We depend on our feet to perform the basic tasks of balance, standing, and walking. Yet, it is a part of the body that often receives the least tender loving care. Paying attention to our feet is important, not only for aesthetic reasons but also for our physical health and mobility. Here are some common foot problems and how to prevent and treat them.
Heel Pain / Plantar Fasciitis
The plantar fascia is a thick ligament that starts at the base of your heel and runs across the sole of the foot to support the foot arch and connect the heel bone to the toes. Plantar fasciitis occurs when there is an inflammation in the plantar fascia, and it is the most common cause of heel pain.
Plantar fasciitis is a sharp pain that starts at the bottom of the heel and can travel to the inside of the heel or up to the arch of the foot. The pain often occurs with the first steps in the morning or when standing after long periods of sitting.
Prevent plantar fasciitis by wearing shoes that fit well and provide ample support. Proper stretching and warming up of the surrounding muscles such as the calves can help reduce injury risk. If you already suffer from plantar fasciitis, treatment may include anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy, or custom orthotics.
Bunions / Hallux Valgus
Bunions are painful bony bumps that grow at the joint at the base of the big toe. Bunions form when some of the bones in the foot are pushed out of place, forcing the tip of the big toe slightly inwards and the joint outwards. . Bunions lead to a tender protrusion around the big toe, difficulty moving the toe, and pain when walking.
Reasons for bunion development include genetic predisposition, narrow and tight shoes, and certain conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Women are more likely to suffer from bunions due to their choice of footwear, particularly high-heeled shoes. If bunions are left untreated, they may develop into complications such as bursitis, hammertoe, and metatarsalgia.
To prevent bunions, choose shoes with a wide toe box that allow your toes to spread out in their natural alignment. Treatment of bunions may include bunion padding, anti-inflammatory medication, and low-level laser treatment or acoustic wave therapy. Severe cases may require surgery.
Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is a condition that is more common than you think. It is estimated that up to 10 percent of the population suffers from some form of toenail fungus infection. Athletes, elderly persons, and individuals with compromised immune systems are more likely to have toenail fungus infections.
Toenail fungus progression is gradual, and it can be difficult to spot in the beginning. In later stages, toenails may become thick, deformed, discolored, or flaky. Thick and deformed toenails can lead to great discomfort and pain when wearing shoes or walking. Fungus-infected nails can also sometimes lift off the nail bed causing pain and infection.
Oral medications are the most common treatment for toenail fungus but may have side effects including diarrhea and liver damage. Due to the possibility of severe side effects, many individuals who suffer from other health problems are not able to take oral medications for toenail fungus infections. Therefore, laser toenail fungus treatment is currently the most effective, accessible, and painless treatment for all types of patients.
Athlete’s Foot / Tinea Pedis
Athlete’s foot is a highly contagious fungal infection that is accompanied by a characteristic foul odor. Skin afflicted with athlete’s foot will become white and scaly and extremely itchy, especially around the toes. The fungus is easily spread in moist conditions such as shower cubicles and can be pronounced during the wintertime with the prolonged wearing of poorly-ventilated shoes.
To prevent contracting athlete’s foot, you should aim to keep your feet dry and fresh at all times. Immediately change any sweaty and wet socks and regularly air out your shoes. Consider using antimicrobial socks or foot powder to absorb perspiration. Athlete’s foot can be treated with over-the-counter medications with stronger prescription medicine available for more severe cases.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails are toenails that are growing into the skin around them. These can cause pain, inflammation, and infection. Ingrown toenails are caused by over-trimming your nails, wearing badly-fitting shoes, trauma to the feet, and nail problems such as toenail fungus.
Prevent ingrown toenails by wearing well-fitting and spacious shoes, trimming your nails after a bath or shower then they are soft, and trimming them in a straight pattern. Elderly persons, obese people, and those with diabetes are more susceptible to complications from ingrown toenails. If an ingrown toenail becomes infected, it can produce pus and a foul odor and may have to be removed.
Much of our daily routine depends on our ability to move about freely and painlessly. By wearing appropriate footwear and taking care of our feet, we can ensure that we put our best foot forward and live a healthy and comfortable life.