How to Spot Podiatric Problems
Podiatric or lower extremity health issues are often key indicators of larger problems. The average person who lives to be 80-years-old will walk over 100,000 miles in their lifetime. That is tons of pressure on the feet, so it is imperative that each of us pays close attention to any negative changes. This article will help the reader to identify foot problems early on, and in turn, hopefully prevent any long-term damage.
Corns
Not to be confused with calluses, corns have a hard and rough surface of dead skin that grows inward to a point. They usually occur on pressure points and can be detected based on how they feel. Corns will not cause major medical problems, but they can be painful and to be quite honest, they just aren’t cute. Liquid corn removal and corn pads are available for reasonable prices at just about any drug store or big-box retailer.
Bunions
Bunions are also easy to spot. The bone-like protrusion occurs at the base of the big toe. The unsightly issue often pushes the big toe inward towards the other toes. The best way to avoid further growth is to wear roomier shoes and to limit wearing heels as much as possible. In a worst case scenario, bunions can be removed via surgery.
Gout
Many women ignore gout because it is a disease that occurs in men far more than women, but age, diacritic use, obesity and drinking can increase uric acid and blood in older women’s feet. Studies show that 4% of women in their 60’s and 6% of women in their 80’s have the disease. Gout symptoms–pain and swelling of the foot—are often associated with other issues, so it is best to have a doctor diagnose the problem if either occur.
Toenail Fungus
If the toenail becomes thicker or starts to change colors, the cause is most likely toenail fungus. This happens normally when moisture seeps in through cracks in the toenail. Swimmers and people who sweat abnormally often suffer from toenail fungus. The bad news is, it will not just go away, and it can spread to other toenails and skin. The good news is there are topical creams and prescription pills that can be taken to eliminate the fungus.
At Superb Couture Footwear, we not only sell high quality shoes and foot creams, scrubs and foot scrubbers, we are also greatly concerned with foot health. If you’d like to learn more about taking better care of your feet, be sure to read our Podiatrist’s Corner articles, written by Suzette Clements, DPM.
