Finding shoes for a child involves more than choosing a favorite color or a familiar size. Growing feet need room to move without sliding inside the shoe. A poor fit places pressure on the toes and creates friction against the skin. Children do not always explain that their shoes feel tight, so discomfort sometimes appears as reluctance to walk or participate in play. Shoes that previously fit well also become too small as feet grow quickly. A podiatrist evaluates foot development and identifies whether such shoe pressure contributes to pain. This assessment helps parents understand which features suit their child's feet and daily activities.

Accurate sizing starts with measuring both feet while the child stands, since one foot is sometimes larger. Shoes should accommodate the larger foot in both length and width. About half an inch of space beyond the longest toe provides room for movement and growth. The front of the shoe should allow the toes to lie straight and spread comfortably. A snug heel helps prevent slipping without squeezing the back of the foot. Buying an oversized pair to delay the next purchase creates a different problem, because excess movement reduces stability. A podiatrist checks these details and explains how shoe shape affects fit.

Materials and construction also influence comfort. Breathable uppers, like leather or mesh, allow moisture to escape and help keep feet comfortable. Lightweight shoes reduce unnecessary bulk, while a flexible forefoot allows bending near the ball of the foot. Textured soles provide traction on smooth surfaces. Adjustable laces or straps help secure the shoe around the foot. Flat soles generally suit everyday activities, and athletic shoes should match the demands of the sport. Shoes should feel comfortable from the start rather than require a painful break-in period. A child's preferred design still matters, provided the shoe fits properly and supports comfortable movement.

Persistent redness or recurring blisters suggest that shoes need closer attention. Limping also warrants an examination, especially when a child avoids putting more weight on one foot. A podiatrist examines the skin, checks toe position, and observes the child's walking pattern. The evaluation also considers whether an underlying foot problem is contributing to discomfort. Treatment includes addressing the diagnosed cause and recommending shoes that accommodate the child's foot shape. Some children benefit from prescribed shoe inserts when a specific problem requires additional support. If your child has pain related to footwear, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

The health of a child’s feet is vital to their overall well-being. If you have any questions regarding foot health, contact Michele Kraft, DPM of Toes on the Go. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Tips for Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

• Make sure their shoes fit properly
• Look for any signs of in-toeing or out-toeing
• Check to see if they have Clubfoot (condition that affects your child’s foot and ankle, twisting the heel and toes inward) which is one of the most common nonmajor birth defects.
• Lightly cover your baby’s feet (Tight covers may keep your baby from moving their feet freely, and could prevent normal development)
• Allow your toddler to go shoeless (Shoes can be restricting for a young child’s foot)
• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails
• Keep your child’s foot clean and dry
• Cover cuts and scrapes. Wash any scratches with soap and water and cover them with a bandage until they’ve healed.

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

Pronation is the natural inward rolling movement of your foot as you walk or run. As your heel touches the ground, your foot rolls slightly inward to adapt to the surface beneath you. This motion supports comfortable movement and helps your body handle repeated pressure. However, when your foot rolls too far inward or does not roll inward enough, your walking pattern may be affected. Understanding foot pronation can help you recognize changes that may contribute to discomfort or recurring injuries.

There are three common pronation patterns. Neutral pronation occurs when the foot rolls inward a moderate amount, allowing your weight to move forward smoothly. Overpronation happens when the foot rolls inward excessively, which may place extra stress on the arch and surrounding tissues. Underpronation, also called supination, occurs when the foot rolls inward too little, leaving more pressure along the outer edge.

Symptoms of problematic pronation include arch pain, heel discomfort, or recurring ankle strain. Overpronation may contribute to stress on the plantar fascia, a band of tissue in the sole of the foot. Underpronation can increase impact along the outside of the foot. Risk factors include inherited foot structure, previous injuries, and footwear that does not provide suitable support. High arches may be associated with underpronation, while flattened arches can occur with overpronation. 

A podiatrist can examine your foot structure, observe your walking pattern, and assess joint movement to understand your pronation pattern. Treatment depends on the symptoms and activity level. Recommendations may include wearing supportive shoes, using custom orthotics, or performing specific exercises to improve foot control. Adjusting training habits can also help reduce repeated stress during exercise. If pain continues, further testing may be needed to identify another cause. Early attention helps prevent minor discomfort from becoming a persistent problem. If you have foot pain or suspect you have pronation issues, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Michele Kraft, DPM from Toes on the Go. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Biomechanics in Podiatry

Podiatric biomechanics is a particular sector of specialty podiatry with licensed practitioners who are trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and lower leg. Biomechanics deals with the forces that act against the body, causing an interference with the biological structures. It focuses on the movement of the ankle, the foot and the forces that interact with them.

A History of Biomechanics

• Biomechanics dates back to the BC era in Egypt where evidence of professional foot care has been recorded.
• In 1974, biomechanics gained a higher profile from the studies of Merton Root, who claimed that by changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and the foot, corrections or conditions could be implemented to gain strength and coordination in the area.

Modern technological improvements are based on past theories and therapeutic processes that provide a better understanding of podiatric concepts for biomechanics. Computers can provide accurate information about the forces and patterns of the feet and lower legs.

Understanding biomechanics of the feet can help improve and eliminate pain, stopping further stress to the foot.

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

As people age, their feet undergo changes that can affect comfort, balance, and mobility. The skin may become harder and drier as collagen decreases. Changes can also occur in the muscles, joints, and soft tissues of the feet. The size and shape of the foot may change, which can affect how shoes fit. Foot pain is common among older adults and may make walking more difficult. Conditions such as diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, and nerve damage can create additional foot concerns. Arthritis may also contribute to pain or changes in foot structure, making regular elderly foot care important.

Foot problems in older adults are associated with reduced mobility and a greater risk of falls. Common concerns include thickened toenails, calluses, and corns. Dry skin, ulcers, and foot deformities may also be discovered during an examination. Some older adults have difficulty managing foot care because they cannot easily reach their feet. Footwear is important because feet can become broader with age. Shoes that do not fit properly are associated with foot pain and deformities. A professional foot examination can identify problems and can also evaluate circulation and sensation.

A podiatrist can provide foot care for older adults by examining the skin, nails, and structure of the feet. The evaluation may include checking circulation, sensation, and tenderness. A podiatrist can identify problems such as nail disorders or painful calluses and determine appropriate treatment. Foot ulcers and signs of infection require prompt professional attention. Podiatric care may also include recommendations for appropriate footwear or orthotics. Regular evaluation can help address foot problems that interfere with walking and support continued mobility as a person ages. If foot pain, skin changes, or difficulty walking is affecting daily life, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an evaluation and appropriate treatment options.

Proper foot care is something many older adults forget to consider. If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles, contact Michele Kraft, DPM from Toes on the Go. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

The Elderly and Their Feet

As we age we start to notice many changes in our body, but the elder population may not notice them right away. Medical conditions may prevent the elderly to take notice of their foot health right away. Poor vision is a lead contributor to not taking action for the elderly.

Common Conditions 

• Neuropathy – can reduce feeling in the feet and can hide many life-threatening medical conditions.
• Reduced flexibility – prevents the ability of proper toenail trimming, and foot cleaning. If left untreated, it may lead to further medical issues.
• Foot sores – amongst the older population can be serious before they are discovered. Some of the problematic conditions they may face are:
• Gouging toenails affecting nearby toe
• Shoes that don’t fit properly
• Pressure sores
• Loss of circulation in legs & feet
• Edema & swelling of feet and ankles

Susceptible Infections

Diabetes and poor circulation can cause general loss of sensitivity over the years, turning a simple cut into a serious issue.

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

Diabetic limb salvage is an approach used to protect a foot or limb when diabetes has caused a wound, infection, or tissue damage. The goal is to save as much tissue as possible and prevent loss of limb when appropriate. Diabetes can reduce sensation and slow healing, so small problems may become severe before they are noticed. Warning signs can include an open sore, redness, or increasing pain.

Several factors can increase the need for diabetic limb salvage. High blood sugar can damage nerves and blood vessels. Reduced sensation can make it difficult to feel an injury. Poor circulation may limit oxygen and nutrients needed for healing. Infection can also spread into deeper tissues or bone. A history of foot ulcers, previous limb loss, kidney disease, or smoking may increase risk. Prompt evaluation is important when a wound does not heal normally.

Diabetic limb salvage may involve several steps based on the person’s condition. A podiatrist may examine the wound, check circulation, and order imaging tests. Treatment may include wound cleaning, removal of damaged tissue, and protective dressings. Some patients may need vascular care or surgery to improve blood flow or remove infected tissue while preserving healthy structures. This approach can be life-changing because saving a limb may support mobility, independence, and activities.

Healing requires careful follow-up and foot protection. A podiatrist may monitor the wound regularly and adjust treatment based on improvement. Patients may also receive guidance about blood sugar control, footwear, and daily foot checks. Early care can make an important difference when diabetes threatens the health of a foot or limb. If you have severe foot complications from diabetes, it is suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can discuss the pros and cons of diabetic limb salvage with you. 

Limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have diabetes, cancer, or any other condition that could lead to foot amputation if left unchecked, consult with Michele Kraft, DPM from Toes on the Go. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Limb Salvage?

Limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. 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.

However, there are other causes as well, such as cancer and traumatic injury. Links between higher mortality rates and amputation have been found. 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 Carmel, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.