9 Common Feet Problems And How To Treat Them
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Feet are highly resilient and strong parts of our body, and they keep functioning even after we expose them to harsh conditions and extreme stress. Some foot problems are severe and require you to go to a clinic. The Feet People podiatry Brisbane has a learning hub offering a wealth of information on stretches and foot care and we document some food care pointers below too.
Athlete’s Foot
An athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that usually starts between the fourth and fifth toe and then spreads to the rest of the foot. In some severe cases, the infection also spreads to other parts of the body.
Athlete’s foot occurs when people keep their feet damp and soaked for long, such as in public showers. It is especially common in people who walk in these areas barefooted. It can also occur in people who wear damp, warm shoes for extended time periods.
Athlete’s foot is an infectious condition and can spread if it is not controlled in time.
To treat Athlete’s foot, you must keep your feet clean and dry. Try to not use the same towel as your feet on the rest of your body when you have Athlete’s foot to prevent the infection from spreading.
In some cases, the doctor can prescribe oral or topical antifungal medications as well to help the infection faster.
Ingrown Toenails
When your nail grows into your skin instead of outside, it is known as an ingrown toenail. Some toenails are ingrown because the natural shape of the nail is curved. It also happens to people who do not trim their nails often since overgrown nails can start growing into the skin.
Sometimes, ingrown toenails also occur due to narrow and ill-fitting shoes, the pressure from which can cause the nail to grow abnormally.
Ingrown nails can cause discomfort and some degree of pain in the toe. In some cases, the nail may cause swelling and redness as well, in which case the nail may also become infected. Ingrown nails may also press on the nerves in the toe at times.
To relieve ingrown nails, you need to ensure that you keep your nails well-trimmed. Trim your nails right after a shower when they are soft. Try to keep your nails cut in a flat, square shape instead of a rounded shape. Also, make sure you wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes.
In some cases, the ingrown nail is severe and has to be removed by a surgeon or a podiatrist.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis refers to pain in the heel; in fact, it is one of the most common causes of heel pain in the world.
It occurs due to the inflammation of the plantar fascia, which supports the arch of your foot.
It can occur for multiple reasons, such as walking or running long distances, especially in footwear with less support. It is very common in obese people as well and can flare up when they stand in one place for a long time or walk long distances.
Plantar fasciitis tends to hurt more when people get some rest after using their feet for a long time.
To relieve this pain, you can take anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen, use a cold compress on your heel, or perform heel exercises. If the pain is too severe, you might want to pay a visit to your doctor as well since they might prescribe stronger medicine.
Blisters
Blisters in the foot appear after people run with sweaty feet that cause friction against their shoes. They may also occur if the foot is scorched on a very hot surface such as the floor under direct sunlight.
Many blisters heal on their own, and the skin starts to peel off. A good pedicure can help you get rid of the dead skin as well.
Bunions
Bunions are bumps on the side of the foot where the large toe is located. These bumps cause the large toe to turn inwards. This makes it difficult to move the big toe and may even make it painful when walking.
Bunions occur in people who wear very narrow footwear for extended time periods. Some people have a family history of the condition too, and they are more prone to contracting it.
Ice packs and anti-inflammatory medication can help relieve the pain and inflammation from the condition. To relieve the condition completely, people should wear comfortable, well-fitting footwear.
Diabetic Foot
Diabetic people are strictly instructed by their doctors to keep a close eye on their feet. People with diabetes may damage the nerves in their feet due to the high blood sugar levels in their vessels.
Symptoms of diabetic foot include loss of feeling in the feet, tingling or pins and needles in the feet, and problems in walking properly.
To keep diabetic foot at bay, you must check your blood sugar levels. In severe cases, the foot needs to be amputated as well.
Gout
Gout can occur due to excessive uric acid in the body which can occur due to eating certain foods like deli meats constantly.
It affects the big toe mainly and causes pain in the area.
If left untreated, gout can also become chronic and may begin damaging your joints as well. It is most commonly found in men over 40 years old and women after menopause.
To treat gout, you will need to improve your diet and ask your doctor for medication.
Flat Foot
Some people have a genetic condition where their foot does not have an arch when they are standing. Their feet are, therefore, flat on the ground.
A flat foot is not always troublesome. However, it may trouble some people when they exercise for a long time or stand for too long.
There is no treatment for this condition. However, pain relievers, custom orthotics, and foot exercises may help keep issues at bay.
Disclaimer: Sydney Chic does not give medical advice, this article has been carefully researched. Please consult with your health professional.