Most Common Foot Issues
There are many foot conditions that may cause someone to shop for orthopedic shoes. The most common issues the people contact our Personal Fitting Specialists are: Bunions, Hammertoes, Swelling, and Extra Width feet.
Two of the most common issues that cause foot pain are bunions and hammertoes. Both of these issues affect the forefront of the foot. While each of these problems has its own characteristics, both require certain shoe profiles to find some relief and comfort.
Bunions
Bunions are one of the most common foot problems causing severe pain. A bunion is a pronounced bump on the side of the foot, most frequently on the big toe joint. The protrusion is caused by a bone protruding toward the inside of the foot. Bunions can also form on the outside of the foot, at the joint of the smallest toe.
Bunions are more common in women than in men, generally due to the tight, narrow dress shoes that women tend to wear. By wearing shoes with a constrictive toe box, the foot can begin to form to the shape of the shoe, leading to painful bunions.
The first sign of a bunion is a red spot on the joint, caused by footwear rubbing and pressing against the area. If left unattended, a callous will form on the joint, causing further pain and damage. That red spot is the first sign of an issue, and should be addressed immediately by choosing a shoe designed specifically for bunions.
To relieve the pain caused by bunions, look for shoes with a wide and/or deep toe box to allow room for the affected joint. A broad forepart with a flexible joint area will help keep pressure off of the inflamed area.
Many orthopedic shoes designed for those with bunions will feature a stretch mesh or lycra material on the side joints, to help relieve the pressure and keep from worsening the condition.
ICS Shoes provides many shoes for both men and women who suffer from bunions. The shoe on the left is the
Dr Comfort Annie. Notice the Upper part of this shoe is made of Lycra, a stretch fabric. Other features of shoes to accommodate Bunions include:
- Sides of the shoe Upper is made of Lycra or Mesh Fabric
- Seamless linings inside the shoe to decrease friction
- Multiple Widths to provide a Comfortable, non-binding fit
- Extra Depth for Orthotics
Many types of shoes have been designed to address Bunions including: Dress, Casual, Athletic, Sandals, Slippers, and Boots.
Hammertoes
Hammertoes are characterized as a toe that is pulled back, or contracted, at the middle joint in the toe. The toe’s joints curl downward as tendons and ligaments tighten. This condition leads to severe pressure and pain, especially on the tops of the toes as they rub against the Upper part of the shoe. Hammertoes usually affect the smaller toes.
Hammertoe is caused by a muscle imbalance which causes the tendons and ligaments to tighten up and pull the toe in and down. Arthritis can lead to hammertoes, as can wearing ill-fitting or tight shoes that constrict the forefront of the foot.
One of the most important treatments for this condition is changing the type of footwear.
Those suffering from hammertoe require a high, broad toebox. Stretch lycra or mesh across the top of the shoe will help prevent painful corns on top of the toes. Orthopedic shoes that feature double depth and dual footbeds are beneficial to help to customize fit and make room for the misshapen toes, decreasing friction and rubbing. Since hammertoes can’t be corrected without surgery, it’s important to accommodate the feet and toes with the proper fitting shoes.
ICS Shoes offers many shoes for both men and women who suffer from hammertoes. The shoe on the left is the
Apex P7000M - For Men or
For Women.
Notice the Upper part of this shoe is made of Lycra, a stretch fabric. Other features of shoes to accommodate Hammertoes include:
- Top of the shoe Upper is made of Lycra or Mesh Fabric
- Seamless linings inside the shoe to decrease friction
- Multiple Widths to provide a Comfortable, non-binding fit
- Extra Depth for Orthotics
Many types of shoes have been designed to address Hammertoes including: Dress, Casual, Athletic, Sandals, Slippers, and Boots.
Speaking of proper footwear,
ICS Shoe Personal Fitting Specialists can help you find the Perfect Fitting Shoe to eliminate pain and discomfort from Bunions or Hammertoes. Taking care of your feet every day starts with the perfect fitting shoe.
Let us help you find just the right shoe for your lifestyle. Contact Your Personal Fitting Specialist Today - Your Feet Will Thank You!
(877) 553-5544 or
Contact Us by eMail.