About Foot Solutions

Foot Solutions of Estero is a recognized leader in specialty footwear, running shoes, comfort shoes and sandals, orthopedic shoes, custom arch supports and inserts, and diabetic footwear. They also specialize in footwear for runners, golfers, tennis players, and other athletes. In addition, Foot Solutions of Estero helps those suffering from foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, and specialize in alleviation of joint pain, back pain, and knee pain.
Foot Solutions of Estero is part of a #1 ranked health and wellness franchise, and locally serves Naples, Bonita Springs, Estero, Fort Myers, and Cape Coral. They carry popular brands such as New Balance,Brooks, Finn Comfort, Naot, Chung Shi, and Joya “the world’s softest shoe”. Foot Solutions of Estero has a Certified Licensed Pedorthist on staff. For more information, visit http://stores.footsolutions.com/estero or call 239-495-8911.

Join us at Foot Solutions Estero for a FREE Basic Yoga & Meditation Class on Wednesday, April 3rd!

 About Foot Solutions

Foot Solutions of Estero is a recognized leader in specialty footwear, running shoes, comfort shoes and sandals, orthopedic shoes, custom arch supports and inserts, and diabetic footwear. They also specialize in footwear for runners, golfers, tennis players, and other athletes. In addition, Foot Solutions of Estero helps those suffering from foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis, and specialize in alleviation of joint pain, back pain, and knee pain.
Foot Solutions of Estero is part of a #1 ranked health and wellness franchise, and locally serves Naples, Bonita Springs, Estero, Fort Myers, and Cape Coral. They carry popular brands such as New Balance, Brooks, Finn Comfort, Naot, Chung Shi, and Joya “the world’s softest shoe”. Foot Solutions of Estero has a Certified Licensed Pedorthist on staff. For more information, visit http://stores.footsolutions.com/estero or call 239-495-8911.

Foot Solutions Estero is hosting a Brooks Running Shoes Trunk Show on Wed., February 6th!  See you there!

As we welcome in 2013, we like to think of all the many things we have to be grateful for!  We also like to think of ways we can share kindnesses with others.  Below are 52 suggestions for Random Acts of Kindness that can be used each week, to help make the world a happier place!

Happy New Year from your friends at Foot Solutions of Estero!

52 Random Acts of Kindness for 2013

1. Give a $5 grocery gift card to the next person in line at the grocery store.

2. Leave a candy bar and a thank you note in your mailbox for the mail carrier.

3. Plug parking meters around town with extra time.

4. Go grocery shopping for the sole purpose of putting your purchases in the “Food for Families” box in the entryway of the store.

5. Hand out Starbucks gift cards to people who could use a pick-me-up.

6. Take leftover food from a party to a local shelter.

7. Leave a fancy new pen for your restaurant server—along with a generous tip!

8. Place a giant pile of pennies by a fountain and leave a note about making wishes.

9. Go through your personal “library” and donate books you no longer need. Better yet, leave one of your favorites in a café for someone else to enjoy!

10. When visiting the library, pay the past due library fees for five random people.

11. Pay the tab for the next person in line at a drive thru.

12. Give stuffed animals to the police or fire departments for kids going through tough situations.

13. Leave $1 bills in random toy bins in the dollar section of the store.

14. Call an animal shelter to find out what donations they need. Make a contribution and visit animals.

15.  On a rainy day, buy a few umbrellas and give them to those who don’t have one and are getting wet.

16. Give a $5 gift card to the grocery checker to give to someone who needs it later.

17. Give a $5 gift card to the checkout person—just because.

18. Tape quarters to toy machines for the next kids who come along.

19. Buy tickets for the couple in line behind you at the movie theater.

20. Watch for a random good deed and reward the person with a $5 bill or a candy bar.

21. Hide Easter eggs with prizes in them all over a local playground with a bucket and note that says “Have an egg hunt—please enjoy this random act of kindness!”

22. Leave diapers and wipes on a changing table in a public bathroom.

23. Tape a bag of microwave popcorn onto a Red Box so the next patron can enjoy popcorn while they watch their movie.

24. Leave laundry detergent and coins at the Laundromat.

25. Leave boxes of sidewalk chalk on a playground for kids to find.

26. Tape a lottery ticket on the inside of a public restroom stall with a note that says “Is today your lucky day?”

27. Deliver handmade valentines to a nursing home.

28. Take get well balloons to the hospital and leave with nurse for someone who is alone.

29. Pay the dinner tab for a soldier in uniform and his/her family.

30. Create an art supply box for children at a shelter that includes glue sticks, paper, scissors, stickers and other goodies.

31. Donate blood.

32. Door holding patrol: Find a busy place and open doors for others for 15 minutes.

33. Ask your relatives to bring canned goods to a family dinner and have your own family sponsored food drive.

34. Prepare and serve lunch at shelter—anytime of year.

35. Offer to take back shopping carts for others at the grocery store.

36. Organize a road side or park trash pick-up day with friends or family.

37. Create small “Thank you for serving me!” baggies for bank tellers, cashiers, servers, etc.—include wrapped chocolates and a note thanking them for their service.

38. Send handwritten cards to officers at local police station… signed, a thankful citizen.

39. Take coloring books and crayons to the family waiting room of the labor and delivery floor of the hospital for soon-to-be big brothers and sisters.

40. Stuff large Ziploc “Blessing Bags” with hygiene products, a snack (like jerky or trail mix) and a bottle of water to keep in the car for those times when you come across someone in need.

41. Deliver stuffed animals to the children’s floor of the hospital.

42. During the holidays, buy a hot cocoa or latte for Salvation Army bell ringers.

43. Send of box of mittens and hats to a school in need.

44. Pass out candy and spread cheer to folks waiting in line at the post office to mail their holiday cards in December or taxes in April.

45. Pay the highway toll for the car behind you.

46. Visit and read to hospice patients.

47. Set up a trick-or-treating station at a nursing home—residents love to see the kids in costume!

48. Hand out bottled water or Gatorade to construction workers on a hot day.

49. Make a meal and take it to new parents or someone recovering from surgery.

50. Send flowers to someone who has made an impact on your life “just because.”

51. Be generous with compliments—find good qualities in random people you see throughout the day and let them know you appreciate them.

52. Renew an old friendship. Pick up the phone, drop by their house or write a letter to let them know you care!

We hope you found this inspiring, thank you for remembering to pay it forward and spread the joy.  Wishing you a happy and prosperous 2013!  ~ Your Friends at Foot Solutions Estero

You may have survived Black Friday, but if you’re like most, the “fun” is not over yet. You still have those last minute, lingering gifts to shop for.  Are you ready to brave the crowds at the mall and seasonal traffic? (Is it even humanly possible to be “ready” for that?) To help you avoid too much stress on your body and mental health, we are offering a few “Healthy Holiday Shopping Tips”.  Hopefully, with these suggestions, you can preserve your health, your sanity and maybe even a little more of your wallet.

1. Get Organized

Even if you have already started your holiday shopping, make an updated list.  Include a list of what you have bought each person, so you know exactly how many more items you need, (or dollars you have to spend).  Include a space to write down what else you plan to purchase. Getting organized is the first step to your mental well being.  If you can start off feeling calm and clear about what you need, it will be much easier to tackle the crowds.

2. Online Shopping

If you are one of those people that like to touch everything when you’re shopping, make sure you have some hand sanitizer handy.  This is one of the culprits of colds around the holidays.  An easy solution to this is online shopping. Obviously, we don’t expect you to become a hermit and forego the live shopping experience completely.  But, it may not be a bad idea for some of your gifts (especially for relatives who you will need to ship to anyway.)  Another benefit to internet shopping is the stress reduction of shopping in the peace of your own home, versus the pressure of the crowds and lines.  Of course, if you are a sucker for shopping for tangible gifts, instead of trusting the online version, you can still benefit from the internet. Use it to research the items you are considering, and save time when you hit the stores.

3. Don’t Shop Hungry

Pack a bottled water or juice and a small, healthy snack before you head out.  This will aid in keeping your energy up, your thoughts clear, and your body hydrated and fueled while shopping.  If you’re shopping through a meal time, avoid the temptation of the fried foods at the food court, and look for healthier options.  Or, if you don’t have time to stop, even packing a Ziploc of dried fruits and nuts or a small sandwich will keep your energy up and your stress level down.

4. Wear the Right Shoes

Of course, at Foot Solutions Estero, we feel this is the MOST important tip for shopping!  Before you head out the door, make sure you’re choosing shoes that will serve you well in the “shopping battle”.   Nothing is worse than standing in long lines or walking laps around the mall with aching feet.  Athletic shoes with plenty of support are the best choice. (Consider New Balance or Brooks running shoes that are lightweight, but still offer support.)

If you are shopping after work and still in dressier attire, consider slipping on a pair of sandals that won’t clash with your outfit, but will still provide comfort and support for your feet.  Naot, Aravon, and Finn Comfort are all great options for this!  We know that ladies aren’t the only ones shopping during the holidays.  These and other brands all have great options for men’s shoes as well, to make holiday shopping more comfortable.

5. Deploy the Troops 

It’s o.k. to ask for help!  If you don’t have enough time to devote a day to shopping, outsource help from other family members. If they will be near the mall, request that they pick an item or two up for you while they are there. No need to duplicate your efforts and add to the traffic.

6. Keep it Simple

Don’t worry if you can’t go all out this year.  Your friends and family will love you just the same, whether you splurge on an over-the-top gift or give them something that’s thoughtful or homemade. Get creative, and think about something that is unique to that person. Do it yourself gifts allow you explore your creative talents, while avoiding the crowds.

7. Wrap it Up and Have Fun

Your shopping is finally complete!  But, it isn’t over yet.  There’s still the task of wrapping.  However, instead of looking at wrapping as a chore, try to change your perspective.  It can be something to look forward to!  Enjoy some “you” time, with your favorite wine, a good movie, or some festive music, and have fun wrapping the fruits of your labor!  You can also be creative with wrapping.  For example, print funny family photos onto standard paper, and piece the sheets of paper together to wrap the gift.  Or, use pages from a magazine that person would enjoy.

8. Leave Christmas Eve to Santa

If you’ve ever waited until Christmas Eve to get those last minute gifts or wrapping supplies, then we don’t even need to tell you this because you’ve experienced the chaos.  Don’t make the mistake of thinking “no one else will be this last minute” and head to the mall on the day before Christmas.  On the contrary.  LOT’S of people are that last minute.   You will definitely be pushing through crowds, choosing from picked over shelves, and may end up buying items you don’t really want to out of desperation. The earlier you can complete your shopping, the better.

If you need creative gift ideas, consider giving someone the gift of “comfort”!  Stop into Foot Solutions Estero and take advantage of our gift certificate special…a FREE $25 gift certificate with the purchase of a $100 certificate.  Call (239)495-8911 for details or just stop in anytime during store hours! 

The holidays are just around the corner.  But, now it’s time to take a quick break from shopping and focus on YOU!

Are you worried about shedding those extra pounds after the 1st of the year?  We understand how life can get in the way of proper diet and exercise. We know how easy it is to put off a weight loss regimen until things “slow down”.  But, how long have you been saying that?  There is never time for new things until we MAKE the time, and make it a priority.  Well, we’re here to help you make getting in shape just a little bit higher of a priority.  How?  By tempting you with an iPad Mini, $200, and other cool prizes to give you the little extra push you need to get started!

 Just come into Foot Solutions Estero and sign up within the NEXT 2 WEEKS. The first weigh-in will be held January 1-6th!

Stop in, email estero@footsolutions.com, or call us at (239) 495-8911 for details!

 Thank you to all who helped to make our first annual “Footloose & Fancy Free 5K” such a success!  Below is the press release with the event details, as well as the link to view event photos

CLICK HERE TO VIEW  MORE EVENT PHOTOS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

“Footloose & Fancy Free 5K” an Overwhelming Success!  Over 300 Pairs of Shoes Collected for Soles4Souls

Summary:      The 1^st Annual “Foot Solutions of Estero – Footloose & Fancy Free 5K” held Saturday, Nov. 10^th at Koreshan State Park was an overwhelming success.  More than 150 people participated in the run, and over 300 shoes were collected for the charity “Soles4Souls”.

November 16, 2012 – Estero, FL     Foot Solutions of Estero held its first annual “Footloose & Fancy Free 5K” at Koreshan State Park last Saturday, November 10^th.  More than 170 people came out to participate in the event, and run or walk through the beautiful, winding trails of the park.   Participants were also asked to bring a pair of gently used shoes to be donated to the non-profit organization “Soles4Soles”, or to be recycled for materials by “Shoes for the Cure”.    More than 300 pairs of shoes were collected (filling an entire truck bed!)

“We would like to thank everyone who participated in this event, and helped to make it such an overwhelming success!”  said Chris Cole, Owner, Foot Solutions Estero.  “We would also like to extend a huge thanks to our event sponsors and those who volunteered their time to help out prior to and the day of the event.”

First Watch restaurant was the food sponsor for the run, providing coffee, juice, and an assortment of muffins and fruit.  A massage therapist from Chiropractic Health of SWFL (Dr. Merlo) was on hand providing free shoulder massages to participants, and InMotion gym was passing out free samples of Advocare “Spark” energy drink. Justin Liles provided the artwork for the t-shirts and event photos were taken by Sue Townsend.  Other local sponsors included The Laser Lounge Spa, Dance Arts by Maria, Dr. Weaver -Joint Replacement Institute, Bonita Community Health Center, and Florida Blue.

“We are thrilled with the success of this first run,” added event Co-Organizer, Julie Digby.  “It’s so rewarding to see people in the community come together to have fun and support events such as this.  In addition, they are helping out worthy organizations such as Soles4Souls with the donation of their shoes.  We have received a lot of positive feedback, and are already in the preliminary planning stages for next year’s event, which promises to be an even bigger success.”

Overall winners of the race in the male and female categories were Torrin Brauch (with a finish time of 18:46) for male and Alexa Gemma (with a finish time of 21:12) for females.  1^st, 2^nd, and 3^rd place winners for male and female in each age category were awarded medals at the post-race ceremony.  Results for all winners are posted on www.Active.com   (direct link: http://results.active.com/events/foot-solutions-estero-footloose-fancy-free-5k-run-walk )

The shoes collected at the Footloose & Fancy Free 5K will go to help Soles4Souls, and their mission to help victims of abject suffering.  With 1 in 4 adults in the world living on less than one dollar a day, basic necessities like shoes are not readily available.  A pair of shoes can protect an individual’s feet from cuts and infection that can be life threatening if untreated. Through collection of used shoes, the organization supports micro-business efforts to eradicate poverty. Currently, Soles4Souls is responding to the needs of Hurricane Sandy victims, providing relief efforts and donating shoes to families that have been affected by this natural disaster.

Foot Solutions Estero is still accepting donations of gently used shoes at their Estero location, next to Publix in the Corkscrew Village Plaza on the corner of U.S.41 and Corkscrew Rd.  For more information, call (239) 495-8911 or e-mail estero@footsolutions.com .

 About Foot Solutions

Foot Solutions of Estero is part of a worldwide company with more than 240 franchise locations.  They are devoted to helping their clients achieve better health through their feet and are a recognized leader in specialty footwear, walking/running shoes, orthopedic shoes, custom arch supports and inserts, and footwear for diabetics and those suffering from foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis. They also specialize in alleviation of joint pain, and custom footwear for runners and golfers.  Foot Solutions is the world’s largest and No.1 ranked health and wellness franchise.  For more information about Foot Solutions of Estero, visit www.footsolutions.com/estero or call 239-495-8911.

The Footlooose & Fancy Free 5K collected over 300 pairs of shoes to be donated to charity.

Pictured (left to right):  Julie Digby, Danielle Cole, Chris Cole, Tyler Tuckett, Shaun Nave

Foot Solutions of Estero is about so much more than just shoes.  We want to help you feel good from head to toe!  (Starting with your toes, of course!)  Our footwear is designed to, not only make your feet as comfortable and pain free as possible, but also alleviate joint pain and back pain.  Now, we’re providing you with another way to keep your feet feeling good, and extend the benefits to all parts of your body.

You can now enjoy “Reflexology”, administered by a Certified Licensed Reflexologist at our Foot Solutions Estero store!

What is reflexology?

Reflexology is a form of bodywork that focuses primarily on the feet.   It promotes relaxation, improves circulation, reduces pain, soothes tired feet, and encourages overall healing.   Reflexology is often used to to help with:

• Stress and stress-related conditions
• Tension headaches
• Digestive disorders
• Arthritis
• Insomnia
• Hormonal imbalances
• Sports injuries
• Menstrual disorders, such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
• Digestive problems, such as constipation
• Back pain

The theory behind reflexology is that there are “reflex” areas on the feet and hands that correspond to specific organs, glands, and other parts of the body. For example:

• The tips of the toes reflect the head
• The ball of the foot reflects the heart and chest
• The arch of the foot reflects the liver, pancreas and kidney
• Towards the heel are the lower back and intestines

Does it hurt? Does it Tickle?

Most people find reflexology to be very relaxing. If you’re ticklish, don’t worry.  The reflexologist applies firm pressure to your feet, so it does not usually tickle.

Reflexology shouldn’t be painful, however some areas may be tender or sore.   Make sure you tell the reflexologist if you feel discomfort, and she will work within your comfort zone.

About our Reflexologist at Foot Solutions Estero

Our reflexologist at Foot Solutions of Estero is Diane Ward.  Diane has been practicing reflexology since 1989.  She recently located to the west coast of Florida, from the  Miami/Ft.lauderdale area.  Prior to her time on the East coast of Florida, Diane lived and worked in Manhatten for many years, practicing reflexology, along with other wellness therapies.  Although she is now a full time resident of Southwest Florida, Diane continues to commute monthly to see clients  in New York City, Westchester, and the New jersey area.

Diane draws much of her experience from her diverse background.  She worked for TWA airlines for 20 years and spent a lot of time in various countries.  During this time, she had the opportunity to get  an up close and personal look at how others lived and cared for themselves.  She had her first introduction to reflexology in a small resort town of Mijas  Spain, where she lived for a year.  During this time, she took lessons from the European therapists that worked at the 5-star Mijas hotel, which was next to her apartment. When she returned to live in New York,  she studied with the Institute of Reflexology and received her Certification.  Diane continued working with one of the leading reflexologist for many years.  In 1989, they opened one of the first day spas  to offer wellness therapies.

Diane now brings her expertise in the field of reflexology to you at Foot Solutions of Estero!   For more information, or to make an appointment, call (239)495-8911 or email estero@footsolutions.com

Are you looking for natural, healthy ways to have more energy and just start feeling better overall?

Chris Cole, owner of Foot Solutions Estero, has recently launched a new website with an amazing line of vitamins and supplements that will help you!  Do yourself a favor, and take a few minutes to check out  ”FeelingGoodVitamins.com“.

The vitamins and supplements featured on the site promise to help you :

• Manage your weight or lose weight
• Feel vibrant and full of energy
• Enhance your sports performance
• Improve your overall health and wellness
• Improve your skin
• Have relief from joint pain

5K Logo Design Contest Rules

Alright…we know you’re just itching to tap into your creative side!  Well, we have the perfect opportunity for you!

We are holding a “Logo Design Contest” for our upcoming “Footloose & Fancy Free 5K” Run/Walk at Koreshan State Park! (See below for event details)  We are looking for a fun and creative logo that incorporates the theme of the run.

If you would like to incorporate the Foot Solutions or Soles4Soles logos (this is not required), just email us at estero@footsolutions.com to request them and we can email you an electronic version.

The creator of the chosen design will receive a $50 Gift Certificate for NEW SHOES at Foot Solutions Estero!  In addition, YOUR logo design will be on the front of the 5K t-shirts that will be given to all participants.  It will also appear on marketing material and in newspaper advertising!  (So, in other words…you’ll be famous!)

The deadline for submissions is Friday, September 21st!  Logo designs should be emailed to Estero@footsolutions.com 

Your design may be created in any type of program, or can even be hand sketched and scanned.  All that we ask is that you submit it to us in a jpeg file format.  (If your design is chosen, you will need to have a high-resolution version available.)  Please include the following:

• Your first/last Name
• Phone number
• Email
• Design attached as a jpeg file

Email design submissions or any questions about the contest should be directed to Estero@footsolutions.com.  You may also call Julie at (239) 849-2649 with questions.  You will be notified by the end of September if your design has been chosen as the winner!  Good Luck!!