Teens: How To Pick Out Shoes

Right Shoe, Right Activity
Soccer shoes are different from Converse sneakers for a reason. Sports-specific shoes help prevent against injury by providing appropriate support. Basketball shoes, for example, provide extra ankle support, because of the side-to-side movements that are typical of the strain basketball puts on the ankle.
Get Fitted

If you need an athletic shoe, go to a shoe store that specializes in athletic footwear. The associates there are trained to help you find a shoe that's appropriate for your foot, the way you walk, and your sport. Look for a shoe that fits your foot, but don't be upset if it's not your normal size. Just like clothes, shoe size ranges from brand to brand. When you try on the shoes, they should be comfortable right away. Did you know that your feet are not the same size as the other? Pick a shoe that fits the larger foot. You should never have to break in a pair of athletic shoes.
Check For Support
The perfect shoe fits your foot in the front, the middle, and the back. Backless shoes alter the way you walk, and that causes foot pain and discomfort later on. You don't have to give up your flip-flops for good, but you can't wear them all the time. When shopping for shoes, look for ones that are stiff in the middle but bend at the ball of the foot. High heels are ok for special occasions like prom, graduation, and dates. Platforms or wedge heels are a better option.
Don't Let Your Soles Flap
When your soles start to flap, it's time to get new shoes. Check the tread and midsole, the cushiony part just before the sole. If there are uneven signs of wear, start shopping! Athletic shoes need to be replaced yearly; running shoes every 300-400 miles.
If you are a teen and experiencing foot pain or discomfort, call one of our six locations to make an appointment.
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Podiatrists in CT
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Teen Tips For A Fab Pedicure

Everyone needs a little foot pampering from time to time. Whether you're getting your toes ready for prom, prepping for beach season,or just want to splash on a bright color before a hot date, grooming your feet should be done frequently to not only keep feet looking good, but also to ensure proper foot health.
Here are a few pointers to keep in mind next time you get a pedicure at home or at a salon:
Don't shave your legs before receiving a pedicure. Resist the urge to have smooth legs, at least until afterward. Freshly shaven legs or small cuts on your legs may allow bacteria to enter your body.
Do bring your own pedicure utensils to the salon. Why? Because bacteria and fungus can move easily from one person to the next if the salon doesn't use proper sterilization techniques. Yuck!

Don't allow salons to use a foot razor to remove dead skin. Using a razor can result in permanent damage if used incorrectly and can easily cause infection if too much skin is removed.
Do use a pumice stone, foot file, or exfoliating scrub when eliminating thick, dead skin build-up, also known as calluses, on the heel, ball and sides of the foot. Be sure to soak your feet in warm water for at least five minutes and then use the stone, scrub, or foot file.
Don't apply nail polish to cover up discolored nails. Thick and discolored toenails could be a sign of a fungal infection. Nail polish locks out moisture and doesn't allow the nail bed to "breathe." If you think you have a toenail infection, schedule an appointment with today's podiatrist immediately to get it checked out.
Do gently run a wooden or rubber manicure stick under your nails. This helps keep your nails clean and removes the dirt, glitter, and other types of build-up you may not be able see.
Connecticut Foot Care Centers
Podiatrists in CT
Visit our website, follow our tweets on Twitter, and friend or like our page on Facebook. 

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Do I Have To Do That? Teen Foot Care 101

Keeping your feet healthy can help you avoid embarrassing and uncomfortable problems such as athlete's foot, foot odor, and toenail fungus. Follow these steps for healthy feet:
Wash your feet daily with soap and water. It's tempting just to swish your feet around in the shower but today's podiatrist says it's important to use soap to remove germs and grime. Don't forget to wash in between your toes!

Keep feet dry. Fungus, including the kind that causes athlete's foot, loves to grow in moist, damp environments, so after your shower dry your feet thoroughly, paying extra attention to the spaces between your toes. If your socks get wet during the day, change socks (It's not a bad idea to keep an extra pair in your locker or gym bag!).
Trim toenails on a slight curve. Too long toenails not only wreck your socks and look crazy, but they can harbor bacteria (eww!). Use a pair of toenail clippers to cut your toenails to just above or at the edge of your toe. Some docs will tell you to cut straight across, but a slight curve is ok too.
Wear supportive, properly fitted shoes. Improperly fitted, unsupportive shoes are a major cause of foot pain and injury. Don't worry- you don't have to wear granny shoes to get good support.