Archive for the ‘Shoes’ Category

Among our favorite fashion shoes for women are a brand of stylish shoes that are comfortable – and good for your feet –Earthies.

To view a wonderful selection of women’s shoes, including shoes for well supported walking and running; stylish, supportive shoes for work; and comfortable evening wear that won’t leave your feet feeling “dog tired,” visit our online store today.

Using the catch phrase, “Wellness. Elevated,” Earthies puts you into fashion forward heel and wedge designs that are not only attractive, but are also comfortable, supportive, and good for you. With a range of cute styles, whether for work, evening, or casual wear, Earthies also provide you with graduated arch support, cupped heels, and cradled footbeds, in a perfect blend of support, comfort, and good looks for your feet.

In fact, that insole makes it feel like you’re walking on memory foam!

The Earthies insole offers what other women’s shoes refuse to give you…

• A padded heel area to displace shock
• Reinforced arch support to stabilize your foot
• A full leather sock lining for enhanced breathability
• Multi-density latex cushioning for extra comfort

In spite of the fact that Earthies are “elevated” shoes, you will not feel like you’re walking, or trying to walk, on your toes. The uniquely designed wellness footbed of Earthies heels and wedges cradles your feet and distributes your body weight beautifully. This singular design feature ensures that your feet are in a more natural position than they would be in typical heels, and alleviates pressure on any one part of your foot, such as the heel, or especially, the ball of your foot.

If you believe you are suffering from one of various foot conditions which will not be resolved by a great pair of shoes like Earthies, feel free to make an appointment to see Dr. Hale or Dr. Huppin as soon as possible for effective treatment and relief.

Unfortunately – and amazingly – there is no standardized method or industry standard for defining shoe widths. In fact, the width of shoes actually varies between manufacturers, making it difficult, if not impossible, to buy shoes in a consistent size and width. However, choosing a proper shoe width becomes much easier when you realize that the difference in shoe widths averages about 1/8^th of an inch.

For help in choosing shoes by proper size and width, the Foot & Ankle Center of Washington has created a few pages as aids in choosing shoes based on size, width, and construction: our Shoe Fitting Tip Page; our How to Evaluate Shoes Page; and our How to Evaluate a Shoe Video.

The first thing to realize when considering wider shoes for increased comfort is that the minor difference in shoe widths will not make your feet look abnormal. At an eighth of an inch, a wider shoe can make all the difference to your feet, but the shoes need not be boxy, clunky, or ugly. These days, it’s easy to find wider, more comfortable – and stylish – shoes.

The next point to remember is that simply buying a larger size shoe, rather than a wider shoe, will not make your feet more comfortable. A longer shoe will most likely not be a wider shoe. If the length of the shoe you’re trying is perfect, but the width is not, you should simply by the same size in a wider width.

Third, if the shoes you’re wearing now are uncomfortable due to a variety of foot conditions, such as bunions, hammertoes, or swelling from diabetes, a wider shoe may provide temporary relief. Although, if you are suffering from any of these foot conditions you should contact us today for treatment and relief.

The last point to consider when purchasing shoes is this; shoes which are too narrow may cause discomfort and long-term foot problems. Since the most common width in stores today will be medium width, if there is no width listed, you should assume that you are trying on a pair of medium width shoes. If they are too tight, ask for help and try a wider pair of shoes.

Learn more about comfortable high heel shoes, and see our collection of Earthies Women’s Shoes. We also have a variety of shoe styles and shoe widths available for men and women at the Foot & Ankle Store.

Traveling over long distances can be tough on the feet. Sitting for long periods, whether in a car, bus, or airplane, can cause swelling and poor circulation, resulting in discomfort and foot pain. Especially for those already suffering from plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, bunions, hammertoes, corns, Morton’s neuroma, and swollen feet and toes, long distance travel can be particularly problematic – and painful.

Orthofeet Men’s Shoes

Finding a comfortable shoe for traveling when you are already suffering from these conditions can be problematic at best, while seeming impossible at worst. We have a solution for you, our most recommended brand of men’s shoes, Orthofeet men’s shoes.

The Orthofeet men’s shoes line of products is very stylish and comfortable. In fact, they include all the comfort and protection features necessary to treat sensitive feet: extra depth, soft leather padded with foam, a seamless breathable lining, an ergonomic cushioning sole, orthotic friendly design, and more.

The Orthofeet line is quite stylish and comes in a variety of widths, including XX Wide (or 2E) in some styles, and up to a Men’s size 15. Some models of Orthofeet shoes are also designed with unique, revolutionary closures, including the Tie-Less Lace and Slip-On closure systems. Orthofeet shoes are also available at very competitive prices. Orthofeet shoes come with a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee, offering relief from foot pain. Use this link to see all of your Orthofeet Men’s Shoes choices.

From casual to dress shoes, from sport casuals to athletic and walking shoes, from hiking boots to slippers, sandals, flip flops or therapeutic shoes, the Orthofeet men’s shoes line of products has every style you may be looking for. Stylish yet comfortable, supportive yet affordable, Orthofeet men’s shoes are the perfect choice for travelers, or anyone seeking relief from chronic foot pain.

For more information on travelling shoes for men, feel free to take advantage of our Free Recommended Shoe List, as well. Register here to receive our free List of Recommended Shoes.

Beyond a good pair of shoes, however, relief from chronic foot pain can be found with treatment for your foot condition at The Foot & Ankle Center of Washington. Contact us today for an appointment.

A quality high-top basketball shoe is preferred for players with bad ankles. The shoes should also be replaced regularly to avoid the inevitable breakdown of support and stability offered by even a quality basketball shoe.

According to the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine (AAPSM), the best basketball shoes for bad ankles are the shoes that are replaced regularly. AAPSM suggests replacing shoes once a month for high school athletes, and even more frequently for college and professionals. Further, with 68% of NBA players using high-top basketball shoes for improved ankle support, AAPSM also recommends these shoes over mid-rise or low-rise shoes.

“’Basketball requires a lot more side-to-side motion than other sports, like running,’” said Daniel Nguyen, a physical therapist with Memorial Hermann Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation in Texas. “’That makes ankle support more critical, so many people prefer a high-top shoe.’”

“Anyone who has weak ankles or has previously sprained their ankle should definitely wear a high top, added Nguyen. However, someone who plays basketball occasionally might be fine with a mid-rise or low-top shoe, particularly if that person is looking for a shoe that is more versatile for other sports than a high top” (Excerpted from, “Get the Best Hops for Hoops: Comfort, Stability Important in Basketball Shoes, Experts Say”.)

Due to the unusual stress that is placed upon a basketball shoe, the pounding and increased lateral movement, as opposed to running for example, the shoe will tend to break down more quickly than other types of athletic shoes. The leather upper will stretch, reducing ankle support, and the cushioning will become less effective. As a result, even the best basketball shoes should be replaced more frequently than these other types.

Download our free Recommended Shoe List (which includes basketball shoes) here.

If you are in the Seattle area and have ankle problems, contact us to make an appointment. Be sure to bring your shoes with you for an evaluation of the fit and support.

One of the most common foot complaints is pain in the ball of the foot. Neuromas usually occur in the area of the 3^rd or 4^th toe. Wearing high heels can increase the pain since heels cause increased pressure on the ball of the foot. When there is too much pressure on the ball of the foot, the symptoms of a neuroma can increase.

Wearing a high heel that has a built-in orthotic will transfer pressure off of the ball of the foot and give the foot more protection and comfort. This can help with a number of foot problems, and especially for ball of foot pain and neuromas. We have reviewed many high heels and one of our favorites is the Earthies High Heels. There are dozens of styles to choose from in this brand of fashionable, healthy high heels.

When choosing a high heel to wear with a neuroma, it’s important to have a sole that supports the arches. This helps to prevent motion and pressure in the area of the forefront of the foot. A supportive, high heel cradles the foot with a contoured footbed or rocker sole. It is also helpful to choose a high heel with a wider toe box.

The Earthies High Heels and Boots are dress shoes that can help with pain associated with a variety of foot problems. If you have a neuroma or difficulty wearing high heels, these high heels are worth a try.

Buy a pair of Earthies High Heels and Dress Shoes here.

We like to do product reviews, especially during the holiday season when more people are prone to wearing dress shoes. High heeled shoes are hard on the feet and uncomfortable. They can cause ball of foot pain, heel pain, bunion pain and toe pain.

If you want to wear high heels this season, it’s important to choose healthy ones that keep the foot supported and in alignment. For a high heeled shoe that is attractive, comfortable, healthy try the Earthies Talera High Heel. This fashionable shoe has high reviews for comfort thanks to the support features.

It’s rare to find a high heeled shoe that is actually helpful for ball of foot pain. The Earthies Talera High Heel is unique because it has a rocker platform that transfers pressure off the ball of the foot. The extraordinary built-in arch support cushions the foot, while also allowing even weight distribution. These closed-toed high heels will also keep feet warmer during the cold season.  Read more reviews about the Earthies Talera High Heel here.

For more high heel options for people with ball of foot pain, try a pair of dress shoe orthotics. These are insoles that are designed to fit into a pair of high heeled shoes or boots. Several types are available to reduce pain and even help back and lower leg pain by keeping the body in alignment. Check out the options for dress shoe orthotics.

Order a pair of Earthies Talera High Heels here.

When wearing dress shoes it is common to have heel pain, arch pain, ball of foot pain, and foot fatigue. Overtime, high heels can wear feet down and make it difficult to wear fashionable shoes. The good news is that there are inserts for high heels that make them far more comfortable. These devices provide cushioning, proper alignment, and stability.

We’ve reviewed the best inserts (also known as prefabricated orthotics) for high heels and dress shoes. You can see the results here. There are a few different OTC orthotic choices for any type of high heel shoe. This includes both closed heel and open heel, as well as high heel sandals and dress boots.

The two we recommend most highly are the Women’s Dress Slimfit Insoles (for closed toe high heels and boots), and the McConnel Slimfit Insoles (for slingback heels and backless pumps). Both of these inserts provide superior arch support and will reduce foot discomfort and prevent future problems.

The other option for a high heel insert is to make an appointment with a specialist for a custom high heel insert. A custom orthotic uses technology to fit the exact contour of your foot, allowing the best possible fit. Custom orthotics are extremely comfortable and can be made to fit in most high heels . Learn more about custom orthotics and how they should be made here.

If you have pain while wearing pumps or boots, we highly recommend adding an insert to your shoe. Order the Women’s Dress Slimfit Insoles or the McConnel Slimfit Insoles.

As golfers, we like to watch what the pros do and follow suit. So when professional golfer Fred Couples stepped out on the course at the 2011 Masters wearing the ECCO Golf Street Shoe, we were curious about why he chose this particular shoe. Fred has had chronic back pain for years and needed a comfortable shoe that gave him a good grip and supported his back. We were surprised to this shoe does not have spikes and resembles more of a sneaker than a traditional golf shoe.

Golfers who have back pain need a supportive shoe to play a pain-free game. It turns out the ECCO Golf Street Shoe has stability and comfort features to not only set up for a good golf game, but to also support a bad back. It is designed with a durable and breathable textile lining with a microfiber heel grip.

Order the ECCO Golf Street Shoe here.

If back pain is a problem, we also highly recommend wearing an arch support. While a custom orthotic will have the best fit and support, the Powerstep ProTech Classic Plus Pro is the top of the line OTC choice. It can be inserted in any golf shoe and can help to improve alignment and provide a pain-free golf game.

For more products we’ve hand picked, visit our self-treatment center.

If you live in the Seattle area and want a custom orthotic, request an appointment online.

In our Seattle foot and ankle clinic we treat many runners including those that run in traditional shoes and those that run in minimalist shoes (barefoot runners).  A question that is commonly asked is whether there are fewer injuries from barefoot running compared to traditional running shoes.

The truth is that no one knows.  There is not a shred of research indicating that barefoot running decreases injuries in runners.  On the other hand there is no research indicating that use of traditional shoes decreases injuries either.  That research will come someday, but it is not yet available.

But there have been some good studies on barefoot running and the following is what we do know:

• Barefoot running decreases stride length
• Barefoot running decreases force on the heel and increases force on the forefoot
• Barefoot running decreases load on the knee but increases load on the ankle
• Barefoot running is more metabolically efficient – you use less energy.  Is this good?  It depends. If you are trying to run as far as possible without hitting the wall, then it’s good.  If you are trying to burn more calories in the shortest time then it’s bad.

Our experience is that barefoot and minimalist runners get injuried at the same rate as those that wear regular shoes, but they are trading one group of injuries for another.  Those in traditional running shoes seem to be more likely to develop Runners’ Knee and shin splints.  Those in minimalist shoes are more likely to develop forefoot problems such as Morton’s neuroma and metatarsal stress fractures.   In fact, I have seen more metatarsal stress fractures in the last year than in any previous year in my 20 years of practice – a majority in runners wearing minimalist shoes.

If you are unsure whether you would be better off wearing traditional shoes or minimalist shoes, contact us for an appointment or see a sports podiatrist in your community.    We can analyze your gait, examine your feet and help you determine which is likely to be the best choice for you.

Blisters are a common problem for women who wear high heels and pumps. The primary reasons are that high heels increase the pressure on the ball of the foot, irritating the skin and causing excessive friction; and many pumps tend to squeeze the toes together—again causing friction

To prevent blisters you must first prevent friction.  We have found several good  products that help women prevent and treat blisters. At our Seattle clinic, we work with women every day to make it easier to wear pumps and high heels without getting blisters. The goal with treatment is to determine what is causing the blister and reverse it for good. These treatments include:

Orthotics for high heels. Custom or prefabricated orthotics can help prevent blisters by limiting foot motion that causes the friction that causes blisters. Using some sort of arch support is the most effective way to limit this motion.

There are a few different types of orthotics for high heels, including custom and prefabricated orthotics that fit discreetly on the footbed of the pump. One of the  best OTC insert for high heels with a closed back is the Women’s Dress Slimfit Insoles. This arch support transfers the force off the ball of the foot, reducing the foot pain and the chance of blisters.

The other arch support for pumps that is even thinner is the McConnel Slimfit Insoles. This product is the best OTC orthotic we have found for high heels with an open back (slingback) and dress sandals. It comes with an adhesive bottom that easily fits into pumps, allowing it to “disappear” under the foot.

Patches and blister guards. Another product for blister prevention is the Tender Touch Gel Pads. These thin durable cushions protect blisters and irritated skin. They easily stick without adhesive and can be used repeatedly over a painful area.

If painful rubbing and blistering occurs over a specific area, Blister Prevention Patches can be placed directly on the shoe to prevent friction and rubbing. They protect skin and can be worn for weeks.

Most blister problems can be prevented and eliminated completely. Find more blister treatment tips here.