Shoes do more than complete an outfit, because they support your feet throughout the day. Wearing shoes that do not fit properly can cause pain and increase the risk of developing foot problems. Poorly fitting footwear may be too short, too narrow, or too loose, placing unnecessary pressure on sensitive areas. Common symptoms include blisters, redness, and soreness while walking. You may also notice numbness or discomfort after standing for long periods. Although these symptoms might seem minor at first, continued pressure can lead to lasting problems. Choosing comfortable, supportive shoes is an important step toward maintaining healthy feet and preventing avoidable injuries.

Proper shoe fit begins with checking the space around your toes. There should be about half an inch, or a thumb’s width, between your longest toe and the tip of the shoe. This allows your toes to move naturally without pressing against the front. The toe box should provide enough width and depth to prevent squeezing. Your heel should fit snugly without slipping excessively as you walk. Choose a heel height that feels stable, preferably around one inch or lower for everyday use. When shopping, try shoes on at the end of the day because feet often swell as the hours pass. Measure both feet while standing and select a size that accommodates the larger foot. Walk around in each pair before buying, making sure the shoes feel comfortable immediately.

Wearing the wrong shoes can contribute to several painful foot conditions. Blisters and corns may develop when repeated friction or pressure irritates the skin. Bunions can become more uncomfortable when narrow footwear presses against the big toe joint. Shoes with insufficient toe space may also aggravate hammertoes and ingrown toenails. High heels can shift body weight toward the forefoot, increasing pressure beneath the toes and contributing to ball-of-foot pain. Wearing poorly-fitted shoes may also worsen existing foot problems, including plantar fasciitis. Risk factors include spending long hours standing, wearing narrow designs, and choosing footwear based on appearance instead of comfort. People with diabetes or reduced foot sensation should take particular care because pressure injuries may go unnoticed.

If foot pain continues despite changing your shoes, a podiatrist helps identify the cause and recommends suitable treatment. The examination may include checking your skin, toe alignment, and areas of tenderness. Depending on the findings, treatment may involve padding, callus care, or custom orthotics to improve pressure distribution. A podiatrist can also recommend footwear suited to your activities and existing foot conditions. Early attention prevents minor irritation from becoming a persistent problem. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief tips and additional guidance on proper shoe fit. 

Finding a properly-fitting shoe is important in reducing injuries and preventing foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Shalonda Davidson, DPM from Instride Carolina Foot Care. Our doctor 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 Statesville, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A heel bone fracture occurs when the calcaneus, the large bone forming the heel, breaks. This injury can make standing and walking extremely difficult because the heel absorbs much of the force placed on the foot during movement. Fractures may range from small cracks to severe breaks involving the surrounding joints. Symptoms often include sharp heel pain that worsens when bearing weight. The heel may also become swollen, bruised, or tender to the touch. 

A heel bone fracture often results from a powerful impact that overwhelms the bone. Falling from a ladder, roof, or staircase creates enough force to damage the heel when someone lands on their feet. Motor vehicle accidents and other high-impact injuries are additional causes. Sports-related injuries may occur during activities involving hard landings or collisions, particularly when substantial force travels through the heel. People participating in high-impact sports or working at heights may face greater risks, especially when safety precautions are overlooked.

Recognizing a heel fracture early is important because untreated injuries lead to lasting pain and difficulty walking. Along with swelling and bruising, symptoms include stiffness, difficulty moving the foot, and pain when pressure is applied to the heel. If you suspect a heel fracture, avoid putting weight on the injured foot and seek prompt medical attention. A podiatrist will examine the foot and may order X-rays or a CT scan to determine the fracture location and severity.

Treatment depends on the type of fracture and whether the bone has shifted out of position. Stable fractures may heal with immobilization in a cast or boot, elevation, and strict limits on weight-bearing. More serious fractures may require surgery to restore bone alignment and stabilize the heel with plates or screws. Recovery may take several months, depending on injury severity. If you have fractured your heel bone, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Shalonda Davidson, DPM from Instride Carolina Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

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

Bunions are a foot problem that can change the shape of the big toe joint. A bunion forms when the big toe moves toward the other toes while the joint at its base becomes more prominent. This can create a bump along the inside of the foot. Bunions may develop slowly, and symptoms can seem minor. Over time, the area may become painful, swollen, or irritated by shoes.

Several factors can contribute to bunion development. Genetics can play an important role because inherited foot structure may make someone more likely to develop a bunion. Wearing high heels can increase pressure on the front of the foot and push the toes into a narrow space. Arthritis can contribute to changes that encourage bunion formation. Causes include abnormal foot mechanics and repeated stress. Bunions are not caused by one factor alone.

Common symptoms include pain around the big toe, redness, and tenderness. People may develop thickened skin or a callus where the foot rubs against footwear. The big toe may lean toward the second toe, making shoes difficult to wear. Risk factors include arthritis and footwear that squeezes the toes. Activities that place repeated pressure on the forefoot may also make symptoms noticeable.

A podiatrist can examine the foot, evaluate alignment, and determine whether arthritis or another condition is contributing to symptoms. Treatment may begin with wider shoes, protective padding, or other ways to reduce pressure. Custom orthotics may help improve foot mechanics when appropriate. If pain continues, a podiatrist may discuss treatment options and determine whether surgery is needed to correct alignment. If you have developed a bunion, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and management solutions. 

If you are suffering from bunion pain, contact Shalonda Davidson, DPM of Instride Carolina Foot Care. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

Bunions are painful bony bumps that usually develop on the inside of the foot at the joint of the big toe. As the deformity increases over time, it may become painful to walk and wear shoes. Women are more likely to exacerbate existing bunions since they often wear tight, narrow shoes that shift their toes together. Bunion pain can be relieved by wearing wider shoes with enough room for the toes.

Causes

• Genetics – some people inherit feet that are more prone to bunion development
• Inflammatory Conditions - rheumatoid arthritis and polio may cause bunion development

Symptoms

• Redness and inflammation
• Pain and tenderness
• Callus or corns on the bump
• Restricted motion in the big toe

In order to diagnose your bunion, your podiatrist may ask about your medical history, symptoms, and general health. Your doctor might also order an x-ray to take a closer look at your feet. Nonsurgical treatment options include orthotics, padding, icing, changes in footwear, and medication. If nonsurgical treatments don’t alleviate your bunion pain, surgery may be necessary.

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

Falls can lead to painful injuries and a loss of confidence, especially for older adults. Several health and environmental factors can increase the risk of falling. Arthritis, poor balance, and vision loss can make safe movement more difficult. Certain medications can also affect steadiness. Inside the home, slippery floors, poor lighting, and cluttered walkways can create hazards. Footwear also matters. Shoes that fit poorly or lack proper support can make walking less stable. Understanding these risks is an important part of preventing falls and protecting long-term mobility.

The feet provide the foundation for balance and movement, so foot problems can affect stability. Pain, weakness, or changes in foot structure can alter the way a person walks. Properly fitting shoes with non-skid soles can provide better traction. High heels and loose slippers can increase instability. Home safety is also important. Clear pathways, secure rugs, and good lighting can reduce tripping hazards. Handrails on stairs and grab bars in bathrooms can provide added support. Fall prevention works best when personal risks and environmental hazards are considered together.

A podiatrist can evaluate the feet and ankles for problems that could affect balance or walking. An examination can assess foot structure, joint movement, and areas of pain. A podiatrist can also evaluate shoe fit and recommend footwear that provides better support and stability. Custom orthotics can help improve foot alignment or redistribute pressure when appropriate. Treatment for painful foot conditions can also make walking more comfortable and secure. For patients with balance concerns, a podiatrist can identify foot-related factors that could increase fall risk and develop a plan to address them. If you have symptoms of increased fall risk, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment.

Preventing falls among the elderly is very important. If you are older and have fallen or fear that you are prone to falling, consult with Shalonda Davidson, DPM from Instride Carolina Foot Care. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality advice and care.

Every 11 seconds, an elderly American is being treated in an emergency room for a fall related injury. Falls are the leading cause of head and hip injuries for those 65 and older. Due to decreases in strength, balance, senses, and lack of awareness, elderly persons are very susceptible to falling. Thankfully, there are a number of things older persons can do to prevent falls.

How to Prevent Falls

Some effective methods that older persons can do to prevent falls include:

• Enrolling in strength and balance exercise program to increase balance and strength
• Periodically having your sight and hearing checked
• Discuss any medications you have with a doctor to see if it increases the risk of falling
• Clearing the house of falling hazards and installing devices like grab bars and railings
• Utilizing a walker or cane
• Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning
• Talking to family members about falling and increasing awareness

Falling can be a traumatic and embarrassing experience for elderly persons; this can make them less willing to leave the house, and less willing to talk to someone about their fears of falling. Doing such things, however, will increase the likelihood of tripping or losing one’s balance. Knowing the causes of falling and how to prevent them is the best way to mitigate the risk of serious injury.  

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