PowerStep Product Review

If you have flat feet or plantar faciitis, PowerStep Orthotic Arch Support will definitely help. Pain in your heel and arch dramatically decreases with these insoles in your shoes.

When I decided to go back to the gym after a long hiatus, the first thing I needed was a good pair of cross trainers. I started with a nice pair of Reebox's. While they were comfortable at the store and okay at the gym, my feet would be sore for hours after a workout. Then I purchased a pair of bright blue Nike's, which were okay for an hour at the gym. My feet were still taking a beating and coming out as the loser. That was when I realized I would need more support than what the standard insole could offer because I have mild fallen arches.

I picked out the PowerStep Original Full Length Orthotic Arch Supports because they are our most popular insole. They are always selling out and getting rave reviews.

Powerstep Full Length orthotic arch supports feature a prescription like polypropylene arch support encased in a unique double-layered cushioning insole. The insole is made from polyethylene foam and it completely surrounds and encases the plastic arch support. Powerstep orthotic arch supports have a deeper, softer heel cup then most hard plastic orthotics. The heel cup is sculpted from the firm polyethylene foam so it is extremely comfortable yet still adds to the over all stability of the orthotic arch support. The top blue covering on the Powerstep Full Length orthotic arch support is a special patented Sanitize ETC fabric. Its special weave reduces slippage and friction (and therefore heat and perspiration). Sanitiz ETC fabric is treated with an anti-bacterial/anti fungal application so the Powerstep orthotic arch supports stay fresh and odor free even after considerable use. 

My first workout with the PowerStep Original Full Length Orthotic Arch Supports was painful but did not leave my feet feeling sore and tired afterwards. My feet no longer bothered me and I could focus on getting back in shape. It also helped with my balance, which was a nice surprise.

The insoles are hard and supportive, not soft and cushy. My arches were sore from so much support but after a few hours, they felt great. I wear a size 8.5 in women's and the arch hit me perfectly. The orthotic fit in my athletic shoes without any extra space or wiggle-room.

After about half a year, 5-10 hours a week of vigorous training, they were wearing thin. I replaced them with the ProTech Classic Plus because they're a little softer and offer the extra heel poron cushion. But next time I plan on getting the Original, just because I don't really need extra cushion. Either way, they are still incredible.

Below is a comparison chart which can help guide you to your perfect fit.

Let's Get Rolling

Dr. Oz featured foam rollers the other day on his show and it is no surprise, foam rollers are one of the most versatile tools for pain relief or exercising.

A foam roller can be used for self-myofacial release (self massage), by laying on the foam roller and gently moving the roller to release knots or problem areas. Trigger point massage helps relieve pain in many areas, from the back to calf muscle aches. You are in control of how much pressure and how long each tender spot is massaged.

Not only can foam rollers be used after workouts to aid in muscle recovery or decrease inflammation, the rollers can be used during exercise. They can add another dimension to push-ups, crunches and bicycle kicks among others. Foam rolling can improve with flexibility, range of motion and dramatically increase balance.

Depending on your needs, foam rollers come in an array of densities, sizes and lengths. The density of a foam roller can be anywhere from a pool noodle to an extremely solid pole. At Pro Therapy Supplies, we offer sizes ranging from 12" to 36". We even carry half sizes as well as offer a wide range of colors.

What is Compression Therapy?

Compression stockings, socks and tights are intended to apply pressure against the legs and help blood circulate to the heart. They are worn first thing in the morning and taken off right before bed time.

Used in compression therapy, these specialized medical products treat a wide range of leg problems from aching feet/legs to varicose veins. They do not eliminate the problem, but compression stockings do provide temporary relief from the aches and pain associated with venous reflux and vein diseases.

Many people can benefit from compression therapy. From those who are on their feet all day to people who sit all day and especially those with vein diseases. Since compression therapy helps with pumping blood throughout the leg and body, these medical stockings aid in decreasing swelling, tiredness, aching and numb legs.

Compression stockings, socks and tights come in a wide variety of compression, sizes, colors as well as material. At Pro Therapy Supplies, we carry styles from casual knee highs to full maternity stockings.

15-20 mmHg Gradient Compression Indication Guide: 

• Discomfort from spider veins
• Relief from minor leg swelling
• Relief of tired aching legs
• Relief of leg discomfort during pregnancy
• Minor varicose veins
• For wear following sclerotherapy

20-30 mmHg Gradient Compression Indication Guide: 

• Moderate to severe varicose veins
• Moderate swelling
• Varicose veins during pregnancy
• Leg swelling following surgery
• Following sclerotherapy

30-40 mmHg Gradient Compression Indication Guide: 

• Chronic venous insufficiency
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Post-thrombotic syndrome
• Severe varicose veins
• Severe edema
• Venous ulcer
• Lymphedema
• Orthostatic hypotension

*Note: These are examples of reasons to wear different levels compression. Please consult your medical provider for the recommended compression level. It is important to wear the correct compression level, if incorrect the stockings may become uncomfortable.

For a limited time, save 10% on all Jobst Products with code: JOBST10 at checkout!

4 Simple Things to Keep Your Heart Healthy

Happy Valentine's Day! Hopefully you are treating your heart right, not just emotionally but physically as well. As the hardest working muscle in your body, you should be taking care of your heart.

1. Avoid smoking, it can damage the structure and how your heart functions which increases your risk for diseases.

2. Keep stress at bay, stress increases the risk of heart disease as well as heart attacks.

3. Avoid bad foods, they can lead to high cholesterol as well as high blood pressure.

4. Be active, it strengthens your heart and helps with controlling stress, high blood pressure and maintaining a healthy weight.

These are just 4 simple things you can do to keep your heart happy and healthy.

Maintaining Your Resolutions

According to the University of Scranton's study, most people fall off the wagon right around this time of year, mid-February. It takes 21 days for something to become a habit and 6 months for it to become part of your personality.

Everyone starts off with great intentions, but it can become overwhelming and down right difficult. But just because you are having a bad day or two does not mean it has completely ruined your aspirations. The goal is still there, your resolve just needs a little push. Even if you have stopped for a few days or even a few weeks now, it is not too late to start over and try again.

At Pro Therapy Supplies we have fitness equipment if your goal is to lose weight or stay healthy. There are massage tools if your resolution is to keep stress at bay. And all items have free shipping at already low prices, if you have resolved to save money this year.

Benefits of Hot & Cold Therapy

Hot & cold therapy is recognized by doctors, physical therapists and health officials as a great way to treat pain.

Heat therapy provides comforting relief for reoccurring pain, old injuries, reducing soreness, or used in conjunction with other rehabilitation treatments or massage therapy. This warmth improves circulation, increases blood flow, and relaxes sore muscles. Moist heat penetrates deeper than dry heat, providing more relaxation to the joints and muscles.

Cold therapy (also known as cryotherapy) treats acute pain from new injuries, post-workout soreness, or to help stop bleeding from trauma or surgical procedures. This method of cold therapy also aids in reducing swelling and inflammation for many areas of the body.

When used in conjunction with each other, the alternating temperature creates a vascular flush, which is believed to decrease healing time of muscular strains or tendon injuries.

ActiveWrap Hot/Cold Reusable Packs are made of a special non-toxic gel thermal material. The substance is vacuum sealed in a sturdy PE/Nylon covering then inserted in a washable, nylon bag. The gelatinous material stays flexible even when frozen.

ActiveWrap combines hot/cold therapy with compression therapy. The wraps use patented technology to hook and loop wraps securely where you need it most. They come in a multitude of sizes and shapes, from a back wrap to an ankle wrap.

For a limited time, save 10% with code SAVE10AW at Pro Therapy Supplies. Purchase one today!

Save 15% on a MiPole

The MiPole Professional Dance Pole Kit has everything you need to pole dance almost anywhere! As a truly professional pole dancing kit, this pole will easily handle spins, upside down moves, and any other advanced techniques. Each pole has the ability to fully extend from 7' 6" to 9'.

It is also great for beginners, since having a great pole to start your pole dancing adventure is crucial for you to learn and dance successfully! 

FUN! One person easy installation will guarantee you will be dancing your way to a healthier and sexier self in no time. Upgrade play and have fun with the included pasties!

PORTABLE! MiPole is very easy to take down and carry with the included carry bag. You can pole dance almost anywhere. Think you don't have the room in your home or office for a pole? Think again! With the quick set up you can be ready to dance in minutes, and easily store your pole away when you are finished. I am sure you will be able to find some space in your living room to feel sexier and get a great work out!