Finding Shoes to Fit Wide Feet

Finding shoes for wide feet starts with understanding what makes the foot feel cramped inside a narrow design. Some people are born with a wider forefoot, while others notice widening over time as ligaments loosen. Sometimes deformities like bunions or hammertoes change the shape of the toes. Wearing shoes that lack adequate support or have a tight, shallow toe box can lead to rubbing, pressure, and changes in toe position. A podiatrist can evaluate the width of the foot, the height of the arch, and any areas that require extra space to prevent irritation. Shoes offered in wide sizes, with softer materials and a deep, rounded toe box, often reduce pressure on the toes and the outer edges of the foot. Flip-flops rarely provide the structure needed for wide feet and can worsen discomfort. If you have foot or shoe problems related to wide feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and treatment options.

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Brondon Foot and Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

A common concern when it comes to foot health, having properly fitted shoes can help prevent injuries to the foot. Out feet affect our posture and gait, which in turn affects the biomechanics and overall bodily structure. With 33 joints, 26 bones, and over 100 ligaments, the potential for serious injury is much greater than one realizes. Although the feet cease growth in adulthood, they still change shape as they mature. Here are some factors to consider when it comes to investing in proper fitting shoes:

  • Be sure the shoes fit correctly right away
  • Ensure the ball of your foot fits comfortably in the widest portion of the shoes
  • Even though they may look fashionable, improper fitting shoes can either create adverse conditions or exacerbate existing ones you may already have
  • Walk along a carpeted surface to ensure the shoes comfortably fit during normal activity

Keeping in mind how shoes fit the biomechanics of your body, properly-fitting shoes are vitally important. Fortunately, it is not difficult to acquire footwear that fits correctly. Be sure to wear shoes that support the overall structure of your body. Do your feet a favor and invest in several pairs of well-fitted shoes today.

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.

Read more about Getting the Right Shoe Size

Why Aqua Shoes Are Worth Wearing

Aqua shoes are designed to keep your feet safe and comfortable in wet or slippery environments. Their flexible soles grip uneven surfaces, reducing the chance of slipping on rocks, pool decks, or boat ramps. The lightweight, quick-drying materials help prevent blisters and skin irritation while allowing your feet to breathe. Unlike walking barefoot, aqua shoes form a protective barrier against sharp objects, rough sand, or hidden debris beneath the water’s surface. They also limit exposure to bacteria and fungi often found in warm, damp areas like public showers or lakeshores. Because they fit securely without feeling heavy, they make moving through water or transitioning to dry land easier and more comfortable. If you develop foot irritation, cuts, or infections after spending time in or near water, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist for evaluation and appropriate care.

Ankle and foot injuries are common among athletes and in many sports. They can be caused by several problems and may be potentially serious. If you are feeling pain or think you were injured in a sporting event or when exercising, 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.

Common Injuries

The most common injuries that occur in sporting activities include:

  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Achilles Tendon Rupture
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Broken Foot
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Stress Fractures
  • Turf Toe

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending upon the injury and in some cases, there may be no symptoms at all. However, in most cases, some form of symptom is experienced. Pain, aching, burning, bruising, tenderness, tightness or stiffness, sensation loss, difficulty moving, and swelling are the most common symptoms.

Treatment

Just as symptoms vary depending upon the injury, so do treatment options. A common treatment method is known as the RICE method. This method involves rest, applying ice, compression and elevating the afflicted foot or ankle. If the injury appears to be more serious, surgery might be required, such as arthroscopic or reconstructive surgery. Lastly, rehabilitation or therapy might be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area. Any discomfort experienced by an athlete must be evaluated by a licensed, reputable medical professional.  

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

Read more about Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

Reasons for Medial Foot Pain

Pain on the inner side of the foot, known as medial foot pain, can affect the area from the inside of the heel through the arch to the big toe. A common cause of medial foot pain is posterior tibial tendonitis. This is an irritation of the tendon that helps support the arch and allows you to push off when walking. Stress fractures, which are small cracks in bones such as the navicular or first metatarsal, may also cause this type of pain that often worsens with activity. Plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, may also cause inner heel pain. A podiatrist can identify the source of discomfort and provide the proper treatment. If you have pain in the middle of the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat this type of foot pain. 

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot 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.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

  • Bunions
  • Hammertoes
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Bone Spurs
  • Corns
  • Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
  • Ingrown Toenails
  • Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
  • Flat Feet
  • Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
  • And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

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.

Read more about Foot Pain

Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

Facts About Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of the posterior tibial nerve as it travels through the tarsal tunnel, a narrow passageway in the ankle. This tunnel, similar to the carpal tunnel in the wrist, allows tendons, nerves, and blood vessels to reach the foot. When the nerve is compressed, motor function can be affected, leading to weakness of the intrinsic foot muscles and difficulty with normal movement. Symptoms may include burning, tingling, numbness, or sharp pain along the ankle or bottom of the foot. A podiatrist can diagnose the condition, relieve pressure on the nerve, and improve function through custom orthotics, and targeted treatment. If you have any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you promptly consult a podiatrist who can offer effective treatment and relief solutions.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can be very uncomfortable to live with. If you are experiencing tarsal tunnel syndrome, 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.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

Tarsal tunnel syndrome, which can also be called tibial nerve dysfunction, is an uncommon condition of misfiring peripheral nerves in the foot. The tibial nerve is the peripheral nerve in the leg responsible for sensation and movement of the foot and calf muscles. In tarsal tunnel syndrome, the tibial nerve is damaged, causing problems with movement and feeling in the foot of the affected leg.

Common Cause of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

  • Involves pressure or an injury, direct pressure on the tibial nerve for an extended period of time, sometimes caused by other body structures close by or near the knee.
  • Diseases that damage nerves, including diabetes, may cause tarsal tunnel syndrome.
  • At times, tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear without an obvious cause in some cases.

The Effects of Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

  • Different sensations, an afflicted person may experience pain, tingling, burning or other unusual sensations in the foot of the affected leg.
  • The foot muscles, toes and ankle become weaker, and curling your toes or flexing your foot can become difficult.
  • If condition worsens, infections and ulcers may develop on the foot that is experiencing the syndrome.

A physical exam of the leg can help identify the presence of tarsal tunnel syndrome. Medical tests, such as a nerve biopsy, are also used to diagnose the condition. Patients may receive physical therapy and prescriptive medication. In extreme cases, some may require surgery.

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

Read more about Treating Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

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