The right shoes can make a major difference in comfort and injury prevention. Running shoes are designed with enhanced cushioning for impact, stability features such as medial posts, and flex grooves in the outsole for natural motion. They are also lightweight to reduce fatigue during longer runs. Walking shoes provide moderate cushioning for shock absorption, promote a healthy foot strike, and offer increased flexibility in the forefoot for smooth steps. Breathability keeps feet comfortable during daily activity. A podiatrist can assess your foot structure and gait to recommend the best shoe for your needs. If you have foot pain from wearing the wrong shoes, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can treat various foot conditions and guide you on the best shoes to wear for the activities you participate in.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with one of our podiatrists from Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. Our doctors 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 offices located in Miami, North Miami Beach, Miami Beach, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

If you are overweight, or wear high heeled/narrow-toed shoes, you may be more at risk for developing Morton’s Neuroma. Morton’s Neuroma is a non-cancerous thickening of the nerve between toes, usually the 3rd and 4th toes, which causes tingling, burning, inflammation and irritation. As the thickened nerve expands, it becomes further irritated by the surrounding bones and ligaments it comes in contact with. Morton’s Neuroma—also known as interdigital neuroma, intermetatarsal neuroma, and forefoot neuroma—typically occurs in only one foot and is more common in women than men. If you experience pain or feel as if a pebble is stuck in the ball of your foot, contact a podiatrist for proper treatment.

Morton’s neuroma is a very uncomfortable condition to live with. If you think you have Morton’s neuroma, contact one of our podiatrists of Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. Our doctors will attend to all of your foot care needs and answer any of your related questions.  

Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful foot condition that commonly affects the areas between the second and third or third and fourth toe, although other areas of the foot are also susceptible. Morton’s neuroma is caused by an inflamed nerve in the foot that is being squeezed and aggravated by surrounding bones.

What Increases the Chances of Having Morton’s Neuroma?

• Ill-fitting high heels or shoes that add pressure to the toe or foot
• Jogging, running or any sport that involves constant impact to the foot
• Flat feet, bunions, and any other foot deformities

Morton’s neuroma is a very treatable condition. Orthotics and shoe inserts can often be used to alleviate the pain on the forefront of the feet. In more severe cases, corticosteroids can also be prescribed. In order to figure out the best treatment for your neuroma, it’s recommended to seek the care of a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition and provide different treatment options.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Miami, North Miami Beach, Miami Beach, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the immune system to mistakenly attack healthy joints, often affecting the small joints of the feet. This condition leads to inflammation that can cause swelling, warmth, redness, and stiffness, making walking and daily activities difficult. Risk factors include genetics, age, smoking, and being female. Over time, rheumatoid arthritis can damage joints, change foot shape, and create long-lasting pain. A podiatrist can help by providing specialized care to reduce discomfort, improve mobility, and recommend supportive footwear or orthotics. Do not let rheumatoid arthritis take control of your feet. If you have symptoms of this uncomfortable condition, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist who can offer effective relief and management tips. 

Because RA affects more than just your joints, including the joints in your feet and ankles, it is important to seek early diagnosis from your podiatrist if you feel like the pain in your feet might be caused by RA. For more information, contact one of our podiatrists of Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. Our doctors will assist you with all of your podiatric concerns.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occur, causing severe pain and immobility.

Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet

Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.

Symptoms

• Swelling and pain in the feet
• Stiffness in the feet
• Pain on the ball or sole of feet
• Joint shift and deformation

Diagnosis

Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Miami, North Miami Beach, Miami Beach, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ingrown toenail can cause repeated discomfort, swelling, and even infection if it continues to grow improperly into the surrounding skin. While temporary relief may be found with soaks or trimming, these methods rarely provide lasting results. For individuals dealing with persistent pain, a more definitive treatment is available. A podiatrist can perform a minor procedure that removes the part of the nail responsible for the problem. In many cases, the nail root is treated so the edge will not grow back. This approach prevents the cycle of recurring irritation and allows the surrounding skin to heal completely. The procedure is usually quick, performed in the office, and recovery is often easier than expected. If you are struggling with repeated ingrown toenails, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist to discuss a permanent solution.

Ingrown toenails may initially present themselves as a minor discomfort, but they may progress into an infection in the skin without proper treatment. For more information about ingrown toenails, contact one of our podiatrists of Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are caused when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh surrounding it. They often result in redness, swelling, pain, and in some cases, infection. This condition typically affects the big toe and may recur if it is not treated properly.

Causes

• Improper toenail trimming
• Genetics
• Improper shoe fitting
• Injury from pedicures or nail picking
• Abnormal gait
• Poor hygiene

You are more likely to develop an ingrown toenail if you are obese, have diabetes, arthritis, or have any fungal infection in your nails. Additionally, people who have foot or toe deformities are at a higher risk of developing an ingrown toenail.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of ingrown toenails are redness, swelling, and pain. In rare cases, there may be a yellowish drainage coming from the nail.

Treatment

Ignoring an ingrown toenail can have serious complications. Infections of the nail border can progress to a deeper soft-tissue infection, which can then turn into a bone infection. You should always speak with your podiatrist if you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Miami, North Miami Beach, Miami Beach, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A broken foot is a serious injury that can result from trauma such as a fall, car accident, or sudden impact during sports or daily activities. Symptoms include immediate pain, swelling, difficulty walking, and sometimes a visible deformity. The area may feel tender, appear misshapen, or become discolored. In some cases, people may mistake a fracture for a sprain, which is why accurate diagnosis is essential. A podiatrist can evaluate the injury using a physical exam and imaging, such as X-rays, to determine the severity and location of the break. Treatment includes immobilization with a cast or boot, crutches, or in more complex cases, surgical intervention. Healing time typically ranges from six to eight weeks, depending on the type of fracture and the patient’s overall health. Early treatment can prevent complications and promote faster recovery. If you suspect a foot fracture, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a podiatrist for proper care.

A broken foot requires immediate medical attention and treatment. If you need your feet checked, contact one of our podiatrists from Barry University Foot and Ankle Institute. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Broken Foot Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A broken foot is caused by one of the bones in the foot typically breaking when bended, crushed, or stretched beyond its natural capabilities. Usually the location of the fracture indicates how the break occurred, whether it was through an object, fall, or any other type of injury. 

Common Symptoms of Broken Feet:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Redness
• Swelling
• Blue in color
• Numbness
• Cold
• Misshapen
• Cuts
• Deformities

Those that suspect they have a broken foot shoot seek urgent medical attention where a medical professional could diagnose the severity.

Treatment for broken bones varies depending on the cause, severity and location. Some will require the use of splints, casts or crutches while others could even involve surgery to repair the broken bones. Personal care includes the use of ice and keeping the foot stabilized and elevated.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Miami, North Miami Beach, Miami Beach, and Tamarac, FL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.