Few parts of our body are treated as badly as your feet. When we shove them into ill-fitted shoes and high heels, it is little wonder why long hours in those conditions can cause issues. And while many of us push through the pain or try to “make it work”, that can lead to more problems and make things worse in the long term. Toe deformities are the result of long term abuse on your feet and can range from uncomfortable to limiting your range of motion and making it difficult or impossible to wear shoes.
Figuring Out the Problem
Bunions
The most common toe problem is a bunion (sometimes called hallux valgus). A bunion is a structural deformity of the bones, which is usually the result of shoes that are too tight. The big toe becomes angled towards the second toe and creates a bony bulge at the joint of the big toe. The same issue can also happen to the little toe at the fifth toe joint. In many cases, bunions can be tolerated and if you have symptoms but you are not experiencing foot pain, your doctor will probably suggest that you just leave it be. Of course, you will still want to replace your footwear, since that is what probably caused to problem in the first place. The most comfortable shoes for people suffering from a bunion will have broad toe boxes.
Hammer Toe
In the case of hammer toes, the toe is bent at the middle joint leading to a curling of the toe resembling a hammer. Hammer toe is commonly seen in the second toe, but can affect other toes as well. People with bunions can often end up with hammer toes as well because they both involve a bony outgrowth along joints of the big toe.
Mallet Toe
This is similar to hammer toe except that the joint involved is the upper joint instead of the middle one, which gives the toe a mallet-like appearance at the end of the toe.
Claw Toe
Claw toes are an upward bending of the toe joint at the ball of the foot, followed by the toe bending downward in a claw-like fashion, at the middle join and sometimes end joint. They can occur in any toe except the big toe, and can cause ball of foot pain or pain in the toes while walking or standing for long periods of time.
"People with bunions can often end up with hammer toes as well because they both involve a bony outgrowth along joints of the big toe."
Finding a Solution with KURU Shoes
Initially, toe deformities are treated by simple, non-invasive measures to restore or maintain regular walking ability and relieve foot pain. Those treatments include wearing specially designed shoes with supportive cushions or pads and a broad toe box areas to prevent skin irritation or worsening of the toes condition. You must start by avoiding any tight, narrow, or high heeled shoes. Your doctor may recommend splints or tape to reposition the toes, and practicing regular toe exercises and stretches to improve range of motion. In some extreme cases, surgery may be recommended, but you should try more mild treatments first.
"Treatments include wearing specially designed shoes with supportive cushions or pads and a broad toe box areas to prevent skin irritation or worsening of the toes condition. You must start by avoiding any tight, narrow, or high heeled shoes."
Here are two of our favorite picks for shoes that can support your recovery if you are having symptoms of a toe deformity:
KINETIC
KINETIC is superlight casual shoe is ideal from walking and light exercise. It comes lined with KURUKLOUD™ Foam midsole which delivers phenomenal lightness, unprecedented cushioning and optimized energy return during push-off. With the custom fit that comes from a “self-molding” Superior Insole™ , you can plan on an excellent fit and superior comfort.
QUANTUM
If you are dealing with toe problems such as bunions and hammertoes, the QUANTUM has the perfect feature for you! The broad toe box in this style is a medium width that will accommodate the need for extra space in the forefoot area and will not crowd your toes. Breathable mesh uppers, ULTIMATE INSOLES™ , secure laces, and excellent traction outsoles means that this shoe is ready to go. You can feel the confidence in your stride with the QUANTUM because you know that your foot is feeling pampered and secure.
