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.

Heel pain is a frequent complaint that can interfere with walking, exercise, and daily routines. At Reston and Manassas Foot and Ankle Centers in Manassas and Reston, VA, patients receive specialized care for heel pain that doesn’t improve with rest. Whether caused by overuse or an underlying condition, heel pain deserves attention before affecting mobility and quality of life. Understanding the Causes of Heel Pain The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis, which is inflammation of the thick band supporting the foot arch. It often causes sharp pain with the initial morning steps. Less frequently, pain can be caused by a heel spur, a calcium deposit on the heel bone, and Achilles tendonitis, inflammation of the tendon running from the calf muscles into the back of the heel. Nerve irritation and bursitis can also lead to chronic pain for others. When to See a Podiatrist Not all heel pain is serious, but some symptoms mean it is time to see a podiatrist. If it has continued for more than a few days, increases with exercise, or affects walking, it is advisable to have it checked by a professional. Swelling, numbness, or tingling in the heel are also signals that a visit to the doctor is in order. Early diagnosis will prevent the development of more serious conditions and long-term complications. How Heel Pain Is Treated We start the treatment at Reston and Manassas Foot and Ankle Centers with a proper examination and diagnostic tests if the case calls for it. Conservative treatment may come in the form of physical therapy, custom orthotics, anti-inflammatory medication, or personalized stretches. Night splints and heel cups may provide support and relieve some pressure. When these fail, more sophisticated treatments such as corticosteroid injections or intervention with minimal surgical procedures may be prescribed. Surgery is only advised if the above treatments fail. Early Care Leads to Better Results Addressing heel pain early often leads to faster recovery and reduces the risk of chronic problems. Prompt care allows patients to resume regular activities with less disruption and a better long-term outlook. With the help of experienced podiatrists, patients can return to walking comfortably and avoid future complications. For expert evaluation and personalized heel pain treatment, contact Reston and Manassas Foot and Ankle Centers in Manassas and Reston, VA. Call (703) 437-6333 for the Reston/Herndon office or (703) 368-7166 for the Manassas/Gainesville office to schedule your appointment.