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Why Proper Shoe Fit Matters for Lifelong Foot Health

Tuesday, 14 April 2026

Proper shoe fit plays a vital role in maintaining overall foot health and preventing avoidable injuries. Many adults unknowingly wear shoes that are too large, which can lead to blisters, instability, and an increased risk of trips and falls. Shoes that are too small can be equally harmful, contributing to painful conditions such as bunions and hammertoes. Wearing the right shoes for specific activities is essential for support, comfort, and injury prevention. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, recommend appropriate footwear, and address existing concerns before they worsen. Taking the time to choose correctly fitted shoes can improve mobility, reduce pain, and support long-term wellness. If you have foot pain from possibly wearing the wrong size shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and guide you on the appropriate shoe size to wear.

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 Corinne R. Kauderer, DPM from Dyker Heights Foot & Ankle. 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 contact one of our offices located in Brooklyn, NY and Old Bridge, NJ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Ingrown Toenail Facts

Tuesday, 07 April 2026

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain and inflammation. This condition is often caused by improper nail trimming, toe injuries, genetic factors, or repetitive foot stress from activities like running or wearing tight shoes. Risk factors include curved nails, poor foot hygiene, and excessive pressure on the toes. Symptoms include pain along the nail edge, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection with drainage. Without proper care, an ingrown toenail can worsen and make walking uncomfortable. A podiatrist can safely treat ingrown toenails by relieving pressure, removing the affected portion of the nail, and preventing recurrence through proper care techniques. If you have symptoms of an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for treatment solutions, which may include minor surgery.

Ingrown toenails can become painful if they are not treated properly. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact Corinne R. Kauderer, DPM of Dyker Heights Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Causes

Bacterial infections
Improper nail cutting such as cutting it too short or not straight across
Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing, which causes the nail to grow back irregularly
Ill-fitting shoes that bunch the toes too close together
Genetic predisposition

Prevention

Wearing proper fitting shoes and using proper cutting techniques will also help decrease your risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Treatment

Ingrown toenails are a very treatable foot condition. In minor cases, soaking the affected area in salt or antibacterial soaps will not only help with the ingrown nail itself, but also help prevent any infections from occurring. In more severe cases, surgery is an option. In either case, speaking to your podiatrist about this condition will help you get a better understanding of specific treatment options that are right for you.

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

Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?

Wednesday, 01 April 2026

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

Bunions and How They Are Treated

Tuesday, 31 March 2026

A bunion is a bony bump that forms at the base of the big toe joint. It develops when the big toe gradually shifts toward the second toe, causing the joint to stick outward. This change can lead to swelling, redness, and pain, especially when wearing tight or narrow shoes. Bunions often develop due to inherited foot structure, arthritis, or repeated pressure on the toes from footwear. As the joint becomes more misaligned, walking and standing may become uncomfortable. Early treatment often focuses on reducing pressure and irritation. Wearing shoes with a wide toe box, using protective padding, and adding custom orthotics can help support the foot and ease discomfort. Anti-inflammatory care may also reduce swelling. When bunions become severe and interfere with daily activities, surgical correction may be considered to realign the joint. If you notice a painful bump forming near your big toe, it is suggested that you see a podiatrist who can evaluate the problem and recommend appropriate treatment.

If you are suffering from bunions, contact Corinne R. Kauderer, DPM of Dyker Heights Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is a Bunion?

A bunion is formed of swollen tissue or an enlargement of boney growth, usually located at the base joint of the toe that connects to the foot. The swelling occurs due to the bones in the big toe shifting inward, which impacts the other toes of the foot. This causes the area around the base of the big toe to become inflamed and painful.

Why Do Bunions Form?

Genetics – Susceptibility to bunions are often hereditary

Stress on the feet – Poorly fitted and uncomfortable footwear that places stress on feet, such as heels, can worsen existing bunions

How Are Bunions Diagnosed?

Podiatrists often perform two tests – blood tests and x-rays – when trying to diagnose bunions, especially in the early stages of development. Blood tests help determine if the foot pain is being caused by something else, such as arthritis, while x-rays provide a clear picture of your bone structure to your provider.

How Are Bunions Treated?

Refrain from wearing heels or similar shoes that cause discomfort
Select wider shoes that can provide more comfort and reduce pain
Anti-inflammatory and pain management drugs
Orthotics or foot inserts
Surgery

Achilles Tendinopathy and Protecting Heel Health

Tuesday, 24 March 2026

Achilles tendinopathy is a tendon-related condition involving irritation and degeneration of the Achilles tendon, the strong band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This structure plays an important role in walking, running, and lifting the heel from the ground. Symptoms include swelling, tenderness, and stiffness that is frequently worse in the morning or after periods of rest. Individuals may also experience reduced movement and loss of strength in the lower leg. Causes may involve a sudden change in exercise level, prolonged time on the feet, or long periods of sedentary activity that weaken the tendon. Risk factors include tight calf muscles and repetitive strain. A podiatrist can evaluate tendon health and guide treatment. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose and treat Achilles tendon injuries.

Achilles tendon injuries need immediate attention to avoid future complications. If you have any concerns, contact Corinne R. Kauderer, DPM of Dyker Heights Foot & Ankle. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

What Is the Achilles Tendon?

The Achilles tendon is a tendon that connects the lower leg muscles and calf to the heel of the foot. It is the strongest tendon in the human body and is essential for making movement possible. Because this tendon is such an integral part of the body, any injuries to it can create immense difficulties and should immediately be presented to a doctor.

What Are the Symptoms of an Achilles Tendon Injury?

There are various types of injuries that can affect the Achilles tendon. The two most common injuries are Achilles tendinitis and ruptures of the tendon.

Achilles Tendinitis Symptoms

Inflammation
Dull to severe pain
Increased blood flow to the tendon
Thickening of the tendon

Rupture Symptoms

Extreme pain and swelling in the foot
Total immobility

Treatment and Prevention

Achilles tendon injuries are diagnosed by a thorough physical evaluation, which can include an MRI. Treatment involves rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. However, various preventative measures can be taken to avoid these injuries, such as:

Thorough stretching of the tendon before and after exercise
Strengthening exercises like calf raises, squats, leg curls, leg extensions, leg raises, lunges, and leg presses

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

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