It is essential for young children to be barefoot when they first learn to walk, in order to allow their muscles to develop properly. The bones in a baby’s foot aren’t fully developed until they are around 5 years old, and tend to be very soft up until that point. To ensure toddler shoes fit properly and support healthy foot development, check length, width, flexibility, and heel grip. There should be about a thumb’s width of space at the front for growth, and the sides should fit snugly without pinching while allowing toe movement. Choose shoes with soft, flexible soles that bend easily to encourage natural movement. Lastly, make sure the heel fits securely without slipping or feeling overly tight, which helps prevent blisters and provides stability. If your child is just learning to walk, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for guidance on proper footwear.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Christian Smith, DPM of UTOEpia Foot and Ankle Specialist. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

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

A bunion, also known as hallux valgus,  is a deformity of the big toe joint that can cause pain, swelling, and difficulty walking. Surgery is sometimes chosen when conservative treatments no longer provide relief. For middle-aged and older adults, one important consideration is how the procedure may influence balance and gait. Research has shown that correcting the alignment of the big toe can improve stability, reduce pain, and restore more natural walking patterns. However, recovery requires time and rehabilitation, and some individuals may experience temporary weakness or changes in weight distribution. Wearing proper footwear, targeted exercises, and a gradual return to activity are key factors in regaining full function. Each patient’s outcome can vary depending on health, activity level, and severity of the deformity. If you are considering bunion surgery and have concerns about balance or gait, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for personalized guidance and appropriate care.

Foot surgery is sometimes necessary to treat a foot ailment. To learn more, contact Christian Smith, DPM of UTOEpia Foot and Ankle Specialist. Our doctor will assist you with all of your foot and ankle needs.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

Foot and ankle surgery is generally reserved for cases in which less invasive, conservative procedures have failed to alleviate the problem. Some of the cases in which surgery may be necessary include:

• Removing foot deformities like bunions and bone spurs
• Severe arthritis that has caused bone issues
• Cosmetic reconstruction

What Types of Surgery Are There?

The type of surgery you receive will depend on the nature of the problem you have. Some of the possible surgeries include:

• Bunionectomy for painful bunions
• Surgical fusion for realignment of bones
• Neuropathy decompression surgery to treat nerve damage

Benefits of Surgery

Although surgery is usually a last resort, it can provide more complete pain relief compared to non-surgical methods and may allow you to finally resume full activity.

Surgical techniques have also become increasingly sophisticated. Techniques like endoscopic surgery allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

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

Most children with flat feet, a common condition where the arches of the feet are not visibly raised, often outgrow this trait as they develop. In many cases, children experience no discomfort and lead active, healthy lives without any intervention. However, for some, flat feet may lead to pain or affect their walking pattern, in which case custom-made orthotics become a treatment worth considering. Custom orthotics are specially designed insoles that fit into a child's shoes, tailored to their unique foot structure. These devices provide the necessary support for the arches, helping to distribute weight more evenly across the feet. This can alleviate any discomfort and may correct walking abnormalities caused by flat feet. Importantly, orthotics are designed to work with a child's growing feet, offering a flexible solution that adjusts to their developmental changes. If your child is experiencing foot problems from having flat feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist to discuss whether custom-made orthotics will help.

Custom orthotics can make a remarkable difference in daily comfort and mobility by supporting the feet in their most natural and balanced position. Because the feet form the foundation for the entire body, any imbalance can affect not only how a person walks, but also how the knees, hips, and spine align. Over time, this can lead to fatigue, pain, or reduced movement. Custom orthotics are designed to restore stability and promote proper alignment, which can transform the way a person feels and functions throughout the day.

People who wear custom orthotics often experience improved posture, less joint strain, and greater endurance during work, exercise, and leisure activities. The support they provide helps relieve chronic discomfort from conditions such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and heel pain, while also reducing the risk of future injuries. For those who stand for long hours or engage in sports, orthotics can make movement smoother and more efficient, allowing the body to perform at its best without unnecessary stress.

Each pair of custom orthotics is created after a detailed evaluation of foot structure, gait, and pressure distribution. By addressing each person’s unique needs, they offer comfort and confidence with every step.

If you are experiencing ongoing foot discomfort or fatigue, it is suggested that you contact our office for more information or to make an appointment.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Memphis, TN .