Many people wonder whether running shoes are suitable for walking, and the answer depends on impact-biomechanics and shoe design. Walking and running place different forces on the feet, which is why footwear is designed differently for each activity. Running shoes often have greater cushioning to absorb higher impact, while walking shoes emphasize steady support and flexibility. Differences such as heel drop, sole stiffness, and upper construction affect comfort and performance. A higher heel drop may feel unstable for walking, and increased sole stiffness can limit natural foot motion. Upper construction also varies, influencing breathability and fit during longer wear. A podiatrist can assess arch type, gait pattern, and activity needs to determine whether running shoes are appropriate for walking, or if a specific walking shoe is better. If you have foot pain or fatigue, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a podiatrist for personalized advice and guidance on proper shoe selection.

For more information about walking shoes versus running shoes, consult with Jeffrey Radack, DPM from Texas Regional Foot & Ankle Clinics. Our doctor 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 office located in McKinney and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel spurs are bony growths on the heel that often cause sharp pain, tenderness, and inflammation, especially while walking or standing. Symptoms include stabbing pain in the heel, swelling, or discomfort after rest. Effective exercises can reduce pain and improve foot function. These can include the foot flex, which involves bending the foot upward and downward to stretch and strengthen the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue on the sole of the foot. Calf stretches on a step help lengthen the calf muscles and Achilles tendon, relieving tension on the heel. Additionally, the toe towel grab strengthens foot muscles by picking up a towel with the toes. A podiatrist can evaluate heel pain, and recommend proper stretches. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist who can accurately diagnose what may be going on, and start you on a personalized plan for relief and improved foot health.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Jeffrey Radack, DPM from Texas Regional Foot & Ankle Clinics. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our doctor to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in McKinney and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Finding the right shoes for your child starts with understanding how quickly the feet change as bones, muscles, and ligaments grow. Toddlers often begin walking with flat arches or feet that turn inward, but this usually improves as strength develops. Children’s shoes should protect their feet while allowing natural movement. Experts suggest buying shoes that bend near the toes, offer room for growth, and have a shape that matches the natural width of the forefoot. A secure heel helps guide the ankle, while laces or straps prevent slipping. Shoes that lack adequate support can lead to rubbing, ingrown toenails, or discomfort that affects walking. A podiatrist can assess foot alignment, recommend proper shoe structure, and discuss whether added support is needed to prevent long-term issues or reduce the chance of needing surgery. If your child is having foot problems, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for guidance in choosing the proper footwear.

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact Jeffrey Radack, DPM of Texas Regional Foot & Ankle Clinics. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in McKinney and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Metatarsophalangeal joint pain refers to discomfort and inflammation in the joints where the toes connect to the foot, commonly affecting walking and balance. This condition often develops from overuse, abnormal foot mechanics, arthritis, wearing improper footwear, or repetitive stress on the forefoot. Symptoms may include aching or sharp pain, swelling, stiffness, tenderness, and difficulty pushing off while walking. Pain may worsen with activity or prolonged standing. A podiatrist can evaluate foot structure, identify the underlying cause, and recommend personalized treatment options such as supportive footwear, custom orthotics, activity modification, and targeted therapies to relieve pain and restore function. If forefoot pain is limiting your mobility or comfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide a personalized plan for treatment and relief.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with Jeffrey Radack, DPM from Texas Regional Foot & Ankle Clinics. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in McKinney and Coppell, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.