Educational Articles: Topics

Can applying heat to the plantar fascia (in combination with proper footwear and Correct Toes), facilitate healing of plantar fasciosis? And since plantar fasciosis is due to insufficient bloodflow, does this mean that icing the plantar fascia should be avoided? Dr. Ray McClanahan, a sports podiatrist at Northwest Foot and Ankle and the inventor of Correct Toes, tackles these questions in this short yet informative video. Learn... Read more

Heel elevation is a design element present in almost every shoe, from dress shoes to work boots to running shoes, though there is little (if any) compelling evidence to account for its inclusion in shoes or other footwear. Most people in the United States and other parts of the world begin wearing shoes when they learn to walk, some even before. Almost all... Read more

Dr. Robyn and I are often stopped on hiking and running trails by fellow outdoor enthusiasts who notice our unique footwear choices. With puzzled looks on their faces, they ask us how we avoid spraining our ankles in such minimalist footwear on such uneven terrain. The truth is, minimalist shoe wearers are at a distinct advantage when... Read more

Luna sandals are foot-healthy minimalist sandals that allow your toes to splay the way nature intended. These comfortable and versatile sports sandals come equipped with an easily adjustable strapping system that can be tailored to suit your unique feet. This video walks you through the four key adjustments you can make to your Luna sandals to achieve the best possible... Read more

In this video, Dr. Ray McClanahan, a sports podiatrist at Northwest Foot and Ankle and the inventor of Correct Toes, discusses how to select the healthiest possible footwear to support your child's growth and development. Choosing the proper footwear for your child early on can have an enormously beneficial effect on his or her foot and joint health later in life. Protecting the shape and function of... Read more

With four distinct sizes to choose from, Correct Toes works great for many people right out of the box. Because all sets of feet and toes are unique, however, it's sometimes necessary to make changes to the device to accommodate different needs. Correct Toes toe spacers are amazingly versatile and can be customized to enhance your toe comfort or address... Read more

We often receive the following question (or slight variations thereof) from readers and customers who are interested in determining the proper width of shoe to purchase: I had my foot width measured at a local shoe store and was told that I need a wide shoe. Will the shoes you offer on your site work for me and my feet? First, let me say that conventional foot... Read more

This insightful video offers several simple and effective techniques you can perform to keep your feet healthy while you're at work. These techniques include going barefoot in your office as often as possible, bringing flats or sandals into your workplace, keeping some foot massage tools under your desk, and performing the Big Toe Stretch and Toe Extensor Stretch as well as other exercises that help strengthen the intrinsic... Read more

Watch this video to learn how to accurately measure your foot length. This video was created by Xero Shoes founder Steven Sashen for Xero Shoes products, but the procedure works equally well for all other brands. Please note that most of you will have one foot that is longer than the other (this is normal!), so be sure to measure both feet. The longer measurement is the... Read more

Metatarsal pads can help treat or prevent numerous foot problems, including hammertoes, plantar fasciosis, capsulitis, neuromas, and other causes of ball of foot pain. Check out the above educational video (featuring Dr. Ray McClanahan, natural sports podiatrist and the inventor of Correct Toes) to learn more about how to properly place metatarsal pads. The below video also demonstrates how to best situate your metatarsal pads within your... Read more