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Annette S. Customer Spotlight

Today we want to take a minute to spotlight Annette.

Before coming to Frank’s, Annette had several different problems with her feet that had been getting worse over time.

And normally, that would be enough of a problem by itself.

But Annette also had something pretty big coming up.

She was planning to walk approximately 500 miles across Spain on the Camino de Santiago.

In her spotlight video above, you’ll see how she went from questioning whether her feet could handle the trip to walking around 15 miles a day for 35 days without pain.

It’s a great story, so make sure you watch the video above.

Meet Annette

Before Annette came to Frank’s, there wasn’t just one thing bothering her feet.

There were several.

As Annette said…

“Before I met Frank, there was probably four issues with my foot, and those issues were getting worse and worse over time.”

Those issues included…

✅ A painful bump on the top of her foot

✅ A high arch

✅ Calluses along the sides of her foot

✅ Numbness in her toes

The bump on top of her foot was one of the biggest problems.

Depending on the shoe and how tight it was, the pain could get as high as an eight out of ten.

Sometimes she would not even realize how irritated it had become until she took her shoe off and saw the redness.

The numbness in her toes was another issue.

After walking for a longer period of time…

Her toes could become numb and eventually start hurting.

And the calluses were an ongoing problem as well.

The longer Annette stayed on her feet, the more these issues started to show themselves.

Shopping, spending a long time around the house, or simply being on her feet for too long could make the issues worse.

For quite a while, Annette tried dealing with everything herself.

She tried things like…

Loosening and changing the way she laced her shoes
Cutting her walks shorter
Trying different shoes at running shoe stores
Visiting several running shoe stores looking for something that worked
Trying to manage the problems herself

But nothing really solved the problem.

As Annette said…

“I just did it on my own. I did not find anyone who could really help me.”

That was about to change.

Then Came the Camino de Santiago

The real turning point came when Annette’s daughter asked her to walk the Camino de Santiago with her.

This was not exactly a weekend hiking trip.

The Camino they were planning would take them approximately 500 miles across northern Spain.

They would average around 15 miles a day for 35 days.

That changed everything.

Annette knew how her feet felt after an hour of walking.

Now she was thinking about walking for hours and hours every day.

Over mountains.

Across rocks.

On pavement.

And over all sorts of different terrain.

She was not even sure she could do it.

Annette told her daughter she needed time before she could completely commit.

As she explained…

“If I didn’t think that my feet could handle this or my body, I was going to have to say no.”

That is when finding a real solution became much more important.

Annette’s Shoe-Fitting Experience

In 2019 a friend who had hiked the Camino de Santiago recommended Frank’s.

When Annette came to Frank’s, the experience was different from what she had gone through before.

Instead of simply trying another random pair of shoes…

Frank looked at how everything was working together.

Her feet.

The shoes.

The fit.

The support.

Even the way the shoes were laced.

That last part ended up being surprisingly important.

One of Annette’s biggest problems was the bump on top of her foot.

Other running shoe stores had changed the way her shoes were laced before.

But according to Annette…

They never really addressed that specific bump.

Frank did.

He changed the lacing so there was no direct pressure from the lace over that area.

Annette said…

“The way he was able to lace it completely eliminated that pressure on the bump. And that was a huge difference.”

From there, the right shoes and custom orthotics were put together for her feet.

And she noticed something almost immediately.

As Annette said…

“When he sat me down and put on the shoes, and I walked around, there was a huge difference in how the back and the front of the foot felt.”

She continued…

“So just walking around a little bit in the store, I could tell a difference right away.”

But walking around a shoe store was one thing.

Walking across Spain was going to be something completely different.

The Real Test

Annette eventually committed to the Camino.

And right from the beginning, the trip put her feet to the test.

The first day involved crossing the Pyrenees.

Not just one mountain.

Several mountains.

And Annette said that first day took around ten hours.

She was tired.

But something important did not happen.

Her feet did not bother her.

As Annette said…

“It was exhaustion for me, but my feet did not bother me.”

Then she kept going.

Day after day.

Across mountains, rocks, pavement, flat sections, and all the different surfaces along the Camino.

The problems with the calluses, heel, and bump were no longer stopping her.

And then came the result.

Annette said…

“And after walking 15 miles a day for 35 days, there is no pain.”

The Result Went Beyond The Camino

Completing the Camino was obviously a huge accomplishment.

But the difference did not disappear when Annette came home.

Before working with Frank…

Sshe was normally walking about 45 minutes in the morning.

Now?

She said…

“I am now walking 2 to 3 hours every morning versus 45 minutes because I’m able to do it without pain.”

And when Annette looks back on what might have happened if she had never gone to Frank, she does not think she would have been able to finish the Camino.

As she said…

“I truly, truly believe I would have had to leave the Camino.”

Instead, she finished it.

She got to experience the entire journey with her daughter.

And she can now spend more time walking at home without constantly worrying about what her feet are going to do.

What Can You Do If You Are Experiencing Foot Problems Like Annette?

If you are dealing with…

❌ Foot pain
❌ Numbness
❌ Calluses
❌ Pressure from your shoes
❌ Or other foot problems

Frank’s Custom Shoe Fitting can help.

If you are dealing with foot pain and need help, just like Annette did…

Click the button below to schedule an appointment

Can Your Shoes Be Saved?

Can your shoes be saved?

In this new, silly but important Shoe Fit 911 episode…

That is the question.

The video opens like a serious medical emergency.

Two nurses rush an elderly woman through a hospital hallway and directly into an operating room.

Then myself and the operating-room nurse move into position.

Her family waits outside for an update.

After a bit I walk into the waiting room…

And tell them I did everything I could…

To save her shoes.

The elderly woman is completely fine.

Then I write her a citation for three violations:

Untied laces.

Wrong size.

No grip.

Of course, the hospital scenario is exaggerated for comedy.

The footwear problems behind it are common.

So before you continue wearing the same pair every day, it is worth asking…

Can your shoes be saved?

What Does It Mean to Save a Pair of Shoes?

Not every shoe problem means the shoes immediately need to be thrown away.

Some issues may be correctable.

The shoes may need to be tied differently.

The fit may improve with a lacing adjustment.

A worn insert may need to be replaced.

The shoes may work better with a different sock or an appropriate insert.

But other problems cannot be corrected easily.

The shoe may be the wrong length.

It may be too narrow.

It may not have enough depth.

The heel may be the wrong shape.

The outsole may be worn smooth.

Or the shoe may simply be wrong for what the person does every day.

Determining whether your shoes can be saved starts with identifying the actual problem.

A Shoe Can Look Fine and Still Be Wrong

One of the main points of this Shoe Fit 911 episode is that footwear problems are not always obvious.

A shoe may look clean.

The upper may still be intact.

There may be no visible holes.

But the shoe may still be…

Too short
Too narrow
Too loose
Too shallow
Worn underneath
Unsuitable for the person’s daily activity
Unable to accommodate an insert or orthotic correctly

That is why appearance alone does not determine whether your shoes can be saved.

The fit and function matter more.

And this is important…

Replacing shoes does not mean choosing another pair solely by brand or appearance.

The replacement still needs to fit you the right way.

And the best way to do that is to have a professional fitting!

If you’d like to know whether or not your shoes can be saved, or if you need new ones you can schedule a fitting by clicking the link below…

https://calendly.com/shoefitting/appointment

Are You Wearing the Wrong Shoes for the Situation?

We wanted to make something different with this video.

Shoe fitting is important, but it is not always the most exciting thing to talk about.

So we decided to make it more entertaining.

This episode of Shoe Fit 911 is a horror/comedy spoof.

Tara is running through a foggy forest.

There is a monster chasing her.

She trips.

She falls.

And just when it looks like the monster is the biggest problem, Frank steps in.

But Frank does not focus on the monster first.

He notices her shoes.

Wrong shoes.

No support.

Canvas material.

So he writes her a Footwear Violation.

Obviously, this is meant to be funny.

But the point behind it is real.

The Monster Wasn’t The Problem

The joke of the video is that Tara thinks the monster is the problem.

Frank sees something else.

Her shoes.

That is what makes the video work.

It is an exaggerated situation, but it points to something simple…

Different situations call for different shoes.

A shoe can be fine in one setting and completely wrong in another.

Canvas shoes on a wet forest trail are not the best idea.

The same concept applies in everyday life.

The shoes you wear for walking may not be the right shoes for standing all day.

Your casual shoes may not be right for work.

The shoes you wear on flat indoor surfaces may not be right for trails, wet ground, uneven surfaces, or long days on your feet.

Why The Right Shoe Depends On The Situation

A lot of people think shoe fitting is only about size.

Length matters.

Width matters.

But that is not the whole story.

The situation matters too.

A shoe may need…

More support.

More structure.

Better grip.

A firmer heel counter.

More room in the toe box.

And so on…

It all depends on the person and what they need the shoe to do.

That is why guessing with shoes can be a problem.

You may buy a shoe that looks good or feels okay at first, but it may not be the right choice for your daily routine.

Wrong Shoes Are Not Always Obvious

Sometimes the wrong shoe is easy to spot.

A flimsy canvas shoe on a muddy trail is obvious.

But most of the time, it is not that simple.

A person may come in wearing a shoe that looks normal.

But after we look closer, the shoe may not match their foot, their activity, or the amount of time they spend on their feet.

That does not mean the shoe is bad for everyone.

It means it may be wrong for that person or that situation.

That is the important difference.

What Proper Shoe Fitting Looks At

At Frank’s Custom Shoe Fitting, we are not just looking at the number on the shoe box.

We look at the…

Person.

Foot.

Shoe.

We talk about what you do during the day.

Standing, walking, working on hard surfaces, etc.

Do you need room for an insert or custom orthotic?

Do you need more support, more depth, more width, or better structure?

That is how we help guide you toward a better footwear choice.

So if you are guessing with shoes, it may be time to stop guessing.

At Frank’s Custom Shoe Fitting in Middletown, NY, we help people find shoes, inserts, and custom orthotics that make sense for their feet and their daily life.

If you are dealing with foot pain and need help, schedule your appointment with the calendar below.

https://calendly.com/shoefitting/appointment

Are Your Shoes Causing Foot Pain? Frank’s 1980 Run Spoof

When talking about shoes causing foot pain, we’ve covered a bunch of different reasons why in the past.

So I thought, is there another “interesting and entertaining” way to do it?

Well, there is.

And it’s silly.

In a previous post, I introduced the first Shoe Fit 911 video. Since the feedback was good on that video I decided to make a second one.

And the video below is it.

Basically, the video goes like this…

Way back in 1980 I took a little run across America.

But along the way my shoes were causing pain and I tried to ignore it.

Until somebody decided to step in.

You’ll have to watch the video to see who it is.

There are all sorts of other videos that explain what causes foot pain, or what can alleviate foot pain, but this one is different.

It’s fun, it’s silly, and I think you’ll enjoy it.

So take a look and let me know what you think.

Oh, on a serious note…

If you think your shoes are causing foot pain but your not really sure, schedule a time with me in the calendar below so I can help.

Introducing Shoe Fit 911 – Case #001

For over 40 years, I’ve helped people find solutions for foot pain through proper shoe fitting, support, and orthotics.

Over those years, there’s been a ton of time spent helping customers understand things like heel slippage, shoe support, foot shape, stability, and orthotics thousands of times.

The challenge is…

They’re not the most exciting things to talk about.

So recently I had an idea.

What if some of the most common foot pain and shoe fitting problems could be explained in a way that was both educational and entertaining?

Then I thought, what if shoe-fitting mistakes were treated like emergencies or violations (in a funny way)?

And then, what if common footwear problems became investigations?

That’s how Shoe Fit 911 was created.

The goal of this video (there may be more) is simple.

Take real shoe-fitting issues that affect real people and present them in a lighthearted, fun way that still teaches something useful.

This video focuses on a few common problems I see all the time.

Heel slippage, cramped toes, lack of support.

Most people think these things are normal for shoes.

Others think they simply need to break their shoes in.

But often, these issues are a BIG sign that something isn’t working correctly.

So this Shoe Fit 911 video was designed in a comedic, fun way to point that out.

The result is something a little different than what I’ve done before.

A little education.

A little comedy.

And hopefully a lot more fun.

So check out Shoe Fit 911 – Case #001

If you enjoy it, there may be many more cases to investigate in the future.

Watch the video and let me know what you think.

Should Shoe Fit 911 become a regular series?

Why Better Arch Support Still Doesn’t Work!

Have foot pain in the arch? Added more arch support and the pain isn’t any better? If so, then make sure you watch the video below…

When it comes to foot pain and buying shoes or insoles, a lot of times people belive that having more arch support is better . It makes sense, right? If your feet hurt, then the obvious solution is to support the arch.

Not so fast.

One of the biggest misconceptions is in fact, arch support can only function right if the rest of the shoe is working properly.

The truth is, arch support is only as good as the way the heel fits in the shoe. If the heel doesn’t function properly, then the arch support can’t function properly.

A good-fitting shoe needs to cradle the back of your foot.

This means that the heel needs to be snug, not slipping and sliding around, and not collapsing.

When the heel functions properly, you can take advantage of the natural padding in your foot, especially the fat pad at the back that’s meant to absorb shock.

From there, shape becomes more important than cushion.

The shape within the shoe should rise gently to what is referred to as the “keystone” of the foot, or the navicular.

This is a very important spot where the low bone, the high bone, and the arch come together.

If this spot is not being supported correctly, the foot becomes unstable within the shoe, and this will cause stress to go forward into the toes and other parts of the foot.

Flat, soft cushioning may be comfortable, but it does not support the foot or align it correctly. In fact, it may cause more fatigue and discomfort over time.

The key to a proper shoe fitting is really very simple. The heel is stable, the shape is appropriate, and the cushion is used correctly.

When these elements are working correctly, the entire foot is working the way it was designed to work.

If you are not sure if your shoes are working for you, the best thing to do is to scroll down below and schdule an appointment.

You’ll be taken through our entire shoe fitting process and we will find the perfect shoe and solution for you.

Why Best Shoe Lists Don’t Work

Ever see those ‘best shoe lists’ on the internet? You know the type, the top 10 best running shoes or the 5 best snow boots.

Well, they are easy to consume, and easy to read but they’re not always great when it comes to finding the right shoe for you.

So I put together a really quick video explaining why and what you should really look for in “the best shoe.”

Check it out below.

And if you’d like help finding the ‘best shoe’ for you scholl down and schedule an appointment.

You’ll be taken through our in-depth shoe fitting process where we’ll address any foot pain issues you may be having, and help you find the right shoes.

Rikki G.’s Customer Spotlight

Today we want to take a minute to spotlight Rikki G.

Over the years Rikki has had to overcome quite a few challenges with foot pain. In her spotlight video above, you’ll see how she went from almost giving up to getting her entire life back. It’s a great story, so watch the video above.

Meet Rikki

Rikki was born without a hip socket. Over her life it has caused some issues. But it wasn’t until a few years ago when foot pain started to show up. And when it did, it got worse very quickly.

So Rikki did what most people do when they start to have foot pain.

✅ She tried pain relievers like lidocaine.

✅ She used a heating pad.

✅ Different insoles.

✅ Knee braces because the pain started impacting her knees.

She even went to a physical therapist that professional athletes go to.

But no matter what she tried or who she saw, the pain never got any better.

It got so bad that she could barely move around her house and go up and down steps.

Just to do that, she had to use a cane.

And so she began to feel like “less of a person” and started wondering if life was “worthwhile anymore.”

It got so bad that she realized she couldn’t live in her house anymore and was actively searching for a new ranch-style home.

That way she wouldn’t have to deal with steps.

Her home was her sanctuary. It was where she was happiest, and it was her favorite place to be.

So the thought of giving up her home was devastating.

The final straw was when she and her friends had a big trip planned, and Rikki was thinking of cancelling because she didn’t want to be in pain and hold her friends back.

Right about this time, Frank’s Custom Shoe Fitting was recommended to her.

Rikki was a little skeptical that Frank could help her because nothing else worked for her.

But she gave it a try.

Rikki’s Shoe-Fitting Experience

When Rikki came in and met Frank, she realized very quickly that this was going to be a different experience.

She immediately noticed the individual attention and care she was getting. Plus, she was getting an education on why her feet were having the problems they were having.

The thing that stuck out the most was when Frank watched her walk he knew immediately what the problem was.

And then he recommended that she needs a specific brand and type of shoe.

No doctor, no physical therapist ever recommended that to her.

Rikki said…

“I am stunned that no one ever told me that I was in the wrong kind of shoe. Not the doctors, not the physical therapists, no one.”

From there it was recommended that Rikki have a custom orthotic created.

Once the orthotic was created, there was one final piece that needed to be added to the shoes.

That was a splint/lift.

The moment that was added with the orthotic and the shoe…

Rikki’s pain drifted away.

Her pain, which was once above a ten and more like a 15 when she walked, was now a zero.

Now she could not only walk without pain…

She could go up and down steps…

Go to the stores…

And live her life without even thinking about the pain.

Plus, she no longer needed any pain relievers, braces, or patches and even stopped using her cane.

The best part was…

She didn’t have to sell her house and feels like herself again.

As Rikki said…

“Frank has changed my life.”

And as for the trip she was going to cancel…

She went on that trip, had a fantastic time, and walked an average of 10,000 steps a day without any issues.

What Can You Do If You Are Experiencing Pain Like Rikki?

If you have foot pain that won’t go away no matter what you try, then Frank’s Custom Shoe Fitting can help.

Frank’s has helped thousands of people find relief from foot pain.

They’ve delt with everything from basic aches and pains to issues like plantar fasciitis, Morton’s neuroma, and everything else in between.

So if you’re tired of dealing with foot pain, then schedule a consultation with Frank’s Custom Shoe Fitting by using the calendar below.

What Can You Put Inside Of A Shoe?

Most shoes on the market today have some sort of built-in or added cushion. Well, some dress shoes don’t, but others do. That being said, if there’s already cushioning then what can go inside of a shoe?

In the video below, we’ll explore some of the other options to help the shoe not just fit better but also help if there are some foot issues going on.

As you know, the human foot is a complex structure. It acts like a tripod, with 26 moving parts. This allows you to stay stable and move efficiently.

The problem is, most of today’s shoes don’t support this. They’re very “flat” on the inside.

Because of this, a lot of times your shoes can cause all sorts of problems and cause you to feel unstable.

If that’s the case, you will need extra support.

So then, what can you put inside of a shoe to help?

The first thing is…

An Over-The-Counter Insert

The over-the-counter insert is exactly what it sounds like. You buy any insert from a store and slide it into the shoe.

Two popular brands are Currex and Superfeet.

Depending on the brand, they can come in a range of sizes and shapes.

Also, some focus more on arch support, while others focus more on cushioning.

The challenge with the OTC inserts is that they’re generic and made for many people and may not work for your feet.

If you’re someone that needs a more specific solution to put in your shoe, then you’ll want to look into…

Custom Orthotics

Custom orthotics are specifically designed for your feet.

The orthotics that we make are high-quality and are extremely durable. In fact, the orthotic itself (not the top cover) can last most of your life.

The top cover can be made of different materials, such as EVA, neoprene, and even microsuede, and will have to be replaced once it’s worn down.

There is also a protective bottom cover that we add to give it even more durability.

Not only that, but we can add things such as a heel post for stability, a scaphoid or medial overlay to help the arch, and even a metatarsal bar for support towards the front of the foot.

Once the custom orthotic is completed, you can put it inside your shoe, and it will help with your specific foot issue.

The Importance Of Quality Materials

It’s crucial to use good materials for orthotics. Cheap plastics can break down quickly. They don’t provide the right support.

High-quality components are essential for the orthotic to be effective.

Lastly, investing in good materials means a better solution for your feet.

The Role of Filler and The Final Fit

Another thing you can put inside of a shoe is what is called “filler.” This is a layer of foam or EVA.

This layer can be thin, like a sixteenth of an inch, or thicker.

Sometimes we’ll even place custom orthotics on top of the shoe’s original insole to make sure there is a snug fit.

Because the goal is for your foot to feel “secure but not cramped.”

And to make sure your toes have plenty of room.

In the end, standard shoes often don’t support your feet properly.

The chances are you will have to put something inside your shoes.

If you need help figuring out what would be best, scroll down below and schedule an appointment.

That way we can give you the personalized attention you need and will help find the perfect solution to put inside your shoes.

What’s The Difference Between Walking Shoes And Running Shoes?

Did you know there are differences between walking shoes and running shoes? Some of the differences are minor, others are pretty significant. In the video below, you’ll see what’s different, plus, you’ll even learn a bit about boots for walking.

Let’s start by breaking down the different kinds of running shoes.

Running shoes are built to give you the most support, cushioning, and flexibility for high-impact movement. They fall into a few general categories, each designed to address different needs and desires.

The first category is…

Mainstream Running Shoes

Mainstream running shoes are the majority of what you see on store shelves. They’re what most people picture when they think “running shoe.”

They typically have about an 8mm heel-to-toe drop—i.e., the heel is a little higher than the front. These shoes are produced by large sports companies like Nike, Adidas, Brooks, New Balance, ASICS, Saucony, and Puma.

These shoes tend to have nylon uppers that provide ventilation and different midsole types.

One midsole type is cushioned to be comfortable.

The second type is cushioned with added arch support for more stability.

Mainstream sneakers are good for daily runs, casual workouts, or general fitness training.

They come in diverse levels of flex, thus allowing consumers to select a shoe depending on how they stride and their comfort needs.

The next category is…

Concept Running Shoes!

These shoes value efficiency and biomechanics and lean more toward depending on innovative elements.

For example…

Hoka and their Meta Rocker Technology

Their shoes typically have a meta rocker—an arcing sole that propels you forward. This encourages a more symmetrical gait and less effort on runs. Hoka shoes often have nylon uppers and a “J-Frame” construction, supporting the arch and heel of the foot.

Altra and Zero-Drop Design

Altra is famous for its zero-drop shoes in the sense that the toe and heel are even. This encourages a natural landing for the foot and more proper alignment. They have spacious toe boxes, which allow for spreading of the toes in a natural way. That creates a comfortable and stable stance for some people.

Oblique Toes and Unique Features

Some concept models feature oblique toe designs. They’re made for specific biomechanics, promoting comfort and reducing stress. They’re generally ideal for runners who want to optimize their form or those with specific foot needs.

Now, Let’s Talk About Walking Shoes.

Walking shoes differ from running shoes, primarily in their construction. They focus on stability and support for more repetitive, lower-intensity motion.

Walking shoes are typically constructed from uppers made of leather, which offer durability in addition to a more classic look.

They possess firmer soles that offer support in order to stabilize each step.

They also come in many different widths.

From narrow, medium, wide, extra-wide, and even double or triple extra-wide—to suit foot sizes of various kinds comfortably.

On top of that, walking shoes also have midsoles that are shock-absorbing and provide arch support, similar to running shoes.

Although the stiff sole makes the shoes less flexible. But that is ideal for walking.

One company that makes great walking shoes is SAS (San Antonio Shoe Company).

They are known for their comfort, durability, and quality. There are many models that offer excellent support in orthotic-friendly and water-resistant styles.

Most walking shoes are made with substantial cushioning, making them a joy to wear for the long hours on your feet. You also get styles that are designed for narrow to extra-wide widths, making it simple for everyone to find a great fit.

Flexible Cross-Over Walking and Running Shoes

There are shoes that can be used both for walking and leisure running. An example is Hoka, which has trail models to use as walking shoes because of their firm support and cushioned sole. Another popular model is Hoka Transport—easy to slip in, perfect for airports, commuter requirements, or a quick errand.

These cross-over models offer you flexibility, and therefore, you do not have to buy separate pairs for different activities. They are comfortable, give you support, and are convenient.

Walking Boots

Lastly, let’s talk about walking boots.

We have to mention these because sometimes people just don’t mesh with either running shoes or walking shoes. But they are perfect for boots.

As you know, boots are the best for outdoor activities like hiking or for those who need extra ankle support.

Some of the top brands to look at would be…

Vasque and Lowa Boots.

Both brands make very good boots. They’re durable, supportive, and ideally suited for uneven terrain.

They’re typically waterproof and made with long-lasting materials like leather or rough-textured fabric.

There are also numerous traditional waterproof shoes made in denim or the same type of material that has waterproofing with some light comfort. They appeal to individuals that need functional footwear but don’t want to compromise on style.

To wrap up…

Understanding the differences between running, walking, and hiking shoes helps you pick footwear that supports your health and fitness goals.

With so many options on the market, it pays to know what features matter most for your activity.

Prioritize comfort, support, and fit over style alone. When you choose the right shoes, every step becomes easier—and more enjoyable.

But sometimes picking the right shoe can be tricky.

That’s why I recommend always having your feet and shoes fitted the right way.

If you’d like to try walking shoes or running shoes and have them fitted properly, scroll down and schedule an appointment in the calendar below.