María Jesús, podiatrist: "Claw toes are not just an aesthetic issue"

Our feet reveal more about our health than we realize. Many people believe that having curled or curved toes is just a matter of appearance, but podiatrist María Jesús warns that claw toes can be the underlying muscle problem that deserves attention. “If your toes aren't straight, pay attention, because it's not just a cosmetic issue,” she explains in an informative video.

As she explains, this condition occurs when the muscles and tendons of the foot become unbalanced , causing the toes to gradually curl downwards. "What you see are claw toes , and it's much more common than it should be," she says. It's not just a simple anatomical feature: if left uncorrected, it can cause discomfort , stiffness, and even pain when walking .

The causes often lie in daily habits . María Jesús points out that this problem can arise from wearing shoes that are too narrow or lack heel support , forcing the toes to "constantly grip to prevent the shoe from slipping off." Spending too many hours on your feet or having a high arch also contributes, as this increases muscle tension in the area .

But all is not lost: there are ways to alleviate it . The specialist recommends opting for shoes with a wider fit and doing exercises that improve toe mobility . In more advanced cases, custom orthotics may be necessary to help relieve pressure on the affected area.

The podiatrist's advice is clear: listen to your body before symptoms worsen . "Changing your footwear and moving your toes frequently can make all the difference," she concludes. Because, as she reminds us, our feet also need attention and care : they are the foundation on which we walk every day.