High heels are a popular footwear choice, but wearing them frequently can place added stress on the feet and ankles. As heel height increases, more body weight shifts toward the front of the foot, increasing pressure on the toes and the ball of the foot. This change in weight distribution may contribute to foot pain and affect the way a person walks. High heels may also place extra strain on the ankles, calves, and lower legs. Some individuals develop problems gradually, while others notice discomfort after only a short period of wear. Because repeated stress can affect the joints and soft tissues of the feet, persistent symptoms should be professionally evaluated. Early podiatry care may help identify developing problems before they interfere with everyday activities.

The effects of high heels vary from person to person. Many people experience aching, burning, or tenderness in the front of the foot after standing or walking. Others develop bunions, hammertoes, or calluses because of increased pressure on the toes. Wearing high heels for extended periods may also contribute to ankle instability and reduced balance. As these changes continue, normal movement can become less comfortable and everyday activities may become more difficult. Ongoing foot pain should not be ignored because untreated problems may worsen. Identifying the source of discomfort early can help protect foot health and support long-term mobility.

A podiatrist specializes in diagnosing and treating foot problems related to footwear and abnormal pressure on the feet. During an examination, the podiatrist evaluates foot structure, walking mechanics, and any symptoms affecting comfort or mobility. Treatment is individualized to reduce pain, improve foot function, and address conditions linked to wearing high heels. Early podiatry care may also help prevent additional stress on the feet and support healthier movement. If you are experiencing foot pain, toe discomfort, or difficulty walking after wearing high heels, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact one of our podiatrists from Brondon Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Effects of High Heels on the Feet

High heels are popular shoes among women because of their many styles and societal appeal.  Despite this, high heels can still cause many health problems if worn too frequently.

Which Parts of My Body Will Be Affected by High Heels?

• Ankle Joints
• Achilles Tendon – May shorten and stiffen with prolonged wear
• Balls of the Feet
• Knees – Heels cause the knees to bend constantly, creating stress on them
• Back – They decrease the spine’s ability to absorb shock, which may lead to back pain.  The vertebrae of the lower back may compress.

What Kinds of Foot Problems Can Develop from Wearing High Heels?

• Corns
• Calluses
• Hammertoe
• Bunions
• Morton’s Neuroma
• Plantar Fasciitis

How Can I Still Wear High Heels and Maintain Foot Health?

If you want to wear high heeled shoes, make sure that you are not wearing them every day, as this will help prevent long term physical problems.  Try wearing thicker heels as opposed to stilettos to distribute weight more evenly across the feet.  Always make sure you are wearing the proper shoes for the right occasion, such as sneakers for exercising.  If you walk to work, try carrying your heels with you and changing into them once you arrive at work.  Adding inserts to your heels can help cushion your feet and absorb shock. Full foot inserts or metatarsal pads are available. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Centerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A toddler’s shoe is designed to protect the foot while allowing natural growth and flexibility. Selecting the right shoes is an important step in supporting early foot development and safe movement. During the early walking stages, the foot is still forming, with soft bones and developing muscles. Because of this, there is no rush to introduce shoes before a child begins walking outdoors. Barefoot movement indoors helps strengthen muscles and improve balance, making it a beneficial part of early development.

Symptoms of poorly fitted toddler shoes can include discomfort, frequent tripping, redness, or visible irritation on the skin. Some children may resist wearing shoes or attempt to remove them, which can signal improper fit. Tight shoes may restrict natural movement, while loose shoes can lead to instability. Soles that do not provide proper traction may increase the risk of falls. These signs highlight the importance of selecting shoes that match both the size and developmental needs of a growing child.

Risk factors for foot issues in toddlers include wearing shoes that are too small, too stiff, or made from non-breathable materials. Shoes with rigid soles can limit movement and affect walking patterns. Selecting lightweight shoes with flexible soles helps support natural motion and reduces strain. Soft upper leathers or breathable fabrics allow the foot to move comfortably while preventing irritation. Soles that help prevent tripping, such as those with a slight grip and flexibility, are ideal for early walkers.

Regular foot checks are essential as children grow quickly. It is recommended that feet be professionally checked every four to six weeks up to three years old, every six to eight weeks from three to four years, and every 10 to 12 weeks after that stage. Proper sizing ensures that shoes continue to support development without causing harm. Choosing the right first shoes can make a lasting impact on comfort and mobility. If your baby has foot pain from wearing the wrong shoes, it is suggested you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and guidance tips.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact one of our podiatrists of Brondon Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Centerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis and gout are two distinct forms of arthritis that frequently affect the feet, yet they differ significantly in origin and presentation. Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is an autoimmune disorder that leads to chronic inflammation in multiple joints, including those in the feet. Gout is caused by the accumulation of uric acid crystals within a joint, often triggered by dietary and metabolic factors. Both conditions fall under the category of inflammatory arthritis, but their underlying causes and long term management strategies vary.

Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis often develop gradually and include persistent joint pain, swelling, and stiffness that is worse in the morning or after periods of rest. It typically affects both sides of the body. Gout symptoms tend to appear suddenly, often at night, with severe pain, redness, and swelling in a single joint, commonly the big toe. The intensity of a gout attack can be debilitating, while rheumatoid arthritis may lead to progressive joint deformity if not managed properly. Genetics play a strong role in rheumatoid arthritis, along with environmental triggers that may activate the immune system. Risk factors also include age and gender, with women more frequently affected. Gout is associated with elevated uric acid levels, often linked to diet, alcohol consumption, obesity, and certain medications. Conditions such as hypertension and kidney disease may also increase the risk of gout. Understanding these risk factors allows patients to take proactive steps in managing their condition.

Management of rheumatoid arthritis typically involves long-term medication to control inflammation and prevent joint damage. Gout treatment includes both medication and lifestyle modifications, such as reducing purine rich foods and maintaining proper hydration. Identifying the correct condition is essential for effective care. If you have symptoms of either type of arthritis affecting your feet, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Brondon Foot and Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Centerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Deciding on ankle fusion surgery is a major step for people who live with severe ankle pain that affects daily activities. This procedure is usually considered when other forms of treatment no longer provide enough relief. Ankle fusion surgery joins two or more bones in the ankle so they heal into one solid structure. By preventing painful movement in the joint, the surgery can reduce discomfort and improve stability. People with advanced arthritis, serious ankle injuries, or long-term joint damage are often candidates for this procedure. A podiatrist can evaluate the condition of the ankle, review symptoms, and determine whether surgery is an appropriate option. Careful testing and imaging studies help identify the extent of joint damage and guide treatment decisions.

One of the main benefits of ankle fusion surgery is long-lasting pain relief. Many patients find it easier to stand, walk, and complete daily tasks after recovery. The procedure can also improve ankle stability and reduce the risk of the joint giving way. However, ankle fusion limits movement because the bones no longer bend at the fused area. Some people notice changes in the way they walk. Others place more stress on nearby joints. A podiatrist can explain how these changes might affect specific activities. Understanding both the advantages and possible drawbacks helps patients make informed decisions about surgery. 

The decision to undergo ankle fusion surgery depends on several factors. These include pain severity, joint damage, and personal activity goals. Age and overall health are also important considerations. A podiatrist will discuss expected results, recovery time, and potential risks before recommending surgery. The goal is to improve quality of life while reducing chronic pain. Every patient is different, so treatment plans should be based on individual needs and medical findings. If you have severe or chronic ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to find out if fusion surgery is right for you.

Ankle pain can be caused by a number of problems and may be potentially serious. If you have ankle pain, consult with one of our podiatrists from Brondon Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Ankle pain is any condition that causes pain in the ankle. Due to the fact that the ankle consists of tendons, muscles, bones, and ligaments, ankle pain can come from a number of different conditions.

Causes

The most common causes of ankle pain include:

• Types of arthritis (rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, and gout)
• Ankle sprains
• Broken ankles
• Achilles tendonitis
• Achilles tendon rupture
• Stress fractures
• Bursitis
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Plantar fasciitis

Symptoms

Symptoms of ankle injury vary based upon the condition. Pain may include general pain and discomfort, swelling, aching, redness, bruising, burning or stabbing sensations, and/or loss of sensation.

Diagnosis

Due to the wide variety of potential causes of ankle pain, podiatrists will utilize a number of different methods to properly diagnose ankle pain. This can include asking for personal and family medical histories and of any recent injuries. Further diagnosis may include sensation tests, a physical examination, and potentially x-rays or other imaging tests.

Treatment

Just as the range of causes varies widely, so do treatments. Some more common treatments are rest, ice packs, keeping pressure off the foot, orthotics and braces, medication for inflammation and pain, and surgery.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Centerville, OH . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.