Measuring your foot is a simple way to ensure proper shoe fit and avoid discomfort. To measure length, place your heel against a wall and mark the tip of your longest toe, then measure the distance. To measure width, wrap a soft tape measure around the widest part of your foot, and then use a conversion chart to determine the correct shoe size. Wearing shoes that do not fit properly can lead to blisters, bunions, corns, hammertoes, and even long-term joint pain. A podiatrist can assess your foot shape, gait, and any underlying conditions while recommending supportive shoes or custom orthotics for comfort and protection. If you have foot pain from wearing the wrong shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional tips for finding your right shoe size.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of Theresa Brown, DPM from Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. Our doctor will provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Getting the Right Shoe Size

There are many people who wear shoes that are the incorrect size, negatively affecting their feet and posture. Selecting the right shoes is not a difficult process, so long as you keep several things in mind when it comes to choosing the right pair.

• When visiting the shoe store, use the tools available to measure your foot.
• Be sure there is ‘wiggle room’. There should be about an inch between your toes and the tip of your shoes.
• Do not always assume you are the same size, as manufacturers run differently.
• Purchase shoes later in the day, as your feet swell as the day progresses.
• If a shoe is not comfortable, it is not suitable. Most shoes can’t be ‘broken in’, and comfort should be the ultimate goal when it comes to choosing the right pair of shoes

As our feet hold our body weight and keep us moving, it is important to treat them right. Picking the right pair of shoes can provide your feet comfort and mobility without pain.

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

Corns and callouses are thickened areas of skin that develop in response to repeated pressure or friction on the feet. They often appear on the toes, soles, or heels and may look hard, rough, yellowed, or raised. Corns are usually smaller with a central core, while callouses cover a broader area. These areas can feel uncomfortable, tender, or painful, especially when walking or wearing shoes, and some people notice a burning or aching sensation. Causes include ill-fitting footwear, high activity levels, repetitive motion, and lack of cushioning or support. A podiatrist can help from the start by identifying the source of pressure and confirming the diagnosis. Initial treatment may include safe removal of thickened skin. Care can then move into custom orthotics, gait evaluation, and preventive strategies to reduce recurrence and improve comfort. Addressing corns and callouses early can help protect overall foot health. For care, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist.

Corns can make walking very painful and should be treated immediately. If you have questions regarding your feet and ankles, contact Theresa Brown, DPM of Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Corns: What Are They? And How Do You Get Rid of Them?
Corns are thickened areas on the skin that can become painful. They are caused by excessive pressure and friction on the skin. Corns press into the deeper layers of the skin and are usually round in shape.

Ways to Prevent Corns
There are many ways to get rid of painful corns such as:

• Wearing properly fitting shoes that have been measured by a professional
• Wearing shoes that are not sharply pointed or have high heels
• Wearing only shoes that offer support

Treating Corns

Although most corns slowly disappear when the friction or pressure stops, this isn’t always the case. Consult with your podiatrist to determine the best treatment option for your case of corns.

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

Ankle sprains are a common injury among volleyball players due to sudden jumps, quick lateral movements, and unexpected landings. These movements can stretch or tear the ligaments that support the ankle, causing pain and instability. Symptoms of an ankle sprain include swelling, bruising, tenderness, difficulty bearing weight, and a feeling of the ankle giving way during activity. If left untreated, repeated sprains can lead to chronic instability and long-term joint problems. A podiatrist can evaluate the severity of the sprain, recommend appropriate treatment such as rest or bracing, and provide guidance on proper footwear or supportive devices to prevent future injuries. If you have  ankle pain or instability after volleyball activity, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist to restore stability, reduce pain, and protect your ankle for a safe return to the sport.

Ankle sprains are common but need immediate attention. If you need your feet checked, contact Theresa Brown, DPM from Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. Our doctor 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 our office located in Montgomery, AL . We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is a chronic autoimmune condition that can affect the joints in the feet, causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness. The immune system attacks joint tissues, leading to swelling, warmth, and decreased mobility. Symptoms in the feet may include difficulty walking, bunion formation, hammertoes, and joint deformities over time. Causes of RA involve genetic and environmental factors, while risk factors include family history, female gender, age, and smoking. Early diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent joint damage and maintain mobility. A podiatrist can evaluate foot health, provide custom orthotics, recommend supportive footwear, and suggest targeted therapies to reduce pain and inflammation. If you have symptoms of RA in your feet, it is suggested that you schedule a podiatry consultation to protect foot function and relieve discomfort.

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact Theresa Brown, DPM of Essie M.B. Smith Foot Clinic. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

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