Podiatry Blog | Podiatrist, Foot Doctor Sioux Falls, SD 57105

How Shoes Should Fit to Support Foot Health

Tuesday, 08 July 2025

Wearing shoes that fit properly is essential for keeping feet comfortable and preventing injury. A well-fitting shoe allows enough space at the front so toes can move freely without rubbing. There should be about a thumb’s width between the longest toe and the end of the shoe. The heel should sit securely without slipping, and the sides should feel snug, but not tight. Arch support should match the shape of your foot to help with balance and reduce strain. Shoes that are too tight can increase the risk of blisters, bunions, or ingrown toenails, while shoes that are too loose may cause instability or falls. Measuring both feet and trying on shoes at the end of the day, when feet are slightly swollen, can help ensure the best fit. If you have developed foot pain from wearing shoes that do not fit correctly, or have concerns about your shoe fit or foot comfort, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for expert advice.

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 Gabe Rodriguez, DPM from Sioux Falls Foot Specialist. Our doctor 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 feel free to contact our office located in Sioux Falls, SD . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Why Live with Pain and Numbness in Your Feet?

Wednesday, 02 July 2025

Suffering from this type of pain? You may have the foot condition known as Morton's neuroma. Morton's neuroma may develop as a result of ill-fitting footwear and existing foot deformities. We can help.

Understanding Sever’s Disease in Children

Tuesday, 01 July 2025

Sever’s disease is a common cause of heel pain in growing children, especially those who are active in sports. It is not actually a disease but a temporary condition that occurs when the growth plate at the back of the heel becomes irritated. This area is still developing in children, and repeated impact from running or jumping can lead to inflammation. Symptoms often include pain during or after activity, limping, and tenderness when the heel is squeezed. The condition typically affects children between the ages of 8 and 14, and tends to improve once growth slows down. Rest, wearing supportive shoes, and stretching exercises are often helpful in reducing discomfort. In some cases, custom orthotics may be recommended to reduce pressure on the heel. If your child is complaining of heel pain that does not go away, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and offer relief options for Sever’s disease.

Sever's disease often occurs in children and teens. If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, see Gabe Rodriguez, DPM from Sioux Falls Foot Specialist. Our doctor can treat your child’s foot and ankle needs.

Sever’s Disease

Sever’s disease is also known as calcaneal apophysitis, which is a medical condition that causes heel pain I none or both feet. The disease is known to affect children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Sever’s disease occurs when part of the child’s heel known as the growth plate (calcaneal epiphysis) is attached to the Achilles tendon. This area can suffer injury when the muscles and tendons of the growing foot do not keep pace with bone growth. Therefore, the constant pain which one experiences at the back of the heel will make the child unable to put any weight on the heel. The child is then forced to walk on their toes.

Symptoms

Acute pain – Pain associated with Sever’s disease is usually felt in the heel when the child engages in physical activity such as walking, jumping and or running.

Highly active – Children who are very active are among the most susceptible in experiencing Sever’s disease, because of the stress and tension placed on their feet.

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

Pros and Cons of Flatfoot Surgery

Tuesday, 24 June 2025

Surgery is an option for rebuilding the arch of the foot when the structure has collapsed and causes ongoing pain or instability. People with flat feet often experience discomfort in the arch, heel, or ankle, along with poor foot alignment that can lead to difficulty in walking. Flatfoot surgery involves shifting bone position, repairing ligaments, or replacing damaged tendons to support the arch. These changes improve foot function, reduce pain, and help prevent complications. A podiatrist can determine the appropriate surgical method based on the severity of the condition and how much the arch has collapsed. The advantages of flatfoot surgery include better foot support, improved posture, and relief from pressure along the inner foot and ankle. However, recovery can be lengthy and may involve risks such as infection, swelling, or poor bone healing. A podiatrist provides the necessary evaluation and guidance throughout the process. If you have foot pain caused by flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist to find out if surgery is a treatment option.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact Gabe Rodriguez, DPM from Sioux Falls Foot Specialist. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.

Symptoms

Pain around the heel or arch area
Trouble standing on the tip toe
Swelling around the inside of the ankle
Flat look to one or both feet
Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle.

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

All About Foot Fractures

Tuesday, 17 June 2025

A foot fracture can affect any of the 26 bones in the foot, including the toes, metatarsals, sesamoids near the big toe, and the rearfoot bones such as the navicular, talus, and heel bone. These foot fractures often result from twisting injuries, falls, or direct impact against a hard surface. Pain is usually immediate and worsens when placing weight on the foot. A podiatrist typically diagnoses a fracture using an X-ray to identify the location and type of break. In some cases, additional imaging may be required if the fracture is complex or not visible on standard X-rays. Treatment depends on which bone is fractured and the severity of the break. It often involves wearing a splint, cast, or a protective shoe or boot to stabilize the foot. Weight-bearing may be restricted for several weeks while the bone heals. If you have broken a bone in your foot, it is suggested that you make an immediate appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment options.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact Gabe Rodriguez, DPM from Sioux Falls Foot Specialist. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury.

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

Bruising
Pain
Redness
Swelling
Blue in color
Numbness
Cold
Misshapen
Cuts
Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.