As everyone returns back to work and school, this month’s issue showcases some activities, tips and challenges to make the transition back to work or school easier on your body.
This Month’s Topics:
- Being more body aware
- Custom foot orthotics
- 6 characteristics of a good shoe
- Fun facts
Being More Body Aware
Being more body aware is important. When our bodies get tight and sore in certain areas, our bodies are talking to us. Today, Kim challenges you to start listening to your body by being still in your body for three minutes and trying to see how your fascial system is connected. Over the next six weeks, we will pass on simple concepts and principles on how to connect your body. This isn’t your average “desk stretches” routine.
Click here to see the Kim’s challenge.
Custom Foot Orthotics
Are you getting back to work in the office this fall?
It’s time to trade in those slippers for some custom-made foot orthotics.
Custom-made foot orthotics can help reduce foot, knee, hip and back pain, and to stay comfy with all the new movement.
Commonly asked questions about foot orthotics:
Are custom foot orthotics covered under most personal insurance?
Yes, many extended healthcare plans include orthotics.
Will orthotics fit in my favourite shoes?
Yes, our custom-made orthotics fit in most stylish shoes so you don’t have to compromise.
How can orthotics help my pain when it’s nowhere near my feet?
The impact you experience when your foot hits the ground, though you might not feel it with each step, affects the entire body. Consequently, your knees, hips, spine, and neck are prone to aches and pains. Orthotics help soften the blow when your foot hits the ground. They also help relieve tension on muscles from standing a lot.
Why do my orthotics feel uncomfortable?
You might feel pressure and discomfort in your foot and joints as your body gets used to the orthotics. The body is adjusting as the orthotics realign the structure of your foot and posture. To help alleviate discomfort, start by wearing your orthotics in two-hour intervals and increase the time over the next two weeks.
Will wearing orthotics weaken the muscles in my feet?
Orthotics do not affect muscle tone. They do, however, help your feet use the proper muscles and reduce fatigue.
Let’s get you fitted for custom orthotics today! Call 204 775 4539 or go to the link to book your appointment.
6 Characteristics of a Good Shoe
- Good heel support
- Your foot should be supported in the heel area. This is to stop any movement in the heel horizontally or vertically.
- Breathable material to allow ventilation
- A good shoe should allow for ventilation of heat and sweat.
- A good sole
- A good shoe should have a thick enough sole to absorb shock from daily movement such as walking, running or skipping.
- The shoe sole should also have a good grip to prevent slipping or unnecessary movements of the foot inside the shoe that can cause injury.
- Wiggle room for your toes
- Your shoes should have space inside so you can wiggle your toes and that there isn’t any pitching in your big toe or pinky toe.
- Adjustable
- You should be wearing shoes that are adjustable, Velcro, or laced. This way the shoe can be adjusted to secure your foot the best way possible.
- Insoles
Insoles should be made of a material that is soft and durable. Like gel, foam or air. This is to reduce the impact that your feet take every day while moving.
We have a blog post specifically dedicated to the understanding of good insoles and orthotics. It discusses why you might need custom orthotics and the true cause of different types of pain in the back, knee and ankle. You can read it here.
Fun Facts
- The average person walks 65,000 miles in their lifetime – that’s equivalent to walking three times around the world.
- Walking increases blood flow to the brain and improves your mood.
- Walking for 10 miles every week would eliminate 500 lb. of carbon dioxide emissions each year.
- Walking 6,000 steps per day will help improve your health and walking 10,000 will help you lose weight.
- To burn off a plain M&M candy, you need to walk the length of a football field.