Latest news with #SayleeTulpule
New York Post
15-05-2025
- Health
- New York Post
4 nail salon red flags that can lead to infection — and why you should skip the gel pedicure
UV got to be kidding! If you're a regular at nail salons, you may be dismayed to learn that your pedicure may be more of a pedi-curse. 'Getting pedicures, especially at a nail salon, can increase potential risks of bacterial, fungal and viral infections — nail salons are hot spots for toenail fungus,' podiatrist Dr. Saylee Tulpule told The Post. 3 Nail salons are hot spots in the summer — and potential hot beds for infection. Nomad_Soul – Forget about getting the hot stone massage — because this news is a stone-cold bummer. According to Tulpule, you should be especially cautious if you get the sense that your technician is…not altogether competent. 'Improper technique by a nail technician can also lead to ingrown toenail infections or skin breakdown, especially if using cuticle nippers or graters to file thick, callused skin,' she explained. Other red flags to watch for Technician reuses tools or the tools look dirty — they should come from sterilized packaging Foot baths are not cleaned properly or a new sterile bag isn't placed for a new client Use of improper tools, like graters and razor blades, which can lead to cuts Nail polish appears too old And we've got some more bad news — gel pedicures may last longer, but they come with their own set of hazards. 3 Clean tools are essential. Use caution if the salon or the instruments look dirty. didesign – Tulpule says the UV light may increase your risk of skin cancer, while 'thinning or weakening the nail plate prior to applying the durable gel color' can damage the nail. 'Gel polish creates a firm seal, and if moisture or trauma happens to the nail plate, it can increase one's risk of toenail fungus or bacterial infection — I see this quite commonly in my practice,' she said. If you decide to go the salon route, it's best to BYONP, or polish at your own peril. 'Bringing your own nail polish can reduce chances of fungal nail transmission — fungal hyphae can live in between the bristles of the brush,' she said. 'There are 'cleaner' brands that exclude harsh chemicals, like toluene, DBP or formaldehyde,' she added. 'Clean ingredients can improve nail health.' 3 Podiatrist Dr. Saylee Tulpule explains the health hazards to look for at the nail salon — plus, why you should bring your own polish and skip the gel pedi. Instagram/@thesoledoctor And while getting your callouses shaved like a chunk of perfectly-ripened Parmesan can be enormously satisfying — Tulpule recommends skipping for safety reasons. 'Improper technique or tools, such as using a grater or razor, can cause skin breakdown and increase one's chances of an infection,' she said. 'If the calluses are shaved down aggressively, over and over again, they may re-grow thicker and harder with time.' Whether you keep your regular mani/pedi appointment or opt to just DIY at home, it's important to give nails a rest from time to time. 'I always tell my patients to let them breathe during the fall/winter months, when one is more likely to wear close-toed shoes,' she said. 'Generally speaking, remove polish every four to six weeks and give nails a break for one to two weeks.' Salon horror stories — be it botched acrylics or viral TikToks of green, oozing toenails — are all too common. One woman was left horrified after she appeared to grow mold under her acrylics. Another woman lost her toenail entirely after a routine pedicure. Moral of the story? When it comes to your feet, it pays to tread carefully.
Forbes
23-04-2025
- Health
- Forbes
The Best Sandals For Plantar Fasciitis, According To Podiatric Experts
If you've ever dealt with plantar fasciitis—a painful condition afflicting the heel—you know how important it is to wear supportive shoes. Good footwear can absorb shock, distribute pressure and take strain off your feet. And if you're someone who wears open-toed footwear, finding the best sandals for plantar fasciitis is a smart step in the right direction. Our top pick, the Oofos OOriginal Sandal, uses lightweight, cushy foam to support and protect your feet. It's just one of the many sandals we recommend for those seeking relief. The best sandals for plantar fasciitis can offer short-term relief for heel pain and play a role in ... More long-term healing. 'The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, from the heel to the arch,' says Dr. Saylee Tulpule, a board certified podiatrist. 'When there is strain placed upon this ligament, it is known as plantar fasciitis. This increased tension results in inflammation and heel and arch pain.' Although it's a highly unpleasant condition, it's not permanent, and relief can come in the form of supportive footwear. Below, the best sandals for plantar fasciitis, and how to find a pair that's right for you. OOFOS Sizes: 3 to 16 | Materials: Closed-cell foam | Colors: 4 Pros: Cons: Soft, supportive and lightweight, Oofos Ooriginal Sandals were designed with foot relief in mind. They are purpose-built 'recovery sandals' for short-term use after an intense workout at the gym or a long run, or for those suffering from plantar fasciitis. Made entirely of closed cell foam, each sandal weighs a mere 6.5 ounces, and they come in a wide range of sizes to accommodate different feet. The foot settles into a layer of foam that acts as a soft cradle, lessening impact over hard surfaces, and ensures every step feels a bit like walking on a cloud. When not on your feet, these odor-resistant sandals won't give off unpleasant fragrances, and they can be safely tossed in the washing machine if need be. Some reviews say they run a bit large, and an improper fit can hinder plantar fasciitis relief, so be ready to size down. Also note the wide thong strap can feel awkward between your toes and might take some getting used to, especially if you're accustomed to slides. All told, these are highly-rated and well-trusted sandals that have brought relief to thousands of feet. Amazon Sizes: 5 to 11 | Materials: Vegan leather, EVA, rubber | Colors: 13 Pros: Cons: If you are suffering from plantar fasciitis but don't want to spend a lot of money on cushioned sandals with good orthopedic arch support, then you'll be in good company with the many thousands of people who have purchased sandals from Coface. These affordable and actually rather stylish sandals have a thick, soft footbed that's shaped to support your arches and reduce the symptoms of plantar fasciitis. And as they come in more than a dozen colors, they can support your fashion sense, too. An adjustable strap lets you get a proper, secure fit, but note that a number of confirmed wearers have called that strap rather flimsy. If you're looking for sandals you can wear daily for months or years to come, this price-conscious style probably won't cut it, but for relief from acute plantar fasciitis, they are a well-reasoned buy. Vionic Sizes: 5 to 13 | Materials: Leather, canvas, rubber, nitrogen-infused foam | Colors: 8 Pros: Cons: If you are going to be logging many long miles on your feet, then you might consider wearing a pair of Vionic Walk Max Wanderer Sandals. They feature two thick adjustable bands that secure your foot right where it needs to be for plantar fasciitis relief—in close contact with that thick, soft and supportive nitrogen-infused foam insole. Plus, a deep, supportive heel cup also helps keep your foot in place. These are pricey sandals but they are well-made and will last for years of regular use. Just note that before you can get regular use out of them, you need to break them in with limited wear over the course of several days. Once molded to your feet and with the straps adjusted just right, they will serve as your perfect walking partner, mile after mile. Amazon Sizes: 6 to 11 | Materials: Vegan leather, polyurethane| Colors: 22 Pros: Cons: These understated, casual sandals look great when paired with a dress, jeans, colorful shorts or whatever else you you have in wardrobe because they come in nearly two dozen colors. And don't let the casual look fool you: This is purpose-built footwear designed to provide solid foot support and relief from plantar fasciitis pain. The polyurethane footbed is thick, cushioned and molded for proper arch and heel support. The sandals only come in whole sizes from 6 to 11, which might be an issue for some feet, and they run a bit narrow, but if they fit, you'll love the support, and the affordability. If they ever get dirty, simply scrub them with soap and water to bring them back to life. HOKA Sizes: 3 to 14 | Materials: Rubber, sugarcane EVA | Colors: 7 Pros: Cons: As the name implies, your feet will slide right into the ORA Recovery Slide 3 from Hoka, but they won't slip right back out thanks to the broad band encircling the top of your foot and the raised lip behind the heel. A molded footbed made partially from natural sugarcane-derived foam cradles your foot and supports the arch, reducing foot pain, while the more rugged outsole can handle concrete, gravel, roots, rocks and other terrain. The supportive design receives the American Pediatric Medical Association's seal of acceptance, so you can count on it to be a good fit for plantar fasciitis relief. Some people have reported a different fit between the left and right sandal, so be sure to try them on in-person if you need the assurance. Ultimately, when you get a pair that fits just right, you'll love how easily you can slip into comfort. Birkenstock Sizes: 6 to 13 | Materials: Leather, EVA | Colors: 7 Pros: Cons: The Arizona sandal from Birkenstock has been around since 1973, and in that five-plus decade span, not much has changed about the look or design of this slide. And why should something that already works well change anyway? Arizonas have a soft and molded EVA footbed designed to support the foot's arch and allow the toes to spread out comfortably, while the inset heel cup lets a wearer stand or walk with a natural orientation—think barefoot walking in sand or on soft grass. This Birk has two bands of soft suede leather than can be adjusted to create a secure and comfortable fit, while a raised edge around the front of the footbed protects the toes even as most of your foot is exposed to fresh air. Arizonas are more expensive than most of the other sandals covered in this guide, but they bring with them decades of approval from wearers all over the world. KURU Footwear Sizes: 7 to 13 | Materials: Leather, microsuede, rubber | Colors: 4 Pros: Cons: If you suffer from both plantar fasciitis pain and a serious case of wanderlust, the Kuru Tread can help with both. Designed for use on rugged terrain, this tough, capable sandal is surprisingly gentle on your feet. The toughness comes from a thick rubber outsole with deep lugs set into a tread pattern that will grab onto roots, rocks and more, while the soft support is thanks to a a microsuede-lined footbed that properly positions your foot and cradles it in place. Broad adjustable bands near the ankle and over the bridge of the foot ensure a secure fit, while soft padding within those bands reduces friction to help prevent blisters. This is an expensive sandal, and it's on the heavier side, but if you want your feet properly supported while you're far afield, it's a smart buy. At Forbes Vetted, the gear team only recommends equipment and apparel after doing our homework. We talk to trusted experts, dig deep into research, analyze reviews from verified buyers and spend time with products over the course of many months. Your footwear plays a critical role in keeping you comfortable from the ground up. To find supportive, comfortable, durable sandals for plantar fasciitis, we took the following steps: 'Footwear and supportive products play a critical role in managing plantar fasciitis, particularly by reducing load on the fascia and encouraging optimal foot mechanics,' says Dr. Rodgers. Here are three key factors to keep in mind: Start by looking for sandals that promote arch support. This is of critical importance because a well-established arch helps distribute pressure across the foot, reducing strain on the plantar fascia. The sandals should have a raised, cushioned arch that fits your foot well, and it shouldn't feel forced or obtrusive. If you normally wear shoes that don't have an arch, look for sandals with a gentle arch for basic support. 'A deep heel cup will help to absorb shock as well as cradle and support the heel, which will reduce strain on the plantar fascia," says Dr. Sharkey. A deep heel cup isn't going to force the back of your foot into a mold, but it will feel as if the back of the sandal is raised slightly above the base of your heel. This added support keeps your foot in place and helps evenly distribute forces. A thick, sturdy outsole, supportive midsole and cushioned insole are all critical in sandals used to treat plantar fasciitis. 'Sandals [need to] absorb impact and reduce stress on the plantar fascia thanks to deep cushioning, which helps reduce heel impact during walking,' explains Dr. Rodgers. While all of the sandals in this guide feature thick, cushy bases, some are simpler than others. For example, the Oofos Ooriginal Sandal is made purely of closed-cell foam, while the Kuru Tread features an outer layer for grip and internal layers for support. What's right for you comes down to pure comfort and where you intend to wear your sandals. 'Plantar fasciitis is an inflammatory condition that impacts the fibrous tissue band running along the bottom of the foot, from the heel to the toes,' says Bailey. 'It is aggravated when the plantar aponeurosis becomes overly tight.' And simply put, it's painful—it can make it difficult to walk or stand still, and the effects can go well beyond the foot, impacting the ankles, knees and back as you compensate for the pain by changing your gait or stance. 'Several factors can cause [plantar fasciitis],' says Dr. Tulpule, 'but the most common cause is ill-fitting shoes, so shoes that lack support and cushion, such as ballet flats." The condition can also be caused or exacerbated by high-impact activities like running, or because of foot biomechanics, such as flat feet, high arches or a tight Achilles tendon. Prolonged standing is also a risk factor, which is why you should invest in shoes for standing all day if you spend hours on your feet. No, plantar fasciitis is not a permanent condition in all but rare cases. Most people recover completely within months with proper treatment, like stretching, rest and supportive shoes or sandals. While chronic cases or lack of treatment can lead to complications and longer recovery times, successful intervention is possible.
Buzz Feed
28-01-2025
- Health
- Buzz Feed
The 1 Shoe Podiatrists Recommend If You Stand A Lot
We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page. These are great for people with flat feet, heel pain, or lower back issues — and they have a whole fanbase behind them. Most footwear trends come and go, but one style that's garnered a community of lifelong enthusiasts? The ever-practical, stylish, yet quirky clog. The comfort! The ease! The support! But of course, the best person to ask about whether clogs are really worth their salt is a professional — namely, a podiatrist. We spoke to podiatrist Dr. Saylee Tulpule about her professional take on clog fandom. Tulpule is based in Washington, D.C. and Maryland and is active on Instagram as @thesoledoctor. Tulpule explained that folks who spend a lot of time on their feet often enjoy clogs because of their built-in arch support, their frequently added comfy cushioning and the easy-on, easy-off slip-on style. That's why 'clogs are traditionally worn by professionals who stand all day: nurses, teachers, doctors, chefs, etc.,' she wrote. Clogs are also often slip-resistant and waterproof, an added benefit for active professionals, Tulpule added. The beloved shoes can also be beneficial for those with certain medical conditions. In particular, 'Clogs can be comfortable for people who suffer from flat feet, heel pain, tendonitis or even lower back issues due to the degree of arch support and cushion,' Tulpule said. That said, you may want to avoid fashion clogs with high heels over three inches, which can lead to tripping and potentially strain your Achilles tendon, Tulpule noted. In addition, clogs with overly firm wooden soles will not provide the same cushiony support and thus can 'aggravate flat feet,' she added. As long as you stick to a practical style without high heels and wooden soles, clogs are one of the best comfy, supportive all-day shoes you'll find. The best ones to stick to, according to Tulpule? Those from Dansko, Birkenstock and Sanita brands. She noted that the Dansko brand also carries the American Podiatrist Medical Association's Seal of Approval. Based on Tulpule's recommendations, we rounded up some of the bestselling Dansko, Birkenstock, and Sanita clogs for you to check out below. And, if you do fall in love with the clog as I once did, congratulations — you're now part of one of the best footwear fandoms around. 1. Amazon "The brands that I advise my patients to research are Dansko [which has the] American Podiatrist Medical Association's Seal of Approval, Birkenstock and Sanita," Dr. Saylee Tulpule, a podiatrist based in Washington, D.C and Maryland, told us. "For my patients that are professionals, I [recommend] a closed back clog for additional support and minimal risk to 'coming out of the shoe,'" Tulpule added. Based on Tulpule's recommendation, we selected this bestselling slip-on, closed-back Dansko clog. I own and have walked miles upon miles in this clog. Once sufficiently broken in, this thing proved unparalleled to any other shoe I've owned due to its long-lasting comfort and built-in arch support (which I especially appreciate for my wide, flat feet). This classic Dansko style is available in dozens of designs and colors at Amazon, but I love its oiled black and antique brown styles; they provide a put-together vibe that's served me well everywhere from formal work environments to running errands and drinks out. I even wore these clogs out clubbing once, and while admittedly I was the only one there in clogs, I'll bet I was the happiest and certainly the most pain-free. Needless to say, these Danskos have been a true love affair for me. The style also sports a two-inch heel, which gives my 5'2" frame a fun height boost. The shoe, pictured in oiled black is available in women's sizes 4.5–13 and in wide and narrow sizes. Even though I have wide feet, I opted for the regular sizing and was just fine. For the best fit, aim for a pinky-length gap between the back of your foot and the shoe's heel. 2. Amazon This quintessentially ugly-chic clog (a compliment, according to clog lovers!) is as resilient and practical as it looks. It's designed to literally repel dirt, oil and grease, plus is water-resistant. The clog's squishy cork-latex footbed is designed to anatomically match the foot for maximum comfort and support. The shoe is also lined with moisture-wicking fabric to minimize stench. You can even throw this in the washing machine up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Even I, a longstanding Dansko lover, am impressed. This might just be my next pick for myself. The Birkenstock Super-Birki clog is available in up to 10 colors, including neutrals and vibrant brights like yellow, green and pink, in women's sizes 4–12.5 and in men's sizes 6–15.5. 3. Amazon If you prefer an open-back clog, that's just fine, according to Tulpule. "It's really one's preference whether to wear a mule-type clog vs a closed toe," Tulpule wrote. "A backless clog will be easier to slip into and reduce chances of friction at the heel counter." Folks are absolutely obsessed with this open-back Birkenstock style, which you'll find everywhere from college campuses to startup offices and your favorite local walking trail. Birkenstock admits it's the brand's "most sought after clog," no doubt due to the pillowy soft footbed which molds to your foot as you wear it. Plus, the shoe is notoriously lightweight, so you'll feel energized instead of weighed down as you go about your day. The Birkenstock Boston clog has a soft suede leather upper and a luxurious suede leather lining. It's available in mutiple colors, regular/wide and medium/narrow widths, women's sizes 4–12.5 and men's sizes 6–17.5. 4. Birkenstock Completely lined with real shearling, Birkenstock's Tokio clog is like if your favorite slippers turned into actual shoes. The clog's deliciously cozy lining — paired with the brand's notoriously comfy contoured footbed — will make you never want to take these off. Equipped with a suede upper and adjustable front and back straps, the clog comes in three colors, men's sizes 6–13.5 and women's sizes 4–12.5, and regular/wide and medium/narrow options. Amazon Dansko's Ingrid clog balances functional versatility with a classically stylish look. Its chic strap can be worn across the shoe's front (as pictured) for an understated professional vibe, or swung behind the heel for extra support while you're on the go. Plus, as with Dansko 's other footwear, the open-back clog has great anti-stub protection thanks to its reinforced toe box, a comfy padded instep and a shock-absorbing bottom that conveniently helps propel you forward as you walk. (I love the rocker-bottom feature in particular: I find it does help propel me forward when I'm getting tired from walking!) Grab the Ingrid clog in three colors and in women's sizes 4.5–12. 6. Amazon With a thick shearling cuff and a sweater-like lining, Dansko's Magda clog is a great choice for folks looking for the arch support clogs are known for — with some extra warmth and comfort. The cozy clog is made with a bouncy cork midsole and a nonslip rubber outsole that'll stand the test of inclement outside weather. Grab it in two colors and in women's sizes 5.5–12. 8. Amazon These fun Sanita hues let you express your bold personality without saying a word — while delivering all the comfort and arch support that makes clogs so beloved. They're available in up to six colors, including bright red, fuschia and shimmer gold, and in women's sizes 4.5–12. Get them from Amazon for $84.90+. 9. A stylish Sanita clog with a chic outlined strap Amazon This closed-back, patent leather style from Sanita offers a shock-absorbing outsole and a comfy cushioned footbed. It also sports built-in arch support designed to prevent foot and back fatigue, plus a moisture-wicking insole to help cut down on sweat and foot odor. The fixed strap adds some understated personality and style to this foot-loving style. It's available in four colors and in women's sizes 3.5–12. 10. Amazon This Sonja mule from Dansko sports a reinforced toe to protect you from stubbing your feet and a unique rocking-bottom sole that's designed to propel you forward as you walk. The clog helps minimize heel friction due to its backless style, plus is made with a wide heel for added stability and a comfy padded instep. To no one's surprise, I also wore this backless Dansko for many years. Beyond its practical features — of which there are delightfully many — I loved the laidback vibe its open-back style provided, plus the opportunity to show off my collection of fun socks (which are usually obscured by closed heels). I also found that the shoe did propel me forward as I walked — a great feature for when you get tired! It's available with leather and fabric uppers, in up to five colors and in women's sizes 4.5–12.
