Wearing shoes that fit correctly may help prevent unwanted foot conditions from developing. Bunions, ingrown toenails, and hammertoe may all occur from wearing shoes that do not fit properly. Choosing the correct shoe size begins with measuring the feet. This can be done by using a Brannock device which is found in the majority of shoe stores. Conversely, some people prefer to measure their feet at home. To measure your feet at home, stand barefoot on a piece of paper and trace the width and length of the feet. A conversion table is used to determine what the size is. It is beneficial to purchase shoes at the end of the day when the feet are at their largest, in addition to trying on the shoes and walking around in the store. If you are interested in learning more about how to buy shoes that fit correctly, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist who can provide you with helpful information.

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 one of our podiatrists from Prince William Foot & Ankle Center, PC. Our practitioners 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 contact our offices located in Gainesville and Dulles, VA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Babies do not need shoes until they begin walking outside, as barefoot play helps strengthen muscles and improve balance. When it is time for their first pair, choose shoes with a wide toe box to allow natural movement, a flexible sole with grip for stability, and adjustability to encourage independence. A semi flexible heel cup provides gentle support, while a slight toe raise helps with forward motion. A podiatrist can guide parents in selecting the best shoes for healthy foot development and check for any early concerns. If your baby is ready for their first shoes, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist to ensure comfort, protection, and healthy growth for tiny feet.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact one of our podiatrists of Prince William Foot & Ankle Center, PC. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

An ankle fracture occurs when one or more of the bones that form the ankle joint are broken, and the severity can vary from a minor crack to multiple complex breaks. Common types of ankle fractures are lateral malleolus fractures, which affect the outer ankle bone, medial malleolus fractures, which involve the inner bone, and bimalleolar fractures, where both sides are broken. Symptoms include sudden pain, swelling, bruising, difficulty bearing weight, and in severe cases, a visibly deformed joint. A fracture can result from twisting an ankle during physical activity, tripping and falling on a ladder or stairs, or trauma from a car accident. A podiatrist can confirm the type of fracture with imaging and determine whether immobilization, realigning the bones, or surgery is required. In some cases, plates or screws may be needed to hold the bones in place during healing. Recovery can take a few months, and exercises may be advised to restore movement. If you believe you have a broken ankle, it is suggested that you make an emergency appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

Broken ankles need immediate treatment. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from Prince William Foot & Ankle Center, PC. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet. 

Broken Ankles
A broken ankle is experienced when a person fractures their tibia or fibula in the lower leg and ankle area. Both of these bones are attached at the bottom of the leg and combine to form what we know to be our ankle.

When a physician is referring to a break of the ankle, he or she is usually referring to a break in the area where the tibia and fibula are joined to create our ankle joint. Ankles are more prone to fractures because the ankle is an area that suffers a lot of pressure and stress. There are some obvious signs when a person experiences a fractured ankle, and the following symptoms may be present.

Symptoms of a Fractured Ankle

• Excessive pain when the area is touched or when any pressure is placed on the ankle
• Swelling around the area
• Bruising of the area
• Area appears to be deformed

If you suspect an ankle fracture, it is recommended to seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you have your podiatrist diagnose the fracture, the quicker you’ll be on the way towards recovery.

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

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that often causes significant problems in the feet and ankles. The disease targets the lining of the joints, leading to chronic inflammation that can result in swelling, pain, and stiffness. In the feet, rheumatoid arthritis frequently affects the smaller joints, such as those around the toes, making walking and standing uncomfortable. Over time, persistent inflammation can weaken supportive tissues, causing deformities like bunions, hammertoes, or collapsed arches. These changes may alter the way weight is distributed across the feet, leading to additional stress on bones and joints. Morning stiffness, lasting more than an hour, is a common complaint but may gradually improve with movement. Left untreated, rheumatoid arthritis can lead to progressive joint damage, instability, and in severe cases, loss of mobility. A podiatrist can help identify early signs, recommend proper foot support, and discuss treatment options to protect joint function. If you are experiencing symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in your feet and ankles, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam, diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Prince William Foot & Ankle Center, PC. Our practitioners will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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