepshock). More shock absorption means less impact to feet and joints. In side-by-side drop weight tests,  SORBOTHANE®  materials outperformed vinyl sponge, neoprene sponge, sponge rubber, latex foam and solid viscoelastic.


A breathable layer to help feet stay dry and cool, SORBOTHANE® insole materials forms a permeable layers that draw water vapor and perspiration away. This is a key ingredient in footwear design to help keep your feet stay cool and dry because perspiration evaporates quickly and heat to dissipate.


SORBOTHANE® insoles have been proven to reduce jarring, fatigue and impact-related pain and injuries. That's why doctors, sports medicine specialists and professional trainers now regularly recommend  SORBOTHANE® insoles as an effective means of relieving foot and back pain and reducing the risk of injuries such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, ITBS and shin splints. In addition, SORBOTHANE®  is accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), a network of podiatric physicians dedicated to providing the public with the latest information on foot and ankle health.              

Working closely with these and other medical professionals, our line of insoles have been expertly designed to address a wide array of foot care needs from extra cushioning to orthotic arch support.

SORBOTHANE® Insole’s performance and endurance is guaranteed to last for the lifespan of the shoes.

/ home / about us / Before Sorbothane introduced the concept of insoles in the 70s, runners hadn't thought to put anything in their shoes other than their feet. But once they discovered the health and comfort benefits that 94.7% shock-absorption delivered, runners were hooked. Today, in answer to the growing demand for ever-more specialized insoles, Sorbothane continues to develop superior technologies that enable all sports enthusiasts to do what they love to do, longer. Using the latest technology and medical information, Sorbothane aims to design insoles that minimize injuries and maximize performance, enabling runners, triathletes and other sports enthusiasts to extend by years their ability to train and compete. We hope to motivate this growing community not only by sharing our innovations but by also sharing our passion for life spent on the move.

Orthopaedic Research Laboratories (ORL) in Cleveland, Ohio, (http://orl-inc.com/ ,http://www.footshox.com/ ) recruited patients involved in an exercise research program at the Arthritis Research Institute in the US, to test  SORBOTHANE®  shock absorbing insoles. All the patients suffered from foot pain and joint pain caused by osteoarthritis and other forms of arthritis. After a month's usage of  SORBOTHANE®  insole, 95% of the patients in the test said their foot pain and joint pain was eliminated or reduced and 85% felt less fatigued.

The following testimonies from many who were cured or had their feet health improved will allay any form of doubt in the readers minds.



A Few Testimonials...Dear Sorbothane,

I am a Police Officer in the Tactical Firearms Unit in the Greater Manchester Police, England and am writing to you with regards to a pair of Sorbothane insoles I purchased for my boots.

We are all issued Men's Danner Acadia Plain Toe Uniform Boots and despite them being very suitable to our role I found them somewhat hard on the feet whilst on foot patrol. However, I have since purchased a pair or your Sorbothanes and my boots now feel like a pair of slippers!!

It's like wearing a pair of trainers and they are now very comfy! Keep up the good work!

Thanks,

J.N.
Officer
Tactical Firearms Unit,





Sorbothane,

Over ten years ago I bought your insert, a simple sheet of a single material, which I have used religiously for jogging and backpacking. I credit Sorbothane (along with some strength training at the gym) for allowing me to continue both these activities into my mid 60's. Thank you, thank you, thank you. - BTW, after 10+ years of use, I can't tell the therapeutic effect is any less. As your description says "Sorbothane absorbs shock efficiently for millions of cycles."

In our age of throw-away consumerism, I am particularly grateful. For that reason, I turn every one I can to the virtues of Sorbothane.

Again thank you, thank you, thank you.

STEPSHOCK (What You Need To Know )

Each step you take generates a jarring force 50 percent greater than your body weight. We call this painful impact “step shock.” The average person walks as many as three to four miles everyday on hard surfaces. Incredibly, the feet of a 165-pound man bear a cumulative weight of 660 tons a day! Women who wear high heels endure even more foot pain than men. That's because wearing high heels doubles the weight borne by the ball of the foot. No wonder millions of people experience foot pain. Step shock has been proven by sports medicine to be the leading cause of foot pain.


Unfortunately, step shock doesn’t stop at your feet. The pain-causing shock waves travel upward into your knees, hips and back, which causes knee pain, hip pain, backache and back pain.


No part of your body needs more protection from pressure and impact than the soles of your feet. That’s the reason the skin on the bottom of your feet is thicker and denser than on the rest of your body. The fatty pads on the soles of your feet are your natural shock absorbers. After enduring years of step shock, your natural shock absorbers begin to thin and wear out. So, you suffer more foot pain as you get older. You have to replace the natural shock absorbers on the bottom of your feet after years of wear and tear – just like you have to replace your car’s shock absorbers after a certain number of miles.


As we get older our feet lose some of the natural cushioning that absorbs the impact of walking. This “step shock” can travel up legs and spine causing pain and discomfort in the feet, knees, hips, back and even be the cause of headaches. This “step shock” is likely to occur in patients that have arthritis, diabetes or sensitive feet.




 
Shock Absorption Test


View this video clip of  SORBOTHANE® Insole’s remarkable shock absoption qualities:

					With the exception of your shoes, Sorbothane insoles are the most essential piece of gear you can buy to reduce your risk of injury and ensure comfort and athletic performance. Scientifically engineered to be a natural extension of your foot, Sorbothane insoles transform feet into shock-absorbing, energy-returning, go-all-day machines.

Note: Only SORBOTHANE® insole, is used in our  Nurses, Diabetes and Casual Wear shoes has the ability to withstand  or absorb effects of step shock, with maximum retention of comfort and flexibility, enhances  performance and  provides a breathe-able layer to keep feet dry and cool,  while running or walking. 


In short it features:


· Long-term Comfort  
· Compression-set Resistance
· Open Cell – Breathable
· Microcellular Structure
· Fungal Resistant

ADDRESSING FOOT CARE FOR  DIABETICS
94.7% SHOCK ABSORPTION

                                                         

MODEL: WB-D168

Foreword on Diabetes
It is estimated approximately 8.2% of the population or approximately 2.3million of the current population of 28 million  have diabetes in Malaysia and this is on the rise. Nervous system damage (also called neuropathy) affects about 60 to 70 percent of people with diabetes and is a major complication that may cause diabetics to lose feeling in their feet or hands. The trend does not seen to abate.

Second National Health and Morbidity Survey - Diabetes(DIABETES MELLITUS)

Through the Ministry of Health's six year thematic Healthy Lifestyle Campaign which began in 1991, diabetes mellitus was the theme for the year 1995. Here, the promotion of adopting healthy lifestyle practices relating to the prevention of diabetes namely creating awareness and balance diet, maintain ideal body weight and physical activities were encouraged. The campaign also emphasised on creating, awareness of the disease and its complications to the public. Guidelines on management of diabetes and patient education to the diabetes were also developed. In addition, many small studies about diabetes had been conducted either on hospital base or selected communities The first National Health and Morbidity survey included diabetes as a major component in the survey This second National Health and Morbidity Survey, attempted to provide a comparative picture of the epidemiology of diabetes in Malaysia within the last 10 years on a wide population based.

Data on diabetes was obtained from adult respondents 30 years and above through interviews by trained nurses using precoded questionnaires. A 2-hour-post - glucose load test was conducted by the nurses to the respondents who self-professed that they were non-diabetics and have not been diagnosed by any, medical personnel. These non-diabetes were measured for their blood glucose level using glucophotometer in a dry non-wipe technique. 

For the purpose of analysis in this survey, the respondents were categorised into 3 categories. The known diabetes were the adult respondents who self-professed they were diabetics and diagnosed by medical personnel. Those non-diabetics who had undergone the 2 hour - post glucose load test and whose blood glucose measurement level of 11.1 mmol/1 or more were categorised as undiagnosed diabetes. Those with blood glucose measurement of 7.8 - < 11.1 mmol/1 were classified as impaired glucose tolerance (IGT)

From the survey, the national prevalence of known diabetes in Malaysia was found to be 5.7% (5.4% - 6.1%). However, through the 2 hour- post- glucose load test, the national prevalence of undiagnosed diabetes was 2.5% (2.3-2. 7%). Taking into account these 2 categories of diabetes, hence the prevalence of diabetes in Malaysia would be 8.3% (7.8% - 8.7%). From other studies conducted in Malaysia, the prevalence seemed to be on the rise. In 1986, the prevalence of diabetes in Peninsular Malaysia as reported in the first National Health and Morbidity Survey was 6.3% and in 1995 as reported by the Cardiovascular Unit in the Department of Public Health, Ministry of Malaysia was 7.7%.

If estimating the population of Malaysia in 1996 to be approximately 21 million, the total number of diabetic sufferers would approximately be 1.7 million. With further industrialisation plus modernisation, the number of people affected by diabetes may double by 2010. By far, Asia was recognised as having the potential increase with 2.5 to 3 times more common diabetes then it is today. Hence, by 2010, Asia was projected to have 138 million diabetic sufferers.

Foot problems are a big risk in diabetics. Diabetics must constantly monitor their feet or face severe consequences, including amputation. With a diabetic foot, a wound as small as a blister from wearing a shoe that's too tight can lead to a lot of damage. Diabetes decreases blood flow, so injuries are slow to heal. When a wound is not healing, is at risk for infection and infections spread quickly in diabetics.


Prevalence of diabetes in Malaysia was found to be 8.2%. There was an increase in prevalence as compared to the NHMS in 1986, which only reported 6.3% in Peninsular Malaysia.
Information reproduced from The Second National Health and Morbidity Survey II - Diabetes Epidemic in Malaysia was published in 1997 by the Public Health Institute, Ministry of Health, Malaysia


This report is used to primarily focus on the need for diabetes related footwear, an area which is gaining more health focused awareness lately.

Diabetes is fast becoming a dreaded illness in Malaysia. Whilst much effort is being put in place by the relevant authorities to stem this menace, not much is done at the highest level to zoom in on foot care for those already suffering from diabetes. To a diabetic, besides prescribed medication,  avoiding cuts, bruises and injuries  becomes a paramount criteria. One area most susceptible to this is the feet which comes into contact with shoes worn and surface treaded. There are no comprehensive statistics on these kind of problems with feet. Survey suggests, two out of every three workers suffer from some form of a foot problem.


A common side effect of diabetes is "peripheral neuropathy," which causes loss of sensation in the  extremities. Ill-Fitting  shoes which rub or pinch the feet excessively over prolonged time,  can lead to ulceration (pressure ulcers) and foot injury. Diabetics  with peripheral neuropathy will not  feel the injury until it is too late. A common probability  when a diabetic suffers from ulceration or injury , is the setting-in of gangrene. Medically, gangrene related amputation of limbs is an accepted occurrence.

It is very important for a diabetic to have their shoes custom fitted by a trained professional, since they may not be able to feel an improper fit, due to peripheral neuropathy. By ensuring proper fit and good air circulation, properly designed diabetic shoes and insoles prevent pressure ulcers, encourage good blood circulation, and allow the skin to breathe.

Some things to look for in good shoe designs for diabetics are:

• Diabetic Shoes need to have a breathable construction - fabric shoes are good for this.
• Deep and wide designs that allow room for custom pedorthic insoles.
• Designs with no interior seams (or covered seams) to prevent rubbing injuries.
• Diabetic Shoes need a roomy "toe box" to prevent pinching or squeezing of the toes.
• Elastic or easily adjustable fit, to prevent the diabetic shoe from sliding around on the feet

STRIDER® diabetes shoes comes with seamless inner lining to avoid cuts or abrasions, adjustable flap to allow feet movement and air circulation. The WB-D168 model has provision for interchangeability of insoles. Apart from this, much of its other features are explained under the Nursing Shoes product factfile.

Interchangeable Capabilities

STRIDER®  with  SORBOTHANE® insole absorb shock and provide protection to your body with every step you take. SORBOTHANE®  insoles are excellent for everyone who walks, works, plays sports or spends long hours on their feet. Sorbothane® insoles have been proven to dramatically help individuals experiencing foot discomfort caused by medical conditions such as shin splits, heel spurs and ulcerations caused by diabetes.

This model is a hit among after-golfers and travellers. Extensively used by haj pilgrims due to the excellent performance of the SORBOTHANE® insole and seamless internal walls.

PELLICOZ ENGINEERING SDN BHD

Due to its avid knowledge of the local industry in Malaysia, Pellicoz Engineering Sdn Bhd  has formulated material specifications which caters to the local scene, in that it has ensured avoiding use of animal skin in the shoe-making process and replaced it with synthetic materials. 


The method statement for shoe manufacturing  involves planning aspect, design concept, material identification and matching, assembly process for framework, handcraft element , automated assembly line and quality control. These are done in three different locations abroad due to their pecularity and environmental requirements.


Pellicoz Engineering Sdn Bhd in collaboration with an established market research and designer team in the footwear field  with over 30 years experience and the award winning SORBOTHANE® has created a niche in piecing together an enduring and purpose built product.


STRIDER® Nursing and Diabetes shoes are a proprietary product of Pellicoz Engineering Sdn Bhd. By virtue of its usage of  SORBOTHANE® insole, it has the distinction of having its product recognised by the AMERICAN PODRIATIC MEDICAL ASSOCIATION. 


Study Shows
A large majority, in the region of 60-75%, will experience foot problems at some time in their lives" A variety of sources seem to be speaking this common theme about people and foot problems. A.L. Shaffer published that "three out of four Americans will suffer from foot pain Its. It is not very different for the rest of the world. "


(1) It makes sense that the percentage is so high since many people deal with heel pain, plantar fascia pain, and numbness or tingling. Other foot problems may include hammer toes, bunions, and ingrown nails. Because we place such a high demand on our feet, and they are often abused, many people will experience foot problems. The foot contains the following: 26 bones, 33 joints, 107 ligaments, 19 muscles, and tendons.
(2) The complexity of the foot makes it prone to injury and leaves a lot of potential for suffering, pain, and disease. It is important to always have the proper foot wear, but it doesn’t stop there you have to have the proper shoe insoles as well, please view our entire  line to discover which insole is the best for you. "Your feet absorb roughly 300 tons of force during a 3 mile run" Your feet absorb an incredible amount of impact - the equivalent of tons with every mile that is run, and the equivalent of several pounds with every step that is taken. Some have compared the weight to that of a cement truck, and others use shear numbers to drive the point home. The exact shock absorbed will vary greatly on the person's weight, running surface, foot wear and even running mechanics. For those who like exact numbers, the American Podiatric Association's research notes that "150-pound person walking just one mile exerts a force of 63.5 tons on a single foot."
(3) Additionally, two researchers have published that an average marathon runner takes 38,000 steps and "each step loads the lower extremity with 4 to 8 times body weight. If we use these figures to extrapolate loading over the marathon distance, the lower extremity joints absorb forces in excess of 5,000 tons."
(4) The verdict is that the feet absorb tons of during our daily activities, and knowing this you should give your feet a break and try out a pair of SORBOTHANE® shoe insoles, to help absorb some of that force. "Women are four times more likely to experience foot problems than men. " In a study looking at the effects of standing on pain, researchers noted that women had higher incidents of pain in their feet and lower leg than men.
(5) Another study (not specifically comparing men vs. women in regards to their foot problems) found that "eighty-seven percent of the sample had at least one foot problem. Women had a significantly higher foot problem score than did men."
(6) Podiatrist note that ill fitting shoes are often the cause for foot problems, and untreated issues lead to the development of more problems. Many women wear heels which often stress the feet and therefore cause injury. Improper foot wear leads to bunions, calluses, nerve impingement in addition to heel pain. It seems that across all age groups, and ethnicities, women suffer from more foot problems than men.
(7) So to help avoid some of these potential problems try on a pair of the SORBOTHANE metatarsal insole pads, or any of the other SORBOTHANE® insoles. "Recent surveys show that heel pain affect 40% of Americans" This is provided straight from the American Podiatric Council.
(8) Their research leads the way with all foot related matters and they comment that we often spend a lot of time on our feet and that we wear improper footwear, and inadequate insoles or none at all. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons also note a high prevalence of heel pain. They attribute the pain to, amongst other things, plantar fasciitis, heel bruises, or heel spurs.
(9) Scott Wearing and his colleagues determined that when the fat pad loses its ability to disperse energy, heel pain ensued.
(10) To help prevent heel pain try a pair of the "Sorbothane® SorboGel Heel pad" or the "Sorbothane® Ultra Heel Cup". Any RXSorbo® shoe insoles though have extra padding in the heel to help prevent heel pain so no matter what your choice you will notice a difference. "The average person walks about 10,000 steps a day" We are told to aim for 10,000 steps per day in order to maintain a minimum level of activity. Richard Bohannon found that his subjects took closer to 9,500 steps and as the population got older, they took fewer steps.
(11) Other researchers have come to similar conclusions that people walk much less than 10,000 steps per day,
(12) and perhaps that is one reason why we are seeing an increase in obesity rates and obesity related problems. By aiming to take 10,000 steps, a person can begin to make progress at some of these issues contributed by inactivity. "A sedentary person may only average 1,000 to 3,000 steps a day. For these people adding steps has many health benefits" notes one website.
(13) Regardless of the number of steps taken, the body endures a lot of stress with every step, and care must be taken to avoid increasing activity too quickly. So strap up your shoes, toss in a pair of your favorite RXSorbo® shoe insoles and start getting out there. Please note that RXSorbo® insoles are great as running insoles and walking insoles. "Only a small percentage of the population is born with foot problems." Outside of genetic/congenital birth defects very few are born with foot problems. The problems that do exist are considered rare by most doctors, and most have good outcomes with early intervention. The website www.epodiatry.com notes that "Foot pain and symptoms in children is not common compared to adults due to the flexibility and resilience of the tissues."
(14) Along the same line of thought are the authors from www.eorthopod.com who note that "with all of these foot problems, treatment is started early with gentle stretching, serial manipulation and casting, and sometimes surgery. For very mild problems, await-and-see approach may be all that's needed."
(15) It seems that the foot problems that develop are self inflicted and many are preventable. We need to be aware of our shoes, insoles, walking surface, walking mechanics, and activity level in order to help avoid foot ailments. Try an insole with some arch support like the "Sorbothane® Ultra Orthotic Arch" or the "Sorbo® Orthotic Arch" both great insole with plenty of arch support.