Recognizing and Treating The 5 Most Common Foot Problems with Our South Park Podiatrist

Your feet will absorb a lot of impact during your lifetime. In fact, it’s estimated that the average 50-year old adult has walked the equivalent of 75,000 miles. Considering all the use our feet get, as well as their proximity to nasty stuff that lives on the ground, it’s not surprising that there are so many diverse foot problems. Below are some of the most common foot issues we treat at our South Park foot and ankle clinic. 

Athlete’s Foot 

If you ever experience itching, stinging, or burning feet, you may have contracted athlete’s foot. This contagious condition appears after you make contact with fungus, usually in wet environments such as public locker rooms, showers, and swimming pools. Sufferers of athlete’s foot may also experience foot blisters, crumbly toenails, and cracked, dry, or raw skin. To treat it, you will usually need to see a podiatrist for prescription medication.

Blisters

Blisters are raised pockets of fluid on the feet or heels. This painful condition is usually caused by walking or standing for long periods of time; wearing ill-fitting shoes; or wearing shoes without socks. Generally, blisters do not require professional treatment, but it is important that sufferers do not drain it with a non-sterile implement. If you do choose to drain a blister, make sure to keep it covered with a bandage and antibiotic ointment as it heals.

Bunions

Bunions are bumps on the side of the toes, usually the big toe. This condition causes the big toe to bend towards the others, making it painful to walk. Bunions can be caused by many factors, including genetics, ill-fitting shoes, or poor standing and walking posture. Since bunions become larger and more painful if they are left untreated, it is recommended you see a podiatrist as soon as you begin to experience any discomfort.

Corns

Corns are round circles of thickened skin on your toes and/or the sole of your foot. Corns are actually formed to protect your feet from blistering, and they are usually not immediately painful. Over time, however, corns may become irritated and should be treated. Over-the-counter treatments such as corn plasters may help relieve pressure on a corn until it can heal. If not, your foot doctor or your doctor may recommend removal surgery.

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia ligament becomes strained, causing pain in the bottom of your heel or in the lower part of your middle foot. Plantar fasciitis is usually caused by wearing soft-soled footwear with poor arch support; frequent standing; weight gain; and other factors. The pain can range from dull to sharp, and becomes worse after your feet have been resting for prolonged periods (such as the first thing in the morning). Home-based treatments for the condition include applying ice, taking anti-inflammatory medications, and stretching the foot daily. Your foot doctor may be able to ease pain with corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, orthotics, or surgery. 

See a Board-Certified South Park Foot Doctor

If you are experiencing one of the foot problems above, make sure to see a South Park foot surgeon for proper diagnosis and treatment. Make an appointment with Ryan Foot and Ankle Clinic here!