There are hundreds of common foot problems that affect millions of people daily that can be corrected through a few simple treatments. Unfortunately, due to embarrassment, most people choose to avoid receiving treatment and continue to live with their foot problems.
Here at Solace, we want you to know that foot problems are something most people face during their lifetime and that there’s nothing to feel embarrassed about. Receiving the treatment you need and attending regular foot health appointments will not only make you feel more confident in yourself but will also make you less susceptible to foot problems in the future.
Common Foot Problems
We’ve put together a list of the top 3 most common foot problems and given you some information on how they can be prevented.
1.Claw and Mallet Toes
Toes that are bent into an odd position are referred to as claw or mallet toes, depending on the way in which the joints are bent.
Claw and mallet toes are extremely common in people who frequently wear shoes that are too small or have a narrow toe box. As there is little room for the toes in these types of shoes they must bend to fit, as the shoes are worn over time the muscles in the toes tighten and even once the shoe has been taken off the toes remain in a bent position.
Claw and mallet toes can affect both men and women, however, as women wear high heels with a narrow toe section they are often more susceptible to the condition. Those who have conditions or ailments such as bunions, flat feet, fractures, poor blood supply and rheumatoid arthritis are also likely to suffer from claw and mallet toes.
2.Callus Skin and Corns
Callus skin and corns are most common in people that wear shoes that rub on certain areas of the feet. They are hardened areas of skin that can cause pain and discomfort when walking or running.
A callus is a large area of hardened skin usually found on the base of the heel or ball of the foot – the two areas that have the most pressure applied to them. Corns are much smaller and develop on areas such as the joint of the toe.
Both require treatment as they will not disappear on their own, however, to prevent them from returning, the cause of them must be removed. For example, if it is ill-fitting shoes causing the problem, wearing shoes that fit correctly will stop corns and callus skin developing again.
Removal is simple and painless and involves filing down the hardened skin and cutting out the corns. Foot health clinics, such as ours, provide treatments for callus skin and corn removal using sterile equipment.
3.Fungal Nail Infections
The final one on our list of common foot problems is a fungal nail infection. Fungal nail infections are caused by a build-up of natural fungus within or underneath the toenail. If left untreated, the toenails can become thick, discoloured and brittle. This can be painful when areas of the toenail split or break off.
Fungus thrives in a warm and moist environment such as one caused by wearing socks and shoes. This is one of the leading causes of a fungal infection.
Along with several other causes, another reason fungal nail infections develop is due to using equipment, like nail clippers, that haven’t been sterilised. Bacteria can reside on the blades and can be transmitted through each use. This bacteria can then cause an infection. That is why it is important to make sure that any foot care equipment you use is sterile.
There are a variety of treatments available for fungal nail infections. Anti-fungal medication can be taken orally or foot baths containing medicinal solutions can be used.
