Wearing the right shoes can play a huge role in the health of your feet. When shopping for new shoes, there are several things that you can do to ensure that you buy the best shoes for your feet. It is recommended that you shop for shoes in person rather than online, so that you can try on shoes, making sure that they fit well and leave room for the toes to move freely in. In a brick and mortar store, you will also be able to ask a salesperson to measure your feet to find out your exact shoe size. Many people wear the wrong size shoes because they are unaware that their feet have changed with age. It is also suggested that you try on shoes in the afternoon when the feet are at their largest. When you find a pair of shoes that are comfortable and fit properly, you may want to feel the inside of the shoe for tags, seams, or other materials that could potentially irritate your foot. You may also want to inspect the soles to make sure that they are thick enough to cushion and protect your feet. For more tips on buying the right shoes for you, consult with a podiatrist today.

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 the podiatrists from Issaquah Foot & Ankle Specialists. 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 one of our offices located in Issaquah, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Itchy feet during pregnancy, also known as pruritus, is a common issue that can range from mild irritation to intense discomfort. Shifting hormones can increase skin sensitivity, while nerve changes and skin stretching may heighten the urge to scratch. Some women experience itchy feet due to underlying skin conditions, such as psoriasis. A more serious cause is cholestasis of pregnancy, a liver-related condition that can lead to significant itching and requires prompt medical attention. A podiatrist can evaluate your symptoms, provide soothing treatments, recommend safe skin care options, and identify signs that may need further medical testing. If you have developed itchy feet during your pregnancy, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for expert guidance and effective relief tips.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with the podiatrists from Issaquah Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

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

Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments that support the ankle joint stretch or tear. This injury is often caused by sudden twists, falls, uneven surfaces, or sports activities that put stress on the joint. The ankle may look swollen, bruised, or slightly deformed, and in severe cases it may appear unstable or misaligned. Many individuals feel sharp pain at the time of injury, followed by tenderness, stiffness, and difficulty bearing weight or walking normally. Up to 70 percent of ankle sprains affect the lateral ligaments on the outside of the ankle, and repeated sprains can lead to chronic instability if not treated properly. A podiatrist can start by evaluating the ankle, checking the range of motion, and using imaging if needed to rule out fractures. Treatment may include elevation, bracing, targeted exercises, and guidance on safe return to activity. Prompt professional care helps reduce recovery time and prevent long-term complications. If you experience persistent ankle pain or swelling after an injury, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact the podiatrists from Issaquah Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

How Does an Ankle Sprain Occur?

Ankle sprains take place when the ligaments in your ankle are torn or stretched beyond their limits. There are multiple ways that the ankle can become injured, including twisting or rolling over onto your ankle, putting undue stress on it, or causing trauma to the ankle itself.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Mild to moderate bruising
• Limited mobility
• Swelling
• Discoloration of the skin (depending on severity)

Preventing a Sprain

• Wearing appropriate shoes for the occasion
• Stretching before exercises and sports
• Knowing your limits

Treatment of a Sprain

Treatment of a sprain depends on the severity.  Many times, people are told to rest and remain off their feet completely, while others are given an air cast. If the sprain is very severe, surgery may be required.

If you have suffered an ankle sprain previously, you may want to consider additional support such as a brace and regular exercises to strengthen the ankle.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Issaquah, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Diabetic foot pain often arises from nerve damage and poor circulation, leading to conditions like neuropathy, ulcers, and calluses. Orthotics can help by redistributing pressure, reducing friction, and providing cushioning to sensitive areas. Accommodative orthotics are softer and meant to provide additional cushioning and support. They can be used to treat diabetic foot ulcers, painful calluses on the bottom of the foot, and other uncomfortable conditions. By stabilizing the foot and improving alignment, orthotics can also enhance balance and walking efficiency. This support helps prevent further complications and promotes better overall foot health. If you are experiencing diabetic foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss how custom orthotics can benefit you.

Custom orthotics are specialized shoe inserts created to support and align the feet according to each person’s unique structure and walking pattern. They are an effective way to relieve foot discomfort caused by conditions such as flat feet, high arches, plantar fasciitis, bunions, and heel pain. When the natural alignment of the foot is off balance, it can lead to pressure points, strain, and pain that affect how a person stands, walks, and moves. Orthotics work by redistributing weight evenly and supporting the arch to reduce stress on the muscles, tendons, and joints of the feet and lower legs.

Foot discomfort can develop for many reasons, including wearing improper footwear, long hours of standing, repetitive motion, or underlying structural problems. Over time, this discomfort can extend beyond the feet, contributing to knee, hip, or lower back pain. Custom orthotics help correct these issues by improving alignment and promoting more efficient movement. They are made using precise measurements and imaging to ensure the best fit for each patient, providing targeted support and cushioning where it is needed most.

Unlike generic insoles, custom orthotics are durable, medically designed, and tailored to your specific needs. Whether you are managing chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or simply seeking better comfort and stability, orthotics can make a noticeable difference in how your feet feel throughout the day.

If you are experiencing persistent foot discomfort or fatigue, it may be time to have your feet evaluated by a podiatrist. Call our office today for more information or to schedule an appointment.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Issaquah, WA . 

Arthritis in the feet can make each step feel heavier and more painful than the last. It often begins with stiffness in the morning or after sitting, followed by aching or swelling surrounding the joints of the toes, midfoot, or ankle. The pain may feel sharp during movement or dull and throbbing by the end of the day. As the condition progresses, joints can lose flexibility, making it harder to walk, climb stairs, or fit into regular shoes. Some people notice warmth, redness, or bony bumps forming around the affected areas. Because arthritis can worsen over time, early diagnosis is important. A podiatrist can assess joint health, recommend supportive footwear, custom orthotics, or anti-inflammatory treatments, and suggest gentle exercises to maintain mobility. If you have joint pain in your feet or ankles, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for relief options.

Arthritis can be a difficult condition to live with. If you are seeking treatment, contact the podiatrists from Issaquah Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Arthritic Foot Care  

Arthritis is a joint disorder that involves the inflammation of different joints in your body, such as those in your feet. Arthritis is often caused by a degenerative joint disease and causes mild to severe pain in all affected areas. In addition to this, swelling and stiffness in the affected joints can also be a common symptom of arthritis.

In many cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes can worsen the effects and pain of arthritis. Wearing shoes that have a lower heel and extra room can help your feet feel more comfortable. In cases of rheumatoid arthritis, the arch in your foot may become problematic. Buying shoes with proper arch support that contour to your feet can help immensely.

Alleviating Arthritic Pain

• Exercises that stretch the foot can prevent further pain and injury and increase mobility
• Most of the pain can be alleviated with anti-inflammatory drugs, heat, and topical medications
• Massages can help temporarily alleviate pain.

It is best to see your doctor for the treatment that is right for your needs and symptoms. Conditions vary, and a podiatrist can help you determine the right method of care for your feet.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Issaquah, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the heel bone, often forming either beneath the heel or at the back where the Achilles tendon attaches. They result from ongoing stress or irritation of the bone, leading to an overproduction of calcium deposits. Over time, this buildup creates a spur-like projection. Several factors can contribute to the formation of a heel spur. Included are tightness in the plantar fascia or calf muscles, repetitive pressure from activities like running or jumping, and irritation from shoes that press against the heel. Foot injuries and chronic conditions like arthritis that cause inflammation, can also play a role. Abnormal foot biomechanics, like flat feet, may increase tension on heel structures, further encouraging bone spur development. Symptoms include sharp pain in the heel when first standing, lingering soreness after activity, stiffness, or the presence of a hard lump. If you have symptoms of a heel spur, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Heel spurs can be incredibly painful and sometimes may make you unable to participate in physical activities. To get medical care for your heel spurs, contact the podiatrists from Issaquah Foot & Ankle Specialists. Our doctors will do everything possible to treat your condition.

Heels Spurs

Heel spurs are formed by calcium deposits on the back of the foot where the heel is. This can also be caused by small fragments of bone breaking off one section of the foot, attaching onto the back of the foot. Heel spurs can also be bone growth on the back of the foot and may grow in the direction of the arch of the foot.

Older individuals usually suffer from heel spurs and pain sometimes intensifies with age. One of the main condition's spurs are related to is plantar fasciitis.

Pain

The pain associated with spurs is often because of weight placed on the feet. When someone is walking, their entire weight is concentrated on the feet. Bone spurs then have the tendency to affect other bones and tissues around the foot. As the pain continues, the feet will become tender and sensitive over time.

Treatments

There are many ways to treat heel spurs. If one is suffering from heel spurs in conjunction with pain, there are several methods for healing. Medication, surgery, and herbal care are some options.

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