Feet are an essential part of our body, responsible for taking us where we want to go. However, foot problems can significantly affect our quality of life and well-being. From mild discomfort to more serious conditions like plantar fasciitis and Morton’s neuroma, it’s critical to understand the causes, recognize the symptoms, and seek appropriate treatment.
Main foot problems
Corns and calluses:
Corns and calluses are skin thickenings that form in response to excessive pressure or friction. They usually occur in areas that support the body’s weight, such as the bottoms of the feet. Inappropriate footwear, intense physical activity or gait abnormalities can contribute to the development of these conditions. Treatment involves the use of insoles, comfortable shoes, and careful removal of calluses by a healthcare professional.
Plantar fasciitis:
Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that connects the heel to the toes. Mainly caused by repetitive stress or excessive strain, plantar fasciitis results in severe heel pain, especially when taking your first steps in the morning. Stretching, strengthening exercises, wearing special shoe inserts, and shock wave therapy are some common treatment options to relieve pain and promote healing.
Calcaneal spur:
The calcaneal spur is a bony projection on the underside of the heel. While not all spurs cause symptoms, in some cases they can lead to severe heel pain similar to plantar fasciitis. Factors such as repetitive overload, biomechanical imbalances and the use of inappropriate footwear can contribute to the development of spurs. Treatment usually involves pain-relieving measures such as physical therapy, wearing insoles and shoes with proper support, and medications to reduce inflammation.
Neuroma de Morton:
Morton’s neuroma is a condition where a benign growth of tissue occurs between the bones of the toes, most commonly between the third and fourth toes. This can cause pain, tingling, burning sensation and even numbness in the affected fingers. Tight shoes, repetitive trauma and biomechanical imbalances are risk factors for the development of neuroma. Treatment may involve changing shoes, wearing shoe inserts, corticosteroid injections and, in severe cases, surgery.
Onychomycosis (nail fungus):
Onychomycosis is a fungal infection that affects the toenails. It causes discoloration, thickening, flaking and brittle nails. Humid environments, lack of proper ventilation in shoes, nail injuries and a compromised immune system are risk factors for developing this infection. Treatment may involve topical or oral antifungal medications, as well as proper foot care and strict hygiene.
Bunions (hallux valgus):
It is a deformity of the big toe, in which the bone of the big toe moves towards the other toes. It causes pain and can make it difficult to wear proper shoes.
ingrown toenails:
It occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the skin, causing pain, inflammation and possible infection.
Athlete’s foot:
It is a fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, causing itching, scaling and redness, especially between the toes.
Foot problems can affect our well-being and quality of life, but with proper knowledge and care, many of these conditions can be prevented, treated and alleviated. It is important to seek the guidance of a specialized health professional. In addition, adopt preventive measures, such as:
- Wear suitable footwear;
- Do strengthening and stretching exercises;
- Maintain good foot hygiene
The post Care for Life.
Source: cuidadospelavida.com.br
