Start the School Year on the Right Foot: Podiatrists’ Top Tips for Choosing Kids’ Shoes
August 22, 2025
As the school year kicks off, most parents are focused on school supplies, lunchboxes, and new routines—but one of the most important back-to-school essentials is often overlooked: a good pair of shoes. Children and teens spend hours on their feet every day—walking through school hallways, running during recess, or playing sports after school. The right footwear doesn’t just offer comfort; it plays a vital role in supporting growing feet, preventing injuries, and setting kids up for a healthy, confident school year.
Growing feet are still developing, and wearing shoes that are too tight, worn out, or lacking proper support can lead to common problems like heel pain (including conditions like Sever’s disease), flat feet, ingrown toenails, and joint discomfort. That’s why podiatrists emphasize the importance of choosing footwear that offers a proper fit, arch support, shock absorption, and durability.
When shopping for back-to-school shoes, look for pairs that leave about a thumb’s width of space at the toes, fit snugly at the heel, and provide good cushioning for impact. Breathable materials can help prevent excessive sweating, and durable construction ensures shoes can withstand the demands of daily wear. Our doctors recommend checking your child’s shoes every 4 to 6 months, as feet grow quickly and often outpace last season’s fit.
To make shopping easier, our doctors have shared their top recommended brands based on both professional insight and personal experience:
- Ten Little shoes are great for toddlers and early elementary students, with a foot-shaped design that allows toes to move freely, a built-in sizing guide for at-home accuracy, and flexible soles that support healthy development.
- New Balance Kids offers wide-width options ideal for children with higher insteps or broader feet, plus supportive midsoles and durable construction to keep up with active kids.
- Hoka Kids provide lightweight cushioning, structural support, and fun designs—perfect for highly active older children.
- See Kai Run , Stride Rite , and Asics are also excellent options for younger children and teens, especially those involved in sports or on their feet for long hours.
- For added support, especially in athletic or high-activity settings, Brooks is another solid choice.
If your child begins to complain of foot, heel, or ankle pain, starts walking differently, or if you notice red marks, blisters, or worn-out soles, it’s a good time to check their shoes—and consider a visit to a podiatrist. Early intervention can help prevent more serious conditions and ensure your child stays active and pain-free.
This school year, help your child put their best foot forward—literally. Whether you're shopping for the perfect pair of supportive sneakers or looking for guidance on orthotics or foot pain, our team is here to help. Schedule an appointment today to make sure your child’s feet are healthy, supported, and ready for every step of the school year.

By VIV Builder
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January 23, 2026
Understanding Podiatry Many people experience foot or ankle pain at some point, but they are not always sure where to turn for care. A podiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating conditions of the foot and ankle. Their goal is to help patients move comfortably, stay active, and avoid pain that interferes with daily life. Podiatrists receive specialized medical training focused entirely on the feet and ankles. Because these areas support the entire body, even minor issues can have a big impact if left untreated. What Conditions Do Podiatrists Treat? Podiatrists treat a wide range of foot and ankle conditions for patients of all ages. From common concerns like heel pain and ingrown toenails to more complex issues such as sports injuries and diabetic foot conditions, podiatrists are trained to handle both routine and advanced care. They also address structural problems, skin and nail conditions, and injuries that affect mobility. By identifying the root cause of foot or ankle pain, podiatrists help patients find long-term relief rather than temporary fixes. When Should You See a Podiatrist? Foot pain is not something you have to live with. If you notice ongoing discomfort, changes in how you walk, or issues with your toenails or skin, it may be time to see a podiatrist. Early care can help prevent small problems from becoming more serious and can reduce recovery time. Patients with diabetes should also see a podiatrist regularly to help prevent complications and maintain foot health. What to Expect During Your Visit During a podiatry appointment, your provider will take time to understand your symptoms and lifestyle. They will examine your feet and ankles and may recommend imaging or other tests if needed. Based on their findings, they will create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. Many podiatry treatments can be done in the office, allowing patients to return to normal activities quickly. Why Foot Health Matters Your feet play a major role in your overall health. Ongoing foot or ankle pain can lead to posture changes and strain on the knees, hips, and lower back. Proper foot care helps keep your entire body moving the way it should. Seeing a podiatrist is an important step in maintaining mobility and preventing future problems. Take the Next Step Toward Better Foot Health If foot or ankle pain is affecting your daily life, a podiatrist can help. With the right care and treatment, many conditions can be managed or resolved. Scheduling an appointment with a podiatrist is a simple step that can make a lasting difference in your comfort and mobility.

November 7, 2025
November marks National Diabetes Awareness Month , a time dedicated to raising awareness, supporting those affected, and sharing ways to live healthier with diabetes. With diabetes impacting millions of Americans, proactive foot care remains one of the most important—and often overlooked—parts of diabetes management. Why Foot Health Matters Diabetes can affect the feet in several ways, and early prevention is key. High blood sugar levels may lead to: Nerve damage (neuropathy) that causes numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation Reduced blood flow , slowing the healing process Higher risk of infections, wounds, and ulcers , which can become serious if left untreated Healthy, routine foot care can help prevent complications and support mobility, comfort, and long-term wellness. How Our Podiatry Team Supports Diabetic Foot Health We provide comprehensive diabetic foot care to protect, prevent, and treat foot-related concerns, including: Routine Diabetic Foot Exams Early detection and intervention to address concerns before they become more serious. Custom Orthotics Personalized support to improve balance, relieve pressure points, and enhance walking comfort. Advanced Wound Care Specialized treatment plans for wounds, ulcers, or injuries to promote faster healing and reduce risks. Footwear Guidance Recommendations for proper shoes and inserts designed to prevent irritation, friction, and injury. We’re Here to Help You Stay Healthy Caring for your feet is an essential part of staying active, independent, and healthy with diabetes. Whether you have questions about preventive care, footwear, or treatment options, our podiatrists are here to guide and support you every step of the way. This month is a great time to schedule a diabetic foot check or talk with us about ways to keep your feet protected year-round. Together, we can work toward better foot health and a healthier life with diabetes.









