A new study from Spain evaluated volunteers with an average age of 75. They showed that elderly people who wore the ill-fitting shoes have a lower quality of life in areas related to pain, foot function, general health, and physical activity. This study demonstrates the importance of wearing supportive shoes that fit properly.
A Possible Mechanical Risk for Melanoma of the Foot
Can walking or running increase the risk of the skin cancer melanoma on your feet?
A
recent study out of Japan suggests that repetitive mechanical stress and pressure on our feet might increase the risk of melanoma. They found a higher number of cases of melanoma in areas of more pressure such as the heel and the ball of the foot and a lower number of cases in areas of less pressure such as the arch. This was published last week in the New England Journal of Medicine.
This is a good reminder to inspect your feet during routine skin cancer exams.
Paper Tape Can Help Prevent Foot Blisters
If you get blisters while running, there is a simple solution that might help. Researchers have shown that applying paper tape to blister-prone areas of the foot reduces the occurrence of blister formation. Their findings were recently published in the Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine. Read more here.