Dr. Anne Sharkey

11/04/2025

Let’s talk about bunions 👣

They’re one of the most common forefoot deformities — and not just from “bad shoes.”

Bunions (hallux valgus) develop when the big toe joint gradually shifts out of alignment. Once that bony change happens, it can’t be reversed without surgery — but the good news is you can slow progression and manage discomfort.

Supportive footwear with a wide toe box, proper inserts, and attention to foot mechanics make a huge difference.

Early intervention matters!

✨ Save this post to reference later and tag a friend who’s always complaining about their bunion pain!

11/04/2025

Boots made for real life 👣
From community volunteer days to yard work and weekend hikes — these Step-In Boots keep up with it all.
I love the roomy toe box, supportive midfoot, flexible forefoot, and of course — the effortless step-in design.

👉 I’m wearing the London AT Mid, and Tom’s wearing the Wasatch Mid — both linked on my (link in bio & stories).

11/01/2025

On-my-feet all day — from podiatry patients to salon walkthroughs — and this shoe goes the distance.

I’m loving the Walk Roam Loafer: sleek enough for the clinic, supportive enough for the work, and bold enough for my style.

Why I recommend it:
• Built-in VioMotion arch + heel support for stability. 
• Shock-absorbing cushioning + flexible forefoot = comfort while I walk, stand, teach, and treat. 
• Polished loafer silhouette that doesn’t scream “orthopedic” but supports your foot health anyways.

If you’re a clinician, a beauty-pro, a mom, or simply someone who’s standing and moving all day — you deserve shoes that keep up.

10/30/2025

Your Achilles tendon does a lot of heavy lifting — literally! 💪

It’s what connects your calf to your heel and helps power every step, jump, and sprint.

But because it works so hard, it’s also prone to irritation and injury.

✅ Keep it healthy with:
• Daily calf stretches
• Gradual training increases
• Supportive footwear

👣 A little care goes a long way toward preventing Achilles tendinitis and tears.

10/30/2025

When swelling in the lower legs leaves an indentation after gentle pressure, it’s known as pitting edema — a sign of excess fluid in the tissues.

This can be linked to heart, kidney, or liver conditions, venous disease, or even standing or sitting for long periods.

If you notice swelling that persists or worsens, it’s important to have it evaluated to uncover the cause.

👣

10/28/2025

Ever finish a race only to find your toenail black, blistered, or ready to fall off? 😬

This is called runner’s toe—caused by repetitive trauma to the nail from shoes that are too tight, long runs, or downhill terrain. The pressure creates fluid/bleeding under the nail and can eventually cause it to lift or fall off completely.

✅ Prevention tips:
• Keep toenails trimmed straight across
• Choose shoes with at least a thumb’s width of space at the end
• Lace shoes properly to prevent sliding forward
• Swap damp socks for moisture-wicking ones

The nail will regrow, but it can take up to 12 months.

🏃‍♀️Have you ever lost a toenail after a race? Share your experience below 👇

10/24/2025

Wrestling with your compression socks in the morning? You’re not alone. Compression socks are incredibly effective for managing swelling, varicose veins, circulation issues, and everyday leg fatigue — but only if they’re applied correctly.

Here’s the simplest way to get them on without the struggle:

1️⃣ Turn the sock inside out to the heel
2️⃣ Slide your foot in until your heel fits the heel pocket
3️⃣ Gently roll the sock up your leg — don’t pull or yank
4️⃣ Smooth out wrinkles for even compression

🩺 Pro tip: Put them on first thing in the morning, before swelling sets in.

Save this to make your mornings easier.

Tag someone who needs this 👇

10/21/2025

👣 Did you know what you wear on your feet at home can impact your overall foot and joint health?

Hard floors may look beautiful—but they’re tough on your feet! Supportive slippers help absorb shock, reduce strain, and keep your body properly aligned, even when you’re relaxing.

In my latest blog post, I’m sharing the science behind why support starts at home, what to look for in a healthy slipper, and a closer look at three of my favorite Vionic styles — the Snuggle, Izzy, and Relax II — each designed with podiatrist-approved Vio Motion™ Technology for total comfort and alignment.

🩰 Cozy. ☁️ Supportive. 🌿 Healthy.
Your feet will thank you.

Read the full post here 👉 https://www.solelypodiatry.com/blog/the-case-for-indoor-slippers-why-support-starts-at-home

Discover how Vionic’s podiatrist-designed slippers—Snuggle, Izzy, and Relax II—combine comfort and support with Vio Motion™ Technology to keep your feet healthy at home.