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Prevention

Shoe Anatomy

The toe box is the part of the shoe where your toes go. The shape of the toe box influences the amount of space for the toes. When choosing a shoe, you want to look for shoe with a larger toe box. A tight toe box or one that cramps your toes in any way can cause toe or foot problems and pain. The vamp is the upper, middle part of the shoe. The shoe laces are usually located in this area. Velcro may be used in some cases in the place of laces. The sole is actually made up of two parts: an insole and an outsole. The insole is inside the shoe and removable. The outsole is the bottom of the shoe or the part which touches the ground. Shoes with softer soles have better shock absorption. This also provides the stability of the shoe. The counter is the part of the shoe which grips and controls the heel. Please call or visit if you need help choosing a shoe. 

Children’s Shoes

Children’s feet should be measured each time you shop for shoes as children’s feet grow rapidly. You should purchase shoes based on the child’s largest foot. It is not uncommon for one foot to be slightly larger than the other. Size should be taken while standing. There should be approximately a thumb width of space between the toes and the end of the shoe. Examine the child’s foot regularly for the first few days after wearing the shoe looking for irritation and blisters. The back part of the shoe at the heel should be stiff. The sole of the shoe should bend at the toes rather than in the middle. The shoe should have a firm fit so it does not slip. Please call or visit if you need help selecting a shoe for your child.

Diabetes

There is some basic advice to preventing problems in a diabetic foot. Keeping the foot warm. Avoiding extreme cold, or heat can prevent frost bite or burns as injuries may be non-painful. Soaking the foot is generally not recommended. Do not use sharp instruments on the foot. Do not trim the nails too short. Contact our office if you have difficulty.  Wear socks and shoes at all times. Buy shoes which have room for your toes so they do not chafe. Dry between your toes well. Be evaluated for diabetic shoes and inserts. 

Work Shoes

Comfort and safety is important when choosing shoes for work. Shoes for work should be supportive in the arch. Have shock absorption in the sole and insole. Have room for the toes. And have a snug fit to prevent chafing. Safety in some occupations may require specialty shoes and features. This may be a steel toe, but also may require a metatarsal guard or steel shank to prevent crushing or puncture. Please call or visit if you have questions or need help deciding what type of shoe is right for you.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy is often a very important tool in recovery or treatment of a wide variety of foot and ankle conditions. In some cases, it is required to help reduce pain, swelling, or inflammation. In other cases, it is useful to help regain strength or range of motion in joints.  Generally, a prescription with recommendations is given. Then you will make an appointment with your therapist for an initial evaluation and they will make recommendations for the type, frequency and duration of physical therapy.