Your feet are formed by a complex network of ligaments, tendons, tissues and bones. All these intricate structures of your foot work together to perform essentials tasks in the body. However, when it comes to feet problems, people tend to ignore them until it becomes extremely necessary to visit the foot doctor. Many people wait to see a podiatrist simply because they fail to recognize the common signs and symptoms of foot conditions. Here, we have compiled a list of common foot problems that call for a specialist consultation.
Problems that can be treated
Bunions
Bunions are a painful condition that is caused due to misplacement of joint of the big toe. The joint becomes swollen and inflamed, which in turn can impact walking. It is a hereditary condition, but can also be caused by trauma, arthritis, wearing ill-fitted shoes that crowd the toes and congenital defects.
Ankle and heel pain
If you are experiencing foot, ankle or heel pain while walking or moving around, you could have a fracture or foot injury that has not healed properly. Plantar fasciitis is another common foot problem that causes pain in the feet. It is caused due to inflammation of plantar fascia- a ligament that extends from ankle to the toes. The location of the pain can help in diagnosing the cause of foot pain. Without proper treatment, this pain can worsen and hinder day to day activities.
Ingrown toenails
Ingrown toenails can be a simple foot problem that may go away without causing much trouble. However, minor nuisance can become extremely painful and infected. The condition occurs when a sharp corner of the nail grows into the toe, thus leading to swelling, pain, and inflammation. If not treated, the ingrown nail can become infected and cause excruciating pain.
Athlete’s foot
It is a painful fungal infection of the feet. Characterized by cracked, itchy skin and blistering, athlete’s foot is caused by walking barefoot in public places like showers, pools, and changing rooms.
Unusual growths
Mo
st people cannot distinguish among various unusual growths that occur on the foot. These include blisters, corns, plantar warts, hammertoes, and neuromas. These conditions can be caused due to reasons like improper hygiene, constrictive footwear and deformed growth of the foot.
Hallux limits
Do you have a stiff big toe that has a limited range of motion? There are chances that you might be suffering from hallux limits. Hallux Limitus is a progressive arthritic condition that limits the function as well as the motion of your big toe. The condition is often ignored and misdiagnosed.
Our feet are responsible for much more than helping to walk. If you experience any of the above symptoms, consult your podiatrist immediately.