My Foot Problem
Common Foot Conditions
The human foot contains 26 bones (plus two sesamoids and sometimes accessory bones), 33 joints and more than 100 muscles, ligaments and tendons made of firm and resilient fibrous tissue that keeps all of the moving parts together. Not to mention, the foot also has more sweat glands than any other part of the body.
We think that the human foot is an absolute marvel of human evolution, capable of handling huge amounts of force and pressure every day. The essential parts of the foot work together harmoniously to get you where you need to go. However, this means that your feet bear all the weight and stress of carrying you around day in and day out, and this naturally puts you at a high risk of injuring your feet.
Whether that's relatively simple things like a verruca, corn or fungal infection, or more complex foot problems, you shouldn't ignore what your feet are telling you. Several different issues can cause foot problems; it could be something as simple as stubbing your toe to something more composite like your natural walking gait. If you are suffering from foot problems, you should first have a professional foot examination by a podiatrist like ourselves.
Foot Pain
Corns and callouses can cause foot pain. So can trapped nerves, neuromas, blisters, inflamed joints and stress fractures.
Toe Pain
Toe problems come in many different forms, whether it be bunions, hammertoes, neuropathy or toe fungus. They cause discomfort and can make it difficult to choose footwear that doesn't cause pain. If you are having any form of a toe problem, you should visit a podiatrist as soon as possible. Catching the problem earlier will often make it easier to treat and will greatly improve your life.
Plantar Heel Pain
Plantar Heel Pain is an umbrella term for multiple pathologies involves heel discomfort. This can be from plantar fasciitis, plantar fasciosis, or calcaneal fat pad inflammation to name a few. Typically linked to loading spikes. Relief may be achieved through rest, arch support, and stretches, but there are many other helpful treatments available.
Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis is inflammation of the large tendon at the back of the ankle, often due to overuse, inappropriate footwear, or sudden activity spikes. Pain severity varies and can hinder mobility. Relief can be achieved with rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications, but there are many other helpful treatments available.
Arthritis
Arthritis can affect foot joints, leading to stiffness, swelling, and pain. Osteoarthritis, often affecting the big toe joint (known as hallux limitus or hallux rigidus), is common. Management involves pain relief, supportive footwear, and lifestyle adjustments for comfort and mobility. Other treatments such as laser therapy can be helpful for managing symptoms.
Cracked Heels
Cracked Heels, also known as heel fissures, are a common condition in which the skin on the back of your heel will become dry, lose its elasticity and crack apart. This can be very uncomfortable and painful and, in the worst cases, cause bleeding or even lead to infection. To continue reading about cracked heels, take a look at our blog.
Fungal Infections
A fungal infection of the skin on the feet (Athlete's Foot) is most often caused by a group of fungi called Dermatophytes. They thrive in warm and moist environments, in which they can multiply and cause further conditions such as onychomycosis (fungal toenails) or worse infections.
Nail Problems
One of the most common foot problems that we see at Health First Foot & Gait Clinic is ingrowing toenails. These can be extremely painful if left untreated and could lead to further issues such as infection. Take a look at our blog to learn more about ingrown toenails and other potential nail conditions such as fungal nails.
Verrucas
Verrucas are a form of highly contagious viral wart, typically found on the soles of the feet and caused by types of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). They look like small, often rough lumps or growth on the skin. Many people will get one in their lives; however, they are most common among children and young adults. Learn more about verrucas here.
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