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There are many children who enjoy participating in activities that include running. It is beneficial for parents to take certain steps that can ensure their child wears running shoes that fit properly. Measuring both feet, purchasing shoes at the end of the day, and lacing each shoe correctly, are all factors that should be implemented when trying on athletic footwear. It is also important that the shoes have adequate room for the toes to move freely in, which may be helpful in preventing unwanted foot conditions. Additionally, the socks that will be worn with the shoes will help in determining a proper fit. If you would like more information about how to make sure your child’s running shoes fit correctly, please consult with a podiatrist.

It is important to find shoes that fit you properly in order to avoid a variety of different foot problems. For more information about treatment, contact Dr. Milton N. Kondiles from Kondiles Chicagoland Footcare. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Proper Shoe Fitting

Shoes have many different functions. They cushion our body weight, protect our feet, and allow us to safely play sports. You should always make sure that the shoes you wear fit you properly in order to avoid injuries and deformities such as: bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and more. It is important to note that although a certain pair of shoes might be a great fit for someone else, that doesn’t mean they will be a great fit for you. This is why you should always try on shoes before buying them to make sure they are worth the investment. Typically, shoes need to be replaced ever six months to one year of regular use.

Tips for Proper Shoe Fitting

• Select a shoe that is shaped like your foot
• Don’t buy shoes that fit too tight, expecting them to stretch to fit
• Make sure there is enough space (3/8” to ½”) for your longest toe at the end of each shoe when you are standing up
• Walk in the shoes to make sure they fit and feel right
• Don’t select shoes by the size marked inside the shoe, but by how the shoe fits your foot

The shoes you buy should always feel as good as they look. Shoes that fit properly will last longer, feel better, and improve your way of life each day.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Arlington Heights, and Chicago, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Research has indicated that when high heels are worn frequently, damage may be done to the feet. The calf muscles may become shorter, which may cause Achilles tendon injuries. Additionally, uncomfortable foot conditions may develop as a result of inadequate room in the front of the shoe for yur toes. These can include bunions, hammertoes, corns, and blisters. Many women balance the desire to wear high heels by alternating with shoes that have a lower heel. Additionally, falling may be prevented when specific foot and ankle stretches are practiced, which can help the overall foot to become stronger. If you would like more information about how the feet are impacted by high heels, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist.

High heels have a history of causing foot and ankle problems. If you have any concerns about your feet or ankles, contact Dr. Milton N. Kondiles from Kondiles Chicagoland Footcare. Our doctor 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 one of our offices located in Arlington Heights, and Chicago, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to greater issues. Give us a call, and get treated!

When healing from a sprained ankle, it’s important that you slowly and carefully build the muscles around the affected area. If you’re recovering from a mild sprain, you should be able to start practicing low impact exercises within a few days of having rested your foot. If you’re somebody who likes to regularly stay active, it’s important that you adapt your exercise routine around your sprained ankle, that way you can prevent injuring it further. The exercises you perform to help heal your ankle should focus on benefiting your range of motion, balance, strength, and flexibility. One simple exercise that can be performed to help your range of motion is referred to as ankle circles. This exercise is done by sitting in a chair with your ankle resting on the opposite knee. Slowly begin to rotate your ankle in a clockwise motion, then counterclockwise. Switch ankles and repeat this motion. Another stretch known as band pushes can be particularly beneficial for strengthening your ankle joints. To perform this stretch, sit flat on the floor with your legs straight out and place a resistance band around the ball of your foot. Begin pushing your foot against the band with your toes pointed slightly forward. For more advice on what stretches can help heal a sprained ankle, please consult with a podiatrist.

Why Stretching Is Important for Your Feet

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with Dr. Milton N. Kondiles from Kondiles Chicagoland Footcare. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first to determine if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous exercise, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising to ice and rest the foot. It is advised that you then see a podiatrist for help.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Arlington Heights, and Chicago, IL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.