How to Recognize and Treat Common Foot Ailments

According to the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society one in six Americans suffers from some sort of foot ailment. Problems that start in the feet may not stay there, they can move to the knees, hips, back and neck. Detecting and correcting foot problems early can ward off more serious problems as you get older.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
    
   ingrown toenail

   Ingrown Toenails are when the toenail grows into the skin around it causing an infection. While some people have a predisposition for ingrown toenails, they can also be caused by cutting the toenails incorrectly or wearing shoes that are too small. To prevent ingrown toenails cut the toenail straight across and wear shoes that fit your feet properly.

2. 
    
   bunions

   Bunions are when the joint of the big toe is angled to the outside causing the bone to stick out. Bunions are caused by wearing pointy toed shoes or shoes that are too tight. To prevent bunions wear shoes with a roomy toe box and low heels.

3. 
    
   hammer toes

   Hammer Toes are when the toes draw into a clawlike position. This condition can be hereditary or a muscle imbalance, however pointy or tight shoes can cause this problem as well. To prevent hammer toe wear shoes with a square or round toe that is similar to the shape of your foot.

4. 
    

   Fallen Arches are just what they sound like, the arches of the feet flatten out. While they can be genetic, age and body weight can play a part as well. To prevent fallen arches wear shoes with a good arch support, keep your bodyweight down, and don't stand for long periods of time while barefoot.

5. 
    
   Plantar Warts

   Plantar Warts are caused by a virus entering the plantar (bottom) of the foot through an abrasion. Plantar warts are hard to treat because of the thickness of the sole of the foot and they usually grow up into the foot. To prevent plantar warts wear flip-flops or sandals instead of walking barefoot, especially outside.

6. 
    
   Achilles Tendon

   Achilles Tendinitis is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon on the back of the calf. Tendinitis can be caused by running, sports with repetitive motion or by simple long term wear on the heel. Again wearing the right shoes as well as gradually warming up and stretching before sports can prevent this ailment.

Resources

• How to Buy the Right Shoes to Fit Your Feet
• PawPaw's other eHow articles

[joanhaines]

on 6/2/2009 When feet ain't happy, you ain't happy!

[lezsays]

on 4/9/2009 Thanks for sharing such an informative article on How to Recognize and Treat Common Foot Ailments.5

[sneedc]

on 4/9/2009 Glad I read this AFTER breakfast! OUCH, eeew, DOUBLE owie, and wow! Take care of your feet, and they'll go the extra mile for you. Thanks for the advice here on foot care tactics. 5*

[Muzikpeach]

on 3/27/2009 Wonderful article....Thanks 5*

[chevee]

on 3/24/2009 This is very good information, and the article well written.