Abigail Rappa, DPM

Running shoes are often blamed when a runner develops foot or leg pain. Maybe the shoes feel different than they used to. Maybe a new pair seems to cause blisters. Or perhaps someone has told you that your flat feet, high arches, or running style means you need a specific type of shoe. But the relationship between running shoes and injury is more complicated than that. Research suggests that running injuries have many possible causes, and there is not strong evidence that one particular type...

Cracked heels develop when the skin on the heels becomes dry and thickened. The heels naturally experience significant pressure and friction during walking and standing, which often leads to the formation of calluses. When these calluses become excessively dry, the skin can split, resulting in painful cracks known as heel fissures. Certain medical conditions and age-related changes can also increase a person’s risk of developing cracked heels. Several factors can contribute to the...

Many women begin an exercise program with one goal in mind: getting "toned" arms. But despite what fitness trends may suggest, there isn't a workout that magically creates muscle definition or burns fat from one specific area. The good news? You can build stronger, more defined arms at any age. The key is understanding what "toned" really means and using evidence-based strength training strategies that become even more important after age 30. What Does It Mean to Be "Toned"? Contrary to...