Proper shoe fitting is essential for maintaining foot health and preventing common foot problems. Shoes that fit correctly support natural movement, reduce pressure points, and improve overall comfort during daily activities. Wearing ill-fitting shoes can lead to pain, instability, and long-term complications. Learning how to measure and select the right shoe size helps protect the feet and supports proper alignment. A well-fitted shoe should provide enough room for the toes, secure support around the heel, and balanced cushioning throughout the foot.

To achieve an accurate fit, it is important to measure the feet at the end of the day when they are slightly swollen. Wearing the same type of socks that will be used with the shoes can also improve accuracy. Another helpful method is to trace the foot on paper and compare the outline against a shoe size chart. Trying on both shoes and walking around allows for a better sense of fit and support.

Wearing shoes that do not fit properly can lead to a range of foot problems. Common issues include blisters, bunions, hammertoes, and toenail damage. Shoes that are too tight may cause pressure and irritation, while shoes that are too loose can lead to instability and friction. These problems can affect posture, walking patterns, and overall foot function. Poor shoe fit may also contribute to heel pain, arch strain, and nerve irritation.

Choosing the right shoes and ensuring a proper fit can improve comfort, reduce injury risk, and support long-term foot health. Paying attention to sizing, width, and support features helps create a better fit for daily activities and exercise. Regularly checking shoe condition and replacing worn footwear is also important for maintaining support. If you have foot pain or difficulty finding shoes that fit properly, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief tips and guidance on proper shoe fit.

Getting the right shoe size is an important part of proper foot health. Seek the assistance of one of our podiatrists from Summerlin Foot & Ankle. Our doctors 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 Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet and can spread when left untreated. Fungi are tiny living organisms that grow well in warm, moist environments. The infection frequently begins between the toes, but it can also affect the soles, sides, or heels of the feet. Patients often notice itching, burning, or peeling skin. Redness and cracking can also develop, making walking uncomfortable. In more severe cases, blisters or painful skin splits can appear. Because several skin conditions produce similar symptoms, a podiatrist can perform a thorough examination to determine whether a fungal infection is causing the problem and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

Athlete's foot spreads through direct contact with infected skin or contaminated surfaces. Places like locker rooms, public showers, and swimming pool areas increase the chance of exposure. The infection also spreads through shared towels, socks, or shoes. Wearing shoes for long periods can create a warm, damp environment that encourages fungal growth. Patients with diabetes or weakened immune systems can have a greater risk of developing more severe infections. A podiatrist can identify the specific type of fungal infection and determine whether it has spread to the toenails or other areas of the foot.

Treatment depends on the severity of the infection and how much skin is involved. A podiatrist can prescribe antifungal medications that target the fungus and help clear the infection. Patients with more extensive infections sometimes require oral medication to improve treatment results. A podiatrist also evaluates the feet for skin damage, nail involvement, and signs of a bacterial infection that can develop when cracked skin allows bacteria to enter. Early diagnosis and podiatric l treatment can improve comfort, reduce the chance of recurring infections, and help protect long-term foot health. If you have symptoms of athlete's foot, it is suggested that you  schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is often an uncomfortable condition to experience. Thankfully, podiatrists specialize in treating athlete’s foot and offer the best treatment options. If you have any questions about athlete’s foot, consult with one of our podiatrists from Summerlin Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality treatment.

What Is Athlete’s Foot?

Tinea pedis, more commonly known as athlete’s foot, is a non-serious and common fungal infection of the foot. Athlete’s foot is contagious and can be contracted by touching someone who has it or infected surfaces. The most common places contaminated by it are public showers, locker rooms, and swimming pools. Once contracted, it grows on feet that are left inside moist, dark, and warm shoes and socks.

Prevention

The most effective ways to prevent athlete’s foot include:

• Thoroughly washing and drying feet
• Avoid going barefoot in locker rooms and public showers
• Using shower shoes in public showers
• Wearing socks that allow the feet to breathe
• Changing socks and shoes frequently if you sweat a lot

Symptoms

Athlete’s foot initially occurs as a rash between the toes. However, if left undiagnosed, it can spread to the sides and bottom of the feet, toenails, and if touched by hand, the hands themselves. Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Burning
• Itching
• Scaly and peeling skin

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis is quick and easy. Skin samples will be taken and either viewed under a microscope or sent to a lab for testing. Sometimes, a podiatrist can diagnose it based on simply looking at it. Once confirmed, treatment options include oral and topical antifungal medications.

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

A foot stress fracture is a small crack in a bone that develops gradually due to repetitive force rather than a single injury. It commonly affects runners, athletes, and individuals who spend long hours on their feet. These fractures often occur in the metatarsal bones and are linked to repeated impact without enough recovery time. Causes include sudden increases in running intensity, changes in surface such as moving from soft ground to pavement, and wearing improper footwear. This condition may begin subtly, but can worsen if ignored.

Symptoms of a foot stress fracture usually start with mild pain that increases during activity. Over time, the pain may become constant and more localized. Swelling and tenderness are common, and the affected area may feel extremely sensitive to touch. Some individuals notice discomfort even during normal walking or standing. Unlike a soft tissue injury, the pain often persists despite rest, which can signal a more serious underlying issue.

Risk factors include age-related bone loss, which can reduce bone strength and increase vulnerability to fractures. Nutritional deficiencies, especially low calcium or vitamin D intake, may also weaken bones. Additional risk factors include overtraining, poor biomechanics, and a history of previous fractures. Wearing worn out or unsupportive shoes can further increase stress on the foot and contribute to injury.

Early recognition and proper care are essential for healing. Treatment often involves rest, activity modification, and wearing supportive footwear. In some cases, immobilization may be necessary to allow the bone to recover. Ignoring symptoms can lead to more severe injury and longer recovery time. If you have a foot stress fracture or suspect one due to consistent pain and swelling, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for effective relief and treatment solutions.

Stress fractures occur when there is a tiny crack within a bone. To learn more, contact one of our podiatrists from Summerlin Foot & Ankle. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain free and on your feet.

How Are They Caused?

Stress fractures are the result of repetitive force being placed on the bone. Since the lower leg and feet often carry most of the body’s weight, stress fractures are likely to occur in these areas. If you rush into a new exercise, you are more likely to develop a stress fracture since you are starting too much, too soon.  Pain resulting from stress fractures may go unnoticed at first, however it may start to worsen over time.

Risk Factors

• Gender – They are more commonly found in women compared to men.
• Foot Problems – People with unusual arches in their feet are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Certain Sports – Dancers, gymnasts, tennis players, runners, and basketball players are more likely to develop stress fractures.
• Lack of Nutrients – A lack of vitamin D and calcium may weaken the bones and make you more prone to stress fractures
• Weak Bones – Osteoporosis can weaken the bones therefore resulting in stress fractures

Stress fractures do not always heal properly, so it is important that you seek help from a podiatrist if you suspect you may have one. Ignoring your stress fracture may cause it to worsen, and you may develop chronic pain as well as additional fractures.

If you have any questions please contact our office located in Las Vegas, NV . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Poor foot circulation occurs when blood flow to the feet is reduced, limiting the delivery of oxygen and essential nutrients to surrounding tissues. This condition is commonly linked to peripheral vascular disease, a disorder that affects the blood vessels and restricts normal circulation. When blood flow is impaired, the feet may not function optimally and become more susceptible to injury, infection, and delayed healing. Recognizing early warning signs is crucial for maintaining long-term foot health and preventing serious complications.

Common symptoms of poor circulation include persistent coldness in the feet, numbness, and a tingling or “pins and needles” sensation. Some individuals may also experience intermittent pain or cramping, particularly during walking or physical activity. Reduced oxygen supply to the muscles can lead to fatigue, making movement more difficult over time. In addition, the skin on the feet may appear pale, bluish, or discolored, and even minor wounds may take longer than usual to heal. Without proper attention, these symptoms can gradually worsen and impact daily activities.

Several causes and risk factors contribute to poor foot circulation. Peripheral vascular disease is a leading cause and is often associated with narrowed or blocked arteries. Diabetes can further complicate circulation by damaging both blood vessels and nerves. Infections may also impair blood flow due to inflammation in affected tissues. Other contributing factors include smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and a sedentary lifestyle. Identifying and addressing these risks is essential for effective prevention and management.

Maintaining healthy circulation is vital for mobility, comfort, and overall foot function. Early intervention, combined with lifestyle changes and proper medical care, can significantly improve blood flow and tissue health. If you have symptoms of poor foot circulation, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist to explore effective relief and management solutions.

Poor circulation is a serious condition and needs immediate medical attention. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact one of our podiatrists of Summerlin Foot & Ankle. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs is can be caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD), which is the result of a buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Plaque buildup or atherosclerosis results from excess calcium and cholesterol in the bloodstream. This can restrict the amount of blood which can flow through the arteries. Poor blood circulation in the feet and legs are sometimes caused by inflammation in the blood vessels, known as vasculitis.

Causes

Lack of oxygen and oxygen from poor blood circulation restricts muscle growth and development. It can also cause:

• Muscle pain, stiffness, or weakness 
• Numbness or cramping in the legs
• Skin discoloration
• Slower nail & hair growth
• Erectile dysfunction

Those who have diabetes or smoke are at greatest risk for poor circulation, as are those who are over 50. If you have poor circulation in the feet and legs it may be caused by PAD and is important to make changes to your lifestyle in order to reduce risk of getting a heart attack or stroke. Exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle will dramatically improve conditions.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

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