By focusing on three basic characteristics, one can find athletic shoes that can help to avoid back and neck issues during summer sports activities.
The beautiful summer weather signals an increase in physical activity for many people who have hidden indoors throughout the rainy winter months. With great exuberance, many forget that selecting the proper footwear can make the difference in a fun and rewarding season of summer athletics. Belltown Spine and Wellness, Seattle chiropractor and rehabilitation specialists, recommend taking some time in selecting the appropriate footwear for the specific activity you are engaging in.
The importance of utilizing the proper footwear is a key component to keeping safe while enjoying athletic activities. With experience in a wide variety of back pain Seattle issues, Belltown has taken no small notice that many problems start from the ground up. By paying attention to these three basic characteristics of all footwear, selecting the appropriate shoes should be a breeze. Remember not to focus on cost, but on the specific qualities your sport requires from your footwear.
Cushion for Pushin’
Many back pain problems start from some kind of compression of the vertebrae. Without the proper amount of cushion in the heel, the repetitive pounding that results from walking or running can have a ruinous effect on back health over time. Take the time to evaluate how much cushioning your particular style requires by paying close attention to soreness that you experience. 
Some believe that too much cushion can promote improper technique, so a middle ground must be sought.
Be Supportive
The proper amount of arch support and lateral stability in footwear is very specific to the activity. Tennis and basketball are very demanding when it comes to side to side motion. Therefore, a more stable upper, supported by a flatter sole is important. Those same shoes would be terrible to run any distance in since they will be heavy, while lacking high enough arch support. Basically, it is a give and take between lateral stability and lightweight flexibility. Get to know your game.
Stay on Your Feet
Perhaps, the most important factor for staying away from season ending back pain is determining how much traction you require from your footwear. Falling unexpectedly causes many injuries, but can be greatly reduced by understanding how the surface you are playing on reacts to the body mechanics involved. Soccer and softball cleats can stop inadvertent sliding while trying to generate the torque required to propel a ball. Grass, dirt and turf all have different grip, so shoes should be selected accordingly. Soft spike golf shoes can be a little stiffer to walk in, especially if you insist on carrying clubs on you back, but can help to avoid slipping while generating power, especially on sand or other uneven surfaces.
Source: www.prweb.com; Scott Mindel;May 30, 2012.
