Your legs work hard to support and get you where you need to be. If problems arise from heavy use or other health concerns, a foot specialist can be of assistance. Learn about some common reasons people are referred to this healthcare professional.
Bunions
A lump at the base of the big toe is known as a bunion. Bunions occur when the bone or tissue in this joint slips out of place. When it comes, this movement causes the toe to bend at an unnatural angle. As bunions progress, it can cause severe pain. The growing bump can also make it hard to wear shoes. Some people also develop bunions outside the foot, known as tailor’s bunions. A foot specialist can help you with non-surgical treatment options such as using big toe pads, ice to reduce swelling, and anti-inflammatory medications. Eventually, you may need to consider a surgical bursectomy to remove the bunions.
Skin irritation
Various skin irritations are possible. You may notice dry, cracked skin on your heels. If the cracks are deep, they may even bleed. A doctor may examine cracked skin to ensure an underlying health problem doesn’t irritate. You can apply ointment to moisturize the skin. A person may see a change in skin color or swelling, which may indicate problems with your veins or decreased blood supply.
Changes in the shape of the foot
It may manifest as a flattening of the arch, which may be due to torn tendons that no longer function properly. In this case, arthritis can begin in the joints, often changing their shape.
Plantar warts
Sometimes the virus can cause warts to develop on the soles of the feet, known as plantar warts. These warts usually do not respond to conventional wart treatments. Plantar warts cause pain on the soles of the feet, often because they appear in groups. The treatment option often causes scarring. Persistent plantar warts may need to be surgically removed.
Athlete’s foot
A fungal infection causes an athlete’s foot. When you have this infection, you will usually have redness, peeling, itching, blistering, peeling, and cracking of the skin. The problem can occur if the skin is left damp or damp for a long period. You can also pick up fungus in public showers or swimming pools, where many people spend time barefoot. Once you become infected with this fungus, you can spread it to the inside of your shoes. Every time you wear dirty shoes, you re-infect your skin.
Conclusion
With daily care, many problems can be avoided. It is important to wash your feet daily with soap and dry them thoroughly between your toes so that moisture does not remain on the skin. When caring for your feet, keep an eye out for any changes or problems. Timely referral to a foot specialist for potential problems can help prevent more serious health problems.
