3 Causes of Deformed Feet

Millions of Americans suffer from deformed feet. Deformed feet can be painful and this condition can make it challenging to walk. Because of the structural build of the human body, deformed feet can also lead to secondary issues that may radiate throughout the body. Surprisingly, deformed feet can be a cause of migraine headaches, backaches and neck pain. So what causes deformed feet? There are several possible causes.

1. Ill-Fitting Shoes

You may have perfectly formed feet, but if you make a habit of wearing ill-fitting shoes your feet could become deformed over time. There is a tremendous amount of pressure put on your feet. This pressure can push your feet into your shoes. If there isn’t sufficient space, the feet end up being pushed out of shape. Over time, this deformity can become permanent. An example of how ill-fitting shoes can cause deformed feet to include hammertoe. This condition consists of one or more toes that are permanently bent as if you were bending your toes. The difference is that you cannot unbend it. Hammertoe in women is frequently caused by wearing high heels, which put all the weight of the foot forward into the toe of the shoe. The toe bends because it’s being pushed into the front of the shoe by the weight coming from the back. Hammertoe is very painful because the top knuckle of the toe is now creating friction with the top surface of the shoe. Even when you stop wearing high heels, the hammertoe may persist unless you visit a podiatrist for treatment.

2. Intense Sports Play

One of the lesser-known causes of deformed feet has to do with professional sports players or athletes. Sports that include a high amount of foot interaction with a hard surface can lead to deformed feet. Examples of sports that can cause this include football and soccer. These professional athletes frequently develop certain deformities that can lead to painful conditions unless treated.

3. Birth Defects

Many people are born with deformed feet. This is sometimes caused by a genetic condition or another cause. In cases like this, surgical treatment may be needed so that the individual can walk normally and wear traditional footwear.

There are many treatment options available for deformed feet. If you have this condition, book an appointment with a podiatrist for treatment recommendations.