Our feet play an important role in maintaining the health of our entire body. Every day, they carry the load of our body, help us maintain our balance and move in space. However, despite their importance, feet are often neglected until problems arise. This article looks at six common foot problems, their causes, and how you can treat them to keep your feet healthy and pain-free.
1. Corns and calluses
Corns and calluses are rough patches of skin that form on the feet or toes due to friction or pressure. Corns are usually small and hard, while calluses are larger and less dense. The main cause of corns and calluses is the friction or pressure caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes. These problems often occur in people who walk or stand a lot.
To treat corns and calluses, you can use special emollient creams or plasters. You should also choose more comfortable shoes. In severe cases, it is recommended that you see a podiatrist who can offer corn removal procedures.
2. Bunions (Halus valgus)
A bunion is a condition in which the joint of the big toe begins to shift outwards, creating a painful bony bump. This allows the big toe to move against other toes, causing pain and discomfort. Bunions can be hereditary but can also be caused by tight shoes, high heels, and flat feet.
To relive bunions, it is recommended to use orthopedic shoes or insoles that reduce the pressure on the joint. Targeted exercises to strengthen the leg muscles and physical therapy are also helpful. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the deformity.
3. Gout
A gout is a form of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the joints, which causes intense pain and inflammation. It most often affects the big toe. Gout occurs when there is an excess of uric acid in the body, which can be caused by poor diet, alcohol, obesity, or genetics.
Basic treatment for gout includes anti-inflammatory medications, dietary changes, and lowering uric acid levels in the body. It is important to limit your intake of foods high in purines, such as red meat and seafood.
4. Athlete's foot
Athlete's foot is an infectious disease that causes itchy, scaly, and red skin on the soles of the feet and between the toes. This infection is often transmitted in public places like swimming pools or showers. Fungal infections occur in moist environments and thrive in warm, moist places such as sweaty socks or tight shoes. The infection can be easily transmitted by walking barefoot in public places.
The treatment uses antifungal gels and creams available at pharmacies. It is important to keep your feet dry and clean and change socks and shoes as needed. In severe cases, the doctor may prescribe oral medication.
5. Heel spurs
A heel spur is a bony growth on the heel that causes pain, especially when walking or standing. This condition is usually caused by inflammation of the fascia, the thick connective tissue in the foot.
Heel spurs can occur due to prolonged stress on the heels, flat feet, or wearing inappropriate shoes. Being overweight and exercising also increases the risk of developing this problem. Treatment includes braces, anti-inflammatory medication, and physical therapy. In rare cases, surgical removal of the spur may be necessary.
6. Ingrown toenail
An ingrown toenail is a condition in which the edge of the nail cuts the skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can cause an infection. The main cause of ingrown nails is poor nail clipping with too short or rounded ends. They can also be caused by wearing tight shoes or injury to the nail plate.
Initially, ingrown toenails can be treated at home by taking warm foot baths and raising the edge of the nail with cotton wool or a special bandage. In severe cases, the help of a doctor is necessary, who can perform a partial removal of the nail or its correction.
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