When it comes to exercise to keep the body physically fit, the feet and toes should not be neglected. They are a complex network of bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, tissues, and nerves that endures constant pressure and stress, making them susceptible to pain from injuries and general wear and tear. Here are foot and toe […]
Patient Education Term Category: Foot and Ankle Care
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes, or hyperglycemia, is high blood glucose. If blood sugar levels are not normalized in a diabetic, the body may have trouble fending off infections due to decreased functioning of the immune system. This can affect the feet in particular due to peripheral artery disease (lack of circulation) and peripheral neuropathy (loss of feeling). As […]
Common Foot and Ankle Problems
Here are some of the most common reasons for foot and ankle problems: Injuries Congenital foot deformities that occur at birth and can be hereditary Infections (bacterial, fungal, or viral) Arthritis affecting one or multiple joints Tumors, abnormal growths, and neoplasms Issues that arise from ill-fitting or improper footwear, stress, or mechanical changes Here is […]
Children’s Foot Care
Proper foot care is important for children of all ages, as foot problems that crop up later in life often stem from childhood issues. Proper foot care for children is the same as adults: keep the feet clean and dry, wear appropriate, well-fitting, and protective footwear designed for the activity or sport the child is […]
Calluses and Corns
Calluses, or thickened skin, result from on-going friction or pressure on a particular area of skin. On the foot, calluses (hyperkeratosis) commonly occur on areas subjected to pressure and impact: the heels, balls of the foot, and the big toe. Calluses cause irritation and pain as the thickened skin continues to be exposed to pressure […]
Burning Feet
At the end of a long day, especially one with a lot of standing and walking, it is not uncommon for the feet to feel tired, ache, and burn. This condition of burning feet can become more common after the age of 50. However, if burning feet turns into a chronic and recurring experience, it […]
Bunion Prevention
A bunion is a deformity of the big toe joint that results from bone misalignment or repositioning at the joint. Although bunions occur most frequently at the base of the big toe, they can also arise on the outside of the foot at the base of the small toe. Bunion formation occurs slowly over time, […]
Blisters
Blisters are fluid-filled bubbles that form on the skin of the foot or other parts of the body due to friction or a burn. On the foot, they commonly occur on the heel and toes, areas subjected to friction and rubbing against footwear. Most blisters are filled with clear fluid and do not usually require […]
Basic Foot Care Guidelines
Following these basic foot care guidelines can help keep your feet healthy, injury-free, and properly functioning. Even if the feet seem to feel fine, inspect them regularly for changes, as early intervention and treatment can head off major problems. Maintain your feet by keeping them clean, dry, and appropriately covered. Do not walk barefoot, and […]
Athletic Foot Care
Following these basic foot care guidelines can help keep your feet healthy, injury-free, and properly functioning while playing sports, whether you are a novice, a professional, or just enjoy sports for exercise and recreation. Many sports involve quick motions, side-to-side movement, quick turns, jumps, running, and sprinting, such as soccer, tennis, running, track and field, […]