Our feet work to support you and get you where you need to go. When heavy use or other health issues cause difficulty, a podiatrist can help. Learn more about some of the most common reasons that lead people to this specialist. Get a training by searching medical assistant programs near me.
Bursitis
A bump at the base of the big toe is called a bunion. A bunion is caused by movement of the bone or tissue of this joint. This movement causes the toe to bend at an unnatural angle. As it progresses, the bunion can cause severe pain. A growing bunion can also make it difficult to wear shoes. Some people also develop a bunion on the outside of the foot called a “tailor’s bunion.” A podiatrist may suggest nonsurgical treatments, such as wearing pads to treat the bunion, applying ice to reduce swelling, and taking anti-inflammatory medications. Finally, you may need to undergo a bunion toeomy, in which the bunion toe is surgically removed.
Skin irritations
A number of skin irritations may occur. You may notice dryness and cracked heels. If the cracks become deep, they may even bleed. Your doctor can examine the cracked skin to make sure the cause of the irritation is not due to a medical problem. You can apply an ointment to moisturize the skin. You may also notice changes in skin color or swelling, which may indicate vein problems or decreased blood flow.
Change in the shape of the foot
Over time, you may notice changes in the shape of the foot. This can manifest as a flattening of the arch of the foot, which can be caused by torn tendons that no longer function properly. When this happens, arthritis can occur, often changing the shape of the joints.
Plantar warts
Sometimes the virus can cause warts on the soles of the feet called plantar warts. These warts usually do not respond to common wart remedies. Plantar warts can cause severe pain on the soles of the feet, often because they occur in clusters. Stubborn plantar warts may need to be surgically removed. This treatment usually results in scarring.
Athlete’s foot
Athlete’s foot is caused by a fungal infection. With this type of infection, symptoms such as redness, scaling, itching, blistering, peeling and cracking of the skin are common. If your skin stays damp or wet for a long period of time, you may have this problem. You can also catch a fungus in public showers or swimming pools where many people spend time wearing sandals. Once you have the fungus, you can spread it in your shoes, especially if you wear shoes without socks. Every time you wear infected shoes, you re-infect your skin.
You can avoid many problems with daily care. It is important to wash your feet daily with soap and water and dry them thoroughly between your toes to prevent moisture from remaining on your skin. As you care for your feet, watch for changes or problems. Seeing a chattanooga foot specialists in a timely manner can help prevent more serious health problems.
