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 Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. 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 one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetic limb salvage focuses on preserving foot structure and function while reducing the risk of wounds and limb loss. In podiatry, the foot is evaluated as a biomechanical system rather than an isolated sore, allowing pressure points, deformity, and joint alignment to be addressed together. A podiatrist can provide wound care, offloading, and monitoring while considering how walking forces affect the toes, midfoot, and ankle. When clinic-based care is not enough, surgery can correct imbalance, remove pressure from high-risk areas, and stabilize unstable joints. Long-term planning is essential for diabetic limb salvage, since changes in foot mechanics can shift pressure and create new problems. Ongoing evaluation helps protect tissue and maintain mobility. For help with foot problems, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for an exam and treatment.

Diabetic Limb Salvage

Diabetic limb salvage can be an effective way in preventing the need for limb amputation. If you have a foot ulcer and diabetes, consult with Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

What Is Diabetic Limb Salvage?

Diabetic limb salvage is the attempt of saving a limb, such as the foot, that has an infected ulcer, from amputation. Podiatrists also try to make sure that there is enough function in the foot after the salvage that it is still usable. Those with diabetes experience poor blood circulation, which prevents proper healing of an ulcer. If the ulcer is left uncheck, it could become infected, which could result in the need for amputation.

Diabetes is the number one cause of non-traumatic amputations in the United States. Amputation has been found to lead to higher mortality rates. This translates into higher healthcare costs, and a reduced quality of life and mobility for amputees. Podiatrists have attempted to increase the prevalence of limb salvage in an attempt to solve these issues.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Limb salvage teams have grown in recent years that utilize a number of different treatments to save the infected limb. This includes podiatrists that specialize in wound care, rehabilitation, orthotics, and surgery. Through a combination of these methods, limb salvage has been found to be an effective treatment for infected limbs, and as an alternative to amputation. Podiatrists will first evaluate the potential for limb salvage and determine if the limb can be saved or must be amputated. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Diabetic foot refers to a group of foot problems that can develop in people with diabetes due to changes in circulation and nerve function. Causes include poor blood flow, nerve damage, and prolonged high blood sugar levels that affect healing and skin health. Symptoms may involve numbness, tingling, burning pain, or dry or cracked skin, in addition to color changes, slow healing wounds, or ulcers. Risk factors include long-term diabetes, poor glucose control, smoking, improper footwear, and a history of foot wounds or infections. Without proper care, diabetic foot problems can lead to serious complications. A podiatrist can help by providing regular foot exams, managing calluses and nail care, treating wounds, and recommending protective footwear or custom orthotics. If you have diabetes and have noticed changes in your feet, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a podiatrist who can help you to manage this serious condition.

Diabetic foot care is important in preventing foot ailments such as ulcers. If you are suffering from diabetes or have any other concerns about your feet, contact Richard P. Jacoby, DPM from Extremity Health Centers. Our doctor can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Diabetic Foot Care

Diabetes affects millions of people every year. The condition can damage blood vessels in many parts of the body, especially the feet. Because of this, taking care of your feet is essential if you have diabetes, and having a podiatrist help monitor your foot health is highly recommended.

The Importance of Caring for Your Feet

• Routinely inspect your feet for bruises or sores.
• Wear socks that fit your feet comfortably.
• Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support.

Patients with diabetes should have their doctor monitor their blood levels, as blood sugar levels play such a huge role in diabetic care. Monitoring these levels on a regular basis is highly advised.

It is always best to inform your healthcare professional of any concerns you may have regarding your feet, especially for diabetic patients. Early treatment and routine foot examinations are keys to maintaining proper health, especially because severe complications can arise if proper treatment is not applied.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Scottsdale and Buckeye, AZ . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.