As we grow older, our feet may extend and lose the fatty cushioning at the base of the feet, eventually causing a foot disorder. People with extra weight tend to put more pressure on their bones and ligaments. Also, any anomaly from birth can worsen and become painful as the foot joints lose flexibility due to aging.
If you notice signs of a foot disorder, you need to book an appointment with a podiatrist immediately to prevent permanent disability. Examine your feet regularly and watch out for changes in the appearance and feel of the foot. Signs of potential foot disorder include:
A bunion is identical to the bump on the exterior of the big toe. It may be unproblematic but could cause pain due to irritation and inflammation of the supporting tissues beneath the bone. Bunions may become warn, red, swollen and sensitive to touch.
Infections may set into ingrown toenails, and you may experience mild pain if pressure is on the nail. Fungal nail infections can cause serious discomfort. Unusually thick, broken or yellowish toenails may fall off.
Thickened layers of skin form on the feet to protect the fragile inner tissues of the feet from constant pressure and rubbing. When calluses harden or expand too much, it could harm the tissues below and cause friction.
Any of the small toes, commonly the second toe, may become perpetually extended, curled and misaligned with other toes. This situation makes it hard to find comfortable shoes.
If you notice red spots, you may have an infection. You need to be cautious if you have blisters, calluses or ingrown toenails. Diabetes can turn a small cut into a serious infection that may predispose you to a foot ulcer or possible amputation. If you have diabetes, you should have your feet examined regularly by a healthcare professional
Joint issues caused by osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or gout can cause painful joint disorders, swelling, chronic dislocation, stiffness and rigid joints. For gout, it is a certain joint (the big toe) that swells and causes discomfort.
Plantar fasciitis: you may experience pain beneath your feet on the inner edges, especially when you stand after waking up. The pain may soon fade and ease up after rest but can worsen into a permanent condition if not treated.
Heels spurs are not always apparent, but they usually cause discomfort below the foot when walking and are often linked with plantar fasciitis.
If walking becomes very difficult, it may be due to inflammation of the tendon that runs vertically from the heels.
You may experience pain beneath the foot, resulting in numbness, tingling and burning, particularly at night.
Blood vessel tumors, plantar warts or spots that change color, size and shape should be checked immediately. Although the feet do not contact the sun as often as other body parts, they are still susceptible to different types of skin cancer and need regular evaluation.
Request an appointment here: https://www.pocatellopodiatry.com or call Ambulatory Foot & Ankle Clinic at (208) 803-0010 for an appointment in our Pocatello office.
