All of the various types of footwear we wear, from flip-flops to heels to boots, are fun and stylish and make us feel great about how we look. Our feet, however, may have a different opinion about these unsupportive and stifling types of shoes.
Indeed, some of the most common foot problems are caused because we’re wearing shoes that are too tight, too small, or even too loose. Let’s talk about what causes some of these foot problems, and where you can go for custom orthotics and supportive footwear that keep your feet comfortable at all times.
Common Foot Problems Caused by Shoes
The following foot injuries can develop by wearing the wrong shoes:
Corns and Calluses
Corns and calluses are thick buildups of hard skin. Corns are essentially smaller, rounder versions of calluses.
Corns and calluses can cause extreme discomfort as they rub against the inside of your shoes. Your podiatrist can give you supportive shoes and shoe inserts that alleviate pressure on these areas so that you can walk without pain.
Bunions
Wearing tight shoes can squeeze your big toe into the adjacent toes. Over time, this can force the base of the big toe outward to compensate, but the resulting bunion makes your foot wider. Naturally, your feet will cease to fit in your regular shoes.
If you have a bunion that’s causing constant foot pain, your podiatrist can evaluate your bunion and recommend treatment that will help to alleviate the pain and pressure.
Ingrown Toenails
Ill-fitting shoes are also to blame for ingrown toenails. This condition is when the edges of your toenail grow into the adjacent skin, which causes an infection and pain. Instead of trying to fix it yourself and potentially making the infection worse, it is in your best interest to consult a podiatrist.
Plantar Fasciitis
Heel pain is often caused by a condition called plantar fasciitis, which is inflammation of the plantar fascia – the thick band of tissue that extends from your heel to your toes along the bottom of your foot. Shoes that don’t provide adequate arch support can cause plantar fasciitis. A podiatrist can give you customized arch support so that your feet and heels are finally properly supported.
Foot Doctors in San Antonio, TX
Here at The Podiatry Group of South Texas, our healthcare providers can treat foot and ankle conditions and injuries of all kinds. Our skilled and experienced podiatrists understand the pain that occurs with wearing improper footwear, and they know how to craft shoe supports – and custom shoes themselves – to fit your feet perfectly.
We have easily accessible locations across South Texas for your convenience. If you would like to schedule a consultation, contact us today by calling (210) 227-8700 or by filling out our online request form. We look forward to helping you enjoy pain-free feet again!
