Your feet are one of the most used parts of your body. They help you stand and walk, they take the pressure off your back when you’re sitting down, and without them, we wouldn’t be able to play sports or enjoy many other activities. Yet many people neglect their feet because they don’t think it’s essential – until something goes wrong.
There are ten common foot problems that people experience, and each one has its causes and treatment options.
In this article, we’ll take a look at each one so you can start taking care of your feet today!
1. Ingrown Toenails
This is one of the most common foot problems, and it can be caused by a number of things. One of the most common causes is trimming your toenails too short, which can cause them to grow into the skin. Other causes include wearing shoes that are too tight or have high heels and having fungal infections.
Ingrown toenails can be very painful, and if they’re not treated, they can become infected. Treatment options include using over-the-counter medications and ointments, soaking your feet in warm water, and, in severe cases, surgery.
2. Bunions
Bunions are caused by wearing shoes that are too tight or have high heels. They’re a deformity of the joint at the base of your big toe, and they can be very painful.
There are a few treatment options for bunions, including using over-the-counter medications and ointments, wearing special shoes or inserts that help to stretch the foot, and surgery.
3. Hammer Toes
This is another common deformity that can be caused by wearing shoes that are too tight or have high heels. It’s a deformity of the toe where it bends in the middle instead of at the end. Hammertoes can be very painful, and they can make it difficult to walk.
There are a few treatment options for hammertoes. One is to wear shoes that have a wider toe box, so there’s more room for your toes. You can also try wearing orthotics, which are shoe inserts that help correct your feet’ position. If these treatments don’t work, you may need surgery to correct deformities.
4. Plantar Fasciitis
This is a condition that causes pain in the heel of your foot. It is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot.
Treatment usually involves using a heel cup or orthotic device to support the area and ice therapy to reduce inflammation. Some people also find relief from taking NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) or corticosteroid injections.
5. Athlete’s Foot
An athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that affects the skin on your feet. It is caused by contact with the fungus, and it is very contagious.
Treatment usually involves using a topical medication that you apply to your feet. You may also need to take an oral medication to get rid of the infection. It’s also essential to keep your feet clean and dry and avoid wearing tight shoes or made from materials that don’t allow your feet to breathe.
6. Corns
Corns are a common foot problem caused by friction between your toes. They can be very painful, making it difficult to walk.
The best way to treat corns is to wear comfortable shoes with plenty of room for your toes. You can also ask your podiatrist about using a corn pad or a callus remover.
7. Heel Spurs
A heel spur is a bony growth that forms on the heel bone. It’s caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, and it can be excruciating.
There is no cure for heel spurs, but there are a few treatment options that can help to relieve the pain. These include using a heel cup or orthotic device, taking NSAIDs, and, in severe cases, surgery.
8. Flat Feet
This is a condition where the arch of your foot is shallow, and various things cause it. It can be hereditary, or it can be caused by injuries or age. When you have flat feet, the tendons and muscles in your feet don’t work as well as they should, leading to problems like Plantar Fasciitis.
There are various treatment options available, including special shoes, inserts, and braces. Visit your doctor to find the best treatment for you.
Foot problems can be harrowing and make it difficult to walk. The best way to prevent foot problems is by wearing comfortable shoes with plenty of room for your toes, but if the pain persists, you should see a doctor about custom orthotics or inserts that will help correct any deformities in your feet.
