Podiatrist In Chicago Offers Helpful Foot And Ankle Tips For Cyclists

CHICAGO, IL, June 03, 2013 (Press-News.org) With the weather warming up in Chicago, many residents will take to bicycling to work or recreationally. Dr. James Lavell, podiatrist in Chicago, understands the convenience of cycling around the city, but urges cyclists to be aware of their foot and ankle health. Today, more than 100 million Americans enjoy biking, either as recreation or, increasingly, for commuting to work each day. Dr. Lavell is happy to offer helpful foot and ankle tips for those who choose to ride their bikes this summer.

"The foot is the contact point with the cycling pedal. Because of this, foot problems are not uncommon with bicyclists. Most of these complications can be easily fixed and prevented. As long as the bones, muscles, and joints of the lower extremity are properly aligned with each other, there is an efficient and pain-free excursion of the pedal," said Dr. James Lavell, Chicago podiatrist.

Patients who are casual or recreational cyclists, a typical athletic shoe used for running, walking, or cross training is a good match for biking. Dr. Lavell, Chicago, IL podiatrist, encourages his patients to be sure that the sole is firm and not worn down so that it properly grips the pedal to avoid slipping. For more serious cyclists, Dr. Lavell says that proper bicyclist shoes are the most important piece of equipment, next to the bicycle itself.

The more stable and less movement inside the shoe, the more power can be transferred through the entire foot to the pedal. Dr. Lavell, podiatrist in Chicago, IL, also recommends shoes that have ventilated uppers to keep the feet more comfortable. When it comes to closure systems-lacing, buckles, straps, and Velcro-the method that is most comfortable to the bicyclist is important to utilize. However, it is important to be careful of any loose ends and buckles, as they can pose a safety hazard.

Dr. James Lavell treats cyclists who have sustained overuse injuries by pushing themselves beyond their limitations. Pain that persists, as well as all athletic injuries, indicates a need to seek treatment from Dr. Lavell, Chicago podiatrist. Some of the most common cycling injuries include Achilles tendonitis, numbness, Sesamoiditis, and shin splints, among others.

To stop pain before it starts, Dr. James Lavell encourages cyclists to stretch the major muscle groups that are used when biking-the gluteals, the quadriceps, calves and hamstrings-before and after getting on the bicycle. If pain or discomfort is experienced, Dr. Lavell, podiatrist in Chicago, urges his patients to contact his office immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment.

"Bicycling is a fun and exciting activity to do in the city, which is why it is important to take proper care of our feet and legs. When we experience pain, it can prove to be difficult for us while biking. At the first onset of any discomfort or pain, I recommend visiting my office immediately for proper treatment so that you don't have to miss out on biking in the summer weather this year," said Dr. James Lavell.

For more information, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. James Lavell, offering Chciago PinPointe laser treatment, patients can visit the practice website at http://www.lavellfootcare.com/ or by calling the office at (773) 525 - 0204.

About Dr. James Lavell, LTD: Dr. James Lavell has been a solo practitioner for 31 years, and is Board Certified in Podiatric Surgery, as well as Board Certified in Laser Surgery. Maintaining the highest levels of accreditation, Dr. Lavell offers an array of services and treatments, including PinPointe laser treatment for toenail fungus, among others. Dr. Lavell graduated from the Illinois College Podiatric Medicine in 1981 and has maintained hospital affiliations since 1983. With podiatry constantly advancing, Dr. Lavell remains on the cutting edge of technology and treatment through continuing education, in addition to being a lecturer on an array of podiatric topics, including laser surgery.

Media Contact:
Dr. James Lavell
contactus@lavellfootcare.com
2032 West Irving Park Road
Chicago, IL 60618
(773) 525-0204
http://www.lavellfootcare.com/