5 Foot Problems You Should Never Ignore
Foot conditions occur more often than you realize and can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Your feet support your entire body, so even minor foot issues may have an impact on how you live and work each day. Unfortunately, many people put off seeking medical care until they are experiencing severe pain.
1. Heel Pain - A Common Foot Problem
The most common foot complaint is heel pain that is usually due to plantar fasciitis, which occurs when there is inflammation of the connective tissue between your heel and toes.
Symptoms :
- Sharp pain in the heel, especially when you first get up in the morning
- Pain after standing for long periods of time or walking for a long time
Treatment
- Stretching exercises
- Wearing supportive shoes
- Getting custom–made orthotic inserts.
2. Ingrown Toenails as Painful Foot Problems
Toe nails that grow into the surrounding skin are called “Toes With Ingrown Nails“
Signs & Symptoms:
- Red, swollen toe.
- Painful edge of the toe nail.
- Possible infection of the toe.
Why Downplay the Condition?
If left untreated, an ingrown toe nail may become infected causing severe pain and discomfort therefore, it is important to address these problems early on!
3. Bunions - Structural Foot Problems
A bunion is a bone bump that develops where the big toe meets the foot. It usually develops slowly by exerting pressure against the foot when wearing improper shoes.
Signs of a Bunion are:
- An obvious bump on top of the foot
- A painful foot when walking
- Difficulties fit into shoes
Management options:
- Wearing proper and comfortable shoes
- Using foam padding or orthotic devices
- Surgical procedure may be needed for severe examples of the issue.
4. Athlete’s Foot - A Fungal Foot Problem
Tinea pedis (athlete’s foot) is a highly transmissible fungal disease that usually develops in warm, humid places.
Signs of the condition include:
- Itching/burning
- Skin that is broken or flaking
- Redness between toes
Ways you can help prevent the disorder are:
- Always keep your feet as dry as possible
- Change your socks daily
- Use tolnaftate, miconazole nitrate or one of the many other types of antifungal powders available.
5. Diabetic Foot Problems and Their Risks
Problems with feet due to diabetes can pose an immediate risk to your health. Small injuries through reduced blood flow and/or loss of feeling in the feet (from nerve damage) can lead to severe complications (e.g., infections and amputations).
Indications that you have a diabetic foot problem:
- Numbness or tingling
- Slow-healing wounds
- Foot ulcers
The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) recommends a foot examination at any time someone has diabetes.
When Should You See a Podiatrist for Foot Problems?
If you have the following symptoms you should see a podiatrist:
- Ongoing foot pain
- Swelling and/or redness in the foot
- Trouble walking
- Change in skin and nail appearance
And catching foot problems or foot conditions early can reduce the risk of more significant problems occurring.
FAQs
Common conditions include heel discomfort, bunions, ingrown nails, and athlete's foot.
You should seek a podiatrist if your foot condition has lasted longer than a few days or continues to worsen.
Most minor issues will improve but usually require proper medical care to heal completely.
Conclusion
It is very important not to take foot issues lightly as they may develop into something worse with time and affect your daily activities. When you experience any of these issues you need to know what to look out for and see a professional early on.
Eventually, by taking care of your feet now, you reduce your risk of experiencing major problems with your feet later in life.
Call Us Today
If you are experiencing foot problems, schedule an appointment with our podiatry experts today and take the first step toward healthier feet.