About Malkin's

Malkin's Functional Footwear Philosophy

People who come to us at Malkin's Functional Footwear don't come in for just another pair of shoes. Many have worn fashionable, unsupportive shoes for years and it has taken it's toll on their feet and body. Many others have health conditions that require a special shoe or shoe modification. Many are just looking for a stronger, more supportive, better quality shoe that cannot be found in a local mall. Whatever the reason, Malkin's Functional Footwear has the shoe for you!

All by Lance Malkin, C.Ped.

Plantar fasciitis & Heel Spurs

The most common cause of heel pain, in adults, is "Plantar Fasciitis. The term "Plantar" refers the bottom of the foot. "Fascia" is a type of connective tissue, and "it is" means inflammation. Heel spurs are deposits of calcium in the plantar fascia attachment to the heel. Heel spurs are generally the result of plantar fasciitis left untreated, or incorrectly treated. Unfortunately, the latter is more common. The "Plantar Fascia" supports the long arches of the foot like a bowstring. Inadequate support to the arches stresses the "Plantar Fascia". A gradual introduction of arch support in orthopedic oxfords will address the cause effectively. Many of the most commonly suggested treatments such as; heel cushions, higher heeled shoes, night splints, ultra sound, (and the two worst possible options) surgery, and cortisone injections only address the symptoms while worsening the problem, ultimately! Heel cushions worn regularly place too much pressure on the forefoot, and will eventually lead to forefoot deformities such as hammertoes and bunions.

At Malkin's Functional Footwear and Orthotics we focus on the cause of the problem. The correct type of shoe, with a broad foundation, strong heel support, and generous toe room is the place to start. Next, the shoe must introduce gentle arch support, which should be increased gradually over many weeks. We also recommend a well arched house slipper to prevent morning and evening re-injury. It is particularly crucial in the morning.

We never rush into making full support custom orthotics. It is better to be castes for orthotics once the pain is gone. Then a cast can be made of the foot in the position which does not hurt, rather than casting the foot in the same condition in which it was in pain. That is a large part of the secret of making comfortable orthotics which work.

Arthritis, Diabetes, and What Their Shoes Should Have in Common

Diabetes and Rheumatoid Arthritis have nearly opposite effects on the foot. Diabetics develop numbness, or "peripheral neuropathy". Rheumatoid Arthritics endure excessive pain and hypersensitivity. The two would seem diametrically opposed from this perspective, yet they find a perfect common ground in their shoe needs. The insensitivity of the diabetic foot will allow the foot to continue to tread repeatedly upon imperfections and pressure areas within a shoe until very serious wounds occur. The hypersensitive foot will experience substantial pain while walking on any such irregularities. The remarkable commonality is that a shoe which would not cause pain for the arthritic foot is the same shoe which would not wound the diabetic neuropathic foot.

At Malkin's Functional Footwear, we explain that for either situation, the shoe required must have adequate depth inside to accommodate an orthosis which will distribute the "weight bearing surface" over the greatest area, thereby reducing the chances of pressure adding up in any one spot. The shoe must also have a very broad forefoot to enhance balance for people whose toes are limited by pain, numbness, wounds, or deformed joints. It is important for the shoe to have some vertical stability to the heel area, to assist with balance and to promote a "neutral arch" position. These are just the start of the long list of other factors (e.g.. The sole shape, leather, closure, etc.)

We at Malkin's Functional Footwear, have been providing the very best shoes and pedorhtic technologies for people from the hypersensitive to the insensitive and everyone in between since 1985. We use only the finest shoes and materials. All of our orthotics and shoe modifications are hand crafted on our premises and can adjusted while you wait.

FAQ

1. What is a Pedorthist?

A Pedorthist is a person who is trained and certified to fill prescriptions for orthotics and shoe modifications. To become a Pedorthist (C.Ped) , one must fulfill the education requirements approved by the American Board for Certification of Orthotics, Prosthetics, and Pedorthists (ABC-OP). Our pedorthist Lance, has been a C.Ped for over 20 years. He continues to further his education in his field.

2. Do I need a prescription to see a Pedorthist?

Of course not! Many people come in because they heard about us from a family member or a friend, or just walked in. We do, however, fill prescriptions.

3. Why is it so important for a Diabetic to have a supportive shoe fit by a Pedorthist?

The most important thing for diabetics is PREVENTION. Many Diabetics experience neuropathy, or numbness. Therefore, they do not realize that an improper shoe is doing damage until the damage is done, and wounds are created. This could lead to bigger complications such as amputations. A Pedorthist will find an appropriate shoe, which fits correctly and create footbeds (orthotics) in order to prevent or heal wounds.

4. What are other common ailments that people come in for?

People come in for many different reasons. Complications from Diabetes and Arthritis are quite common, however, there are a great variety of reasons which lead people to us. By wearing non-supportive shoes, people create problems such as heel spurs, knee pain, hammertoes, plantar faciitis, tendonitis, bunions, poor arches, and lower back pain. Those with limb length discrepencies, both congenital and resulting from sugeries require supportive shoes as well. People also come to us to find a good, supportive shoe, to prevent any problems.

5. I am a Diabetic on Medicare. I heard that Medicare will pay for my shoes. How does this work?

Through the Therapeutic Shoe Bill, Medicare will allow a Diabetic to receive one pair of shoes and three pairs of inserts every calendar year. All one has to do is come in or contact us for the Diabetic Certification and Superbill forms. Your doctor (MD OR DO only) must fill out and sign the Diabetic Certification form. The Superbill must be filled out and signed by the patient. Then we determine the correct Medicare approved shoes, then fit diabetic appropriate inserts.

6. I am a runner. Can Malkin's Functional Footwear help me with shin splints, tendonitis, knee problems, etc..?

Yes we can. Proper alignment of the heel and midfoot will create a level foundation for the tibia (shin bone) and ankle to stay stable, which is the basis for dealing with the vast majority of athletic injuries.We have help many types of athletes with these common problems, such as runners, skiers/snowboarders, walkers, tennis players, soccer players, etc...

7. I wear the correct shoes all of the time, but have a special event to go to. Can I wear my dress shoes?

Yes. What matters the most in footwear is what you wear most of the time. Wearing dress shoes for a couple of hours is ok. We also can modify your dress shoe to make it more bearable. We also have a variety of beautiful dress shoes.

8. I have a very wide/narrow foot. Do you have shoes to fit me?

Of course we have shoes to accommodate a wide variety of sizes and shapes. We have searched extensively to find the highest quality shoes in different sizes and lasts that are not just supportive, but stylish too.