If the Shoe Fits - Do Your Children Have Healthy Feet?

It seems that every few months your children need new shoes and you may try to stretch your budget by fixing their current shoes or by giving them a pair a big sister or brother has discarded. Unfortunately, either solution may not be good for the feet of the child who needs a shoe fix. Some health issues caused by improperly fitted, worn out or hand me down shoes include plantar fasciitis, Morton's neuroma, excessive sweating, hammertoes, corns, bunions and blisters.

Feet are critical to the overall health of the human body. Your children have 26 bones in their feet with almost half of them located in the toes. In addition to bones they have 19 muscles, 107 ligaments and 33 joints making their feet incredibly complex. As an adult you know from experience what problems foot pain or injuries can cause in your day-to-day life and this is even more frustrating for a child.

One way you can reduce or eliminate the possibility of problems with your children's feet is by inspecting their feet and shoes frequently. A foot inspection will alert you to problems your child has not yet found painful, and a shoe inspection will help you decide whether or not you want to repair or replace them. Following is a suggested checklist of issues to be considered.

Let's start with the foot inspection:

1. What is the size of the feet being inspected? Most people have one foot larger than the rest. If you are not sure of the size take your child to a shoe store to be sized properly.
2. Are there any obvious defects such as blisters, fissures, bunions, corns or spots that are just plain red and irritated?
4. Do you see any large patches of excessively dry skin?
5. Give your child a foot massage and watch for signs of pain or cramping.
6. Make note of any problems that necessitate a visit to your pediatrician.

Next, we'll move on to the shoe inspection:

1. Pay attention to the size of the shoes as compared to the current size your child wears. It may be possible to continue wearing shoes slightly bigger than the current size but never let them wear shoes that are to small.
2. How does the sole of the shoe look? Was it thin to begin with or has it thinned in response to use?
3. Is either heel loose?
4. Ask your child to put the shoes back on and check if they have adequate toe room or places where there the shoe causes friction against their skin.
5. Have your child walk in the shoes so you can see their gait.

When you have finished looking at your child's feet and shoes consider if you can repair any issues without harming the feet that wear the shoes. If there is no toe room but the shoes otherwise fit you may be able to stretch the toe box with stretching spray and a shoe stretcher depending on the fabric of the shoes.

If the soles of the shoe have become very flimsy or stretch easily in response to pressure then your child may develop plantar fasciitis which is a painful inflammation of the connective tissues in the arch of the foot. If you can flex the shoes below the toe box then the shoes need to be replaced.

When the heel of your child's shoes are too loose compared to the rest of the shoe, use a heel insert made for children. You want to avoid having your child develop hammertoes caused by using their toes to keep the shoes from slipping off. Calluses on the tops of the toes is a giveaway that the heels of the shoes are too lose.

If the shoes fit well but there a few spots of pressure, try using different socks. Socks now come in a variety of thickness and weight. Your little one may need a thicker sock to prevent pressure wear particularly if they often wear sports shoes.

If the issues with your child's feet seem ongoing despite new and well fitting shoes, they may need an orthotic device. Ask your pediatrician to recommend an orthopedist or podiatrist for an evaluation. Most orthotic devices are made of plastic and help distribute body weight evenly and realign the foot.

The feet your child is born with are the feet they need to carry them throughout their life. Paying attention to their feet can improve their overall health by eliminating leg, back and neck pain. A child will walk the distance around the earth three or four times during their lifetime. Don't you want to make that journey as pain free and comfortable as possible?

(c) 2008, Odd Shoe Finder. Reprints welcomed so long as the article and by-line are not changed and all links are made live.

If you are looking for affordable shoes for your children, Kent Basson of OddShoeFinder.com has the solution for you. Kent initially created this on-line auction style shoe store to help people find one shoe or two matching shoes in different sizes. The site has evolved and now offers a generous selection of affordable shoes in the same size, two different sizes or only one shoe. To buy or sell shoes visit http://www.oddshoefinder.com today!

UGG Men Boots

You're on Vacation, Not in a Mental Institution - Dress Accordingly

It's the heart of the good old summertime, and men everywhere have descended on the resort towns, beaches, casinos, and other vacation hot spots. Sadly, many of them are enjoying their leisure time solo - and by solo, we do not mean Han Solo, who was always pretty good at winning the hearts of the ladies.

Oh, you could think about a lot of reasons that you aren't being bombarded by babes battling for your affections. Perhaps the ladies in question are not inclined toward the opposite sex, or perhaps they're just plain nuts. But maybe - just maybe - before you pass judgment on them, you should take a quick look in the mirror.

Back in the days before the Slobbification of America took place, men would pack very different attire in their summer vacation valises than what they'd pack for a business trip. Gone would be the blue or gray flannel suit, Oxford-cloth shirts, and wingtips. Instead, the suitcase would contain blazers, Madras shirts, a white dinner jacket, and slacks - including the de rigueur white flannel variety.

Today, the summer suitcase can be much lighter, thanks to a number of cunning, if vile, innovations in the way of men's attire. However, most of these creations are not worn well by the vast majority of men, who appear dumpy, cheap, and shoddy in them.

First and foremost among the vacation clothing that one should never, ever wear is the tank top. I don't know exactly why these are called tank tops - perhaps this is what people driving heavy, hot metal tanks during World War II wore, because driving a tank can be a hot, sweaty business. Maybe they're called tank tops because people who wear them look like the bulging part of water tanks. Or perhaps - and I believe this to be the most likely - they're called tank tops because one would only really choose to wear such a garment if one was tanked.

By tanked, lest there be any mistake, I mean totally wasted drunk.

When women think of tank tops, they don't think of NBA stars and guys in the Olympics. No. What women think of when they see a guy in a tank top is Tony Soprano lumbering down the driveway in that ratty old bathrobe to pick up the paper. Or of his nephew Christopher snorting a line of cocaine. If she's not familiar with the Sopranos, then you can pretty much guess that she's thinking about that well-known tank top-wearing athlete - Richard Simmons.

A tank top brings out all the worst in the body of any man who is not working out at least six hours a day. 'Nuff said.

Another Generic Beer in the Great Big Urinal of Bad Fashion is that old staple, the Hawaiian shirt. This statement must be prefaced with the assertion that Hawaiian shirts are acceptable - if you're in Hawaii. Otherwise, this garment brings to mind the old guys who really, really like Jimmy Buffett, Larry from Three's Company, and once again, Tony Soprano.

Let's just cut to the chase - anything that Tony Soprano would wear is not going to be a good choice. So add to your list of no-no's velour jogging suits, which were another popular item apparel in Tony's well-padded closet.

I totally understand that Tony Soprano appeared to get a lot of women on that show. To put to rest any confusion on your part, let me reiterate that the Sopranos was a TV show. All of the women won by Tony Soprano were actresses, bound by their contracts to appear to have tender feelings for him. In his case, clothes did not make the man.

Okay, okay, okay. So pack a few tank tops if you must, and even throw in some rubber flip-flops. However, err on the side of class and good taste and pack at least one good suit or jacket and tie, some well-tailored shirts, some stylish ties, and a few pairs of unique designer silver cufflinks.

Cufflinks are an excellent choice of accessory for a guy trying to start a conversation - and maybe more - with the lady of his choice. Because they are unfailingly stylish and proper, said lady will be more likely to sit and chat over a glass of wine - or a big-ass pina colada - with you than if you happened to be wearing a tank top and a pair of elastic-waist shorts.

They also come in many styles, so you'll find a pair appropriate to whatever locale you happen to be visiting. If you're in Florida, choose a pair of alligator links, or turtles for the Galapagos, or sharks for Australia. If you're on a golf trip, pick a pair of cufflinks fashioned like golf balls, or if you're in Paris, choose some tiny silver Eiffel Tower cufflinks.

The fact is that the number of styles available is really limitless, so expand your horizons - and your chances - by picking up a few pairs, and see how far it gets you.

Whether your interests are in silver, gold, artistic, sports, or other theme-related cufflinks we've got you covered. Cufflink Aficionado carries a broad range of men's cufflinks designed to meet each connoisseur's individual style and interest. Our selection of mens cuff links are sure to top off that perfect look.

Ugg Australia

UGG Slippers - Stay Cozy in Style, Naturally!

Got cold feet about the upcoming winter weather? If you find yourself dreading the season of frigid floorboards every year, it's definitely time you discovered the cozy comfort of UGG Australia TM sheepskin slippers.

When it comes to keeping your feet comfy, absolutely nothing beats UGG slippers. Unlike other cheap, synthetic imitation styles, UGG slippers are made of genuine Grade-A sheepskin, which is soft, plush and wonderfully insulating. Sheepskin is also naturally thermostatic-which means it keeps your feet toasty warm during winter's worst, but comfortably cool in summer months as well.

If you've spent many a winter mourning your chilly feet, you're sure to find UGG Australia's sheepskin slippers a godsend. Long gone are the days of layering several pairs of wool socks to keep warm around the house! UGG slippers will keep your feet cozier than anything.

What's more, these styles are built to last. Sheepskin is one of the most durable fibers available, and it performs year after year. Cheaper imitation UGG slippers might look good at first, but they tend to be made of itchy synthetics that quickly lose their shape and deteriorate. If you're looking for long-lasting comfort and style, you'll find UGG slippers go the extra mile.

There are a wide range of great styles and colors to choose from for women, men, kids and even infants. For women, the UGG Coquette has always been a popular choice, with its slip-on styling, soft interior and sueded exterior. The grooved rubber outsoles make these slippers great for both indoor and outdoor use, and they're so comfy and stylish, you just might find yourself wearing them all day long.

If you prefer traditional sheepskin moccasins, the Women's Dakota is another amazing UGG slipper. Plush and comfy, these gorgeous mocs surround your feet with luxury at home or in the cabin. The lace up ties adjust for the perfect fit.

This season's most popular new UGG slippers for women are the ruggedly beautiful Ester UGG Moccasins and the chic and comfy Pearl UGG Slippers. The adorable Fluff Scuff Slippers are perennial favorites as well, along with the iconic Cozy II.

For men who love mocs, the Byron Moccasin is an excellent choice. Like the Dakota, it delivers traditional moc styling in comfortable, durable twin-faced sheepskin. The Men's UGG Ascott is the quintessential gentleman's slipper, with a plush sheepskin interior and a handsome leather finish.

The Men's UGG Tasman is another one of the most popular UGG slipper styles for men. Much more than just a slipper, the Tasman seamlessly doubles as a shoe. It's made of smooth, durable suede that's lined with sheepskin for all-day comfort, whether kicking around town, home or the beach. Signature UGG Australia Tasman braiding around the openings lends this slip-on style a distinctive finish, and the UGG Classic outsoles make it terrific for both indoor and outdoor wear.

There are all sorts of adorable kids' UGG slippers as well, from the Kids' Cozy to the Kids' Tasman Slipper Shoe and the spunky sheepskin Kids' Mini Mel Shoes.

With the gift-giving season just around the corner, UGG slippers are well worth considering for just about everyone on your list. Fashionistas love the chic, comfy styles; men appreciate the quality craftsmanship and comfort; people with poor circulation enjoy the added warmth sheepskin offers; and kids love the fun, cozy slippers too.

Ready to find some comfy UGG slippers for yourself and your family? Head on over to Overland.com, the sheepskin experts, for a terrific selection of UGG slippers, boots, shoes and much more.

An experienced fashion writer, Nicole Travelle holds an M. A. in journalism and is the in-house copywriter for http://www.Overland.com

Nicole is currently in love with UGG Slippers and the UGG Australia line in general, but she'll happily wax poetic on anything from shearling coats to cozy sweaters and designer leathers. Throughout her 10-year career as a writer, Nicole has written about everything from women's health and fitness to book reviews, restaurant critiques and more - but her true love is women's fashion.

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