Your feet are your body’s foundation, and keeping them well-cared for is important for your health. Years of wear and tear can be hard on the feet. Wearing ill-fitting shoes and even genetics can lead to foot conditions that can impact your mobility. An awkward gait to avoid pain caused by a foot condition can compromise other parts of the body.
With a little forethought and care, many of these foot problems can be avoided. Here, we take a look at some common foot problems and how you can prevent them.
Common Foot Problems and How to Prevent Them
Athlete’s Foot
An athlete’s foot is a fungal infection of the skin, usually found between the toes. However, the infection can spread and cause significant discomfort, itching, and even pain.
Tips to Prevent Athlete’s Foot
- Keep feet clean and dry.
- Avoid using swimming pools and public showers.
- Wear sandals.
- Air shoes between use.
- Avoid closed shoes.
- Wear breathable socks.
Bunions
Bunions are abnormalities of the feet that cause a bump to develop on the large toe joint.
Tips to Prevent Bunions
- Wear shoes with the right size and fit.
- Avoid high heels.
- Do bunion stretches and exercises to strengthen your feet.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when the toenail starts to grow into the nail groove. This can cause significant pain and discomfort.
Tips to Prevent Ingrown Toenails
- Trim your toenails straight across.
- Keep toenails at a moderate length.
- Wear well-fitting shoes.
Plantar Fasciitis
The condition occurs when the plantar fascia, the ligament responsible for supporting the foot’s arch, becomes inflamed.
Tips to Prevent Plantar Fasciitis
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Choose supportive shoes with good arch and extra cushioning.
- Don’t wear worn-out shoes.
- Stretch your arches before the activity.
Blisters
Blisters are raised fluid-filled pockets that are caused by friction that often appear after walking or running for long periods.
Tips to Prevent Blisters
- Wear the right-fitting shoes.
- Wear socks.
- Moisturize your feet if they are dry.
- Stop the activity if you feel a shoe bite.
Corns
Corns are patches of thickened skin, often found on the soles of the feet or toes.
Tips to Prevent Corns
- Wear roomy shoes.
- Use nonmedicated corn pads over areas that rub against your footwear.
- Wear socks.
- Use a pumice stone over hard areas.
Many common foot problems can be prevented by taking a little care. But if the foot condition persists, seeing one of the top podiatrists in Los Altos for treating common foot problems in Los Altos can help you manage it.