A hammertoe develops when a toe bends into a fixed Z-shaped position due to tendon imbalance or long-term pressure from shoes that lack adequate support. Other causes of hammertoe include structural issues like long toe bones or poor joint alignment. The raised portion of the toe can rub inside the shoe and lead to corns, calluses, or skin irritation, and some people feel pain in the ball of the foot when pressure shifts to that area. Diagnosis is made through a foot exam by a podiatrist who also checks nearby joints for signs of arthritis. Treatment includes wearing shoes with a wide toe box, toe pads to reduce rubbing, splints to limit irritation, and orthotics to ease pressure under the forefoot. Surgery may be advised when the toe becomes rigid and painful. If you are experiencing pain caused by a hammertoe, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for an exam and appropriate treatment.

Hammertoes can be a painful condition to live with. For more information, contact David Carmack, DPM of Texas. Our doctor will answer any of your foot- and ankle-related questions.

Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity that occurs due to an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that normally hold the toe straight. It can be caused by the type of shoes you wear, your foot structure, trauma, and certain disease processes.

Symptoms

• Painful and/or difficult toe movement
• Swelling
• Joint stiffness
• Calluses/Corns
• Physical deformity

Risk Factors

• Age – The risk of hammertoe increases with age
• Sex – Women are more likely to have hammertoe compared to men
• Toe Length – You are more likely to develop hammertoe if your second toe is longer than your big toe
• Certain Diseases – Arthritis and diabetes may make you more likely to develop hammertoe

Treatment

If you have hammertoe, you should change into a more comfortable shoe that provides enough room for your toes. Exercises such as picking up marbles may strengthen and stretch your toe muscles. Nevertheless, it is important to seek assistance from a podiatrist in order to determine the severity of your hammertoe and see which treatment option will work best for you.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Marble Falls, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Walking and running shoes may seem similar but they are designed with different traits to support the way your feet move. Running shoes typically provide more cushioning in the heel and forefoot to absorb impact at faster speeds, while walking shoes are more flexible and support the natural roll of the foot during each step. Wearing the wrong type can lead to pain, strain, or injury. A podiatrist can assess your gait, foot type, and activity needs to guide you toward the right footwear and prevent future problems. If you have developed foot pain from wearing the wrong type of exercise shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist. 

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with David Carmack, DPM from Texas. Our doctor can measure your feet to determine what your needs are and help you find an appropriate pair of footwear.

Foot Health: The Differences between Walking & Running Shoes

There are great ways to stay in shape: running and walking are two great exercises to a healthy lifestyle. It is important to know that running shoes and walking shoes are not interchangeable. There is a key difference on how the feet hit the ground when someone is running or walking. This is why one should be aware that a shoe is designed differently for each activity.

You may be asking yourself what the real differences are between walking and running shoes and the answers may shock you.

Differences

Walking doesn’t involve as much stress or impact on the feet as running does. However, this doesn’t mean that you should be any less prepared. When you’re walking, you land on your heels and have your foot roll forward. This rolling motion requires additional support to the feet.

Flexibility – Walking shoes are designed to have soft, flexible soles. This allows the walker to push off easily with each step.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Marble Falls, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.