Buying shoes online sounds easy, but getting the right fit can be surprisingly difficult. Each brand uses different sizing standards, and, even within the same brand, styles can vary based on design and materials. A stiff leather shoe may feel tighter than a flexible mesh one, even if they are labeled the same size. Without trying them on, it is hard to know how they will truly fit your foot shape. Many people also do not realize their feet change over time, making old size assumptions unreliable. Proper measurement of length, width, and arch type is key to finding comfortable footwear. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure, identify problem areas, and recommend shoe types that match your needs. This guidance can prevent pain, blisters, and long-term issues. If you struggle with shoe fit, it is suggested that you consult 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 one of our podiatrists from VIP Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors 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 office located in Pembroke Pines, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot care is a key part of managing diabetes, because high blood sugar can damage nerves and reduce circulation in the feet. This can make it harder to feel injuries and slower for wounds to heal. Regular evaluation by a podiatrist helps detect changes, such as reduced sensation, skin breakdown, or pressure points. A podiatrist can assess blood flow, check for nerve damage, and examine the skin and nails for signs of concern. Treatment for diabetic foot problems includes removing thickened skin in a safe, sterile setting, and managing wounds. Custom orthotics or protective footwear or casting can help to reduce pressure on high-risk areas. Education on proper foot monitoring and risk awareness is also part of ongoing diabetic foot care. Early detection and professional treatment from a podiatrist play an important role in preventing complications and preserving foot health. If you have diabetes-related foot pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for help in managing this condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact one of our podiatrists from VIP Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

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

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by excess uric acid in the blood that forms sharp crystals in the joints. It most often affects the big toe because cooler temperatures in the extremities encourage crystal formation, and the joint experiences frequent pressure. Symptoms include sudden severe pain, redness, swelling, warmth, and tenderness in the affected area. Diagnosis involves a medical evaluation, uric acid blood testing, joint fluid analysis to identify crystals, and imaging such as X-rays or ultrasounds to detect inflammation and joint damage. Risk factors include high purine diets, alcohol intake, obesity, kidney disease, and genetics. A podiatrist can diagnose gout, manage pain, and recommend lifestyle changes and treatment options. If you have symptoms of gout, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and help you to manage this painful condition.

Gout is a painful condition that can be treated. If you are seeking treatment, contact one of our podiatrists from VIP Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Is Gout?

Gout is a form of arthritis that is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. The condition usually affects the joint at the base of the big toe. A gout attack can occur at any random time, such as the middle of the night while you are asleep.

Symptoms

• Intense Joint Pain - Usually around the large joint of your big toe, and it most severe within the first four to twelve hours
• Lingering Discomfort - Joint discomfort may last from a few days to a few weeks
• Inflammation and Redness -Affected joints may become swollen, tender, warm and red
• Limited Range of Motion - May experience a decrease in joint mobility

Risk Factors

• Genetics - If family members have gout, you’re more likely to have it
• Medications - Diuretic medications can raise uric acid levels
• Gender/Age - Gout is more common in men until the age of 60. It is believed that estrogen protects women until that point
• Diet - Eating red meat and shellfish increases your risk
• Alcohol - Having more than two alcoholic drinks per day increases your risk
• Obesity - Obese people are at a higher risk for gout

Prior to visiting your podiatrist to receive treatment for gout, there are a few things you should do beforehand. If you have gout you should write down your symptoms--including when they started and how often you experience them, important medical information you may have, and any questions you may have. Writing down these three things will help your podiatrist in assessing your specific situation so that he or she may provide the best route of treatment for you.

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

Diabetes can place the feet at serious risk due to damage that affects both nerves and blood flow. Nerve damage, called peripheral neuropathy, reduces the ability to feel pain, heat, or injury, so a small cut or blister may go unnoticed. Poor circulation, or reduced blood flow, caused by diabetes can slow healing and increase the chance of infection. These problems may lead to ulcers, or open sores, that can become severe, if not treated early. Skin may also become dry and prone to cracking, creating a pathway for infection. A podiatrist can examine the feet, check sensation, assess circulation, and identify early signs of damage before complications worsen. Imaging, wound care, and pressure-relieving devices may be used to protect the feet and support healing. Regular medical evaluation plays an important role in preventing serious long-term complications. If you have foot problems related to diabetes, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to help manage the effects of this serious condition.

Diabetic Limb Salvage

Diabetic limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have a foot ulcer and diabetes, consult with one of our podiatrists from VIP Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Diabetic Limb Salvage?

Diabetic limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot, that has an infected ulcer, from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Amputation has been found to lead to higher mortality rates. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

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