Arch problems: Arch pain can be caused by
a foot that has a low arch flat
foot (pes planus) or a high arch (pes cavus). It is important that anyone with
either of these foot types be evaluated to be sure there is no underlying
problem that may give rise to more serious problems later in life. It is most
important that any child with a flat or high arch foot be evaluated. Many adult foot problems can be prevented if diagnosed
early in life.
Bunion: An enlargement of the big toe joint.
They can be mild, moderate, or severe. The most common cause is an abnormal
motion of the foot called pronation (a turning in of the inside part of the arch
area, which then tends to flatten out, this will "loosen the bones of the foot,"
and eventually in some people lead to a bunion deformity). They are hereditary,
and can be prevented in some patients. It is very important that they be
treated; if left untreated they will eventually interfere with the quality of
life and will adversely affect walking and standing, as well as cause back problems.
Corns and Calluses: Are thickened areas of
skin which can be soft (usually between toes or hard usually on the top of a
toe. They are the body's response to too much pressure in an area. They usually
occur over bony prominences or in areas where there is too much friction. The
more common areas on the foot are outside part of the heel or the top of the
small toe. They can be associated with redness, pain, and swelling
(bursitis). They can be disabling, and in a diabetic can lead to serious
complications if left untreated.
Hammertoes: Are the results of abnormal
contraction and a muscle imbalance that leaves your toe in a bent position. Once
hammertoes stiffen they can rub against the shoe and cause pain from
inflammation in the joint area. This is commonly known as bursitis. You may also
notice a corn or callus on the top on the hammertoe. They can be aggravated by
shoes or socks which do not fit properly. There are a variety of treatments for
hammertoes which range from padding, cortisone injection for temporary relief
and in some cases surgery is necessary for severe deformities.
Heel pain: The most common cause is abnormal
motion in your foot which leads to too much stress on a thick ligament on the
bottom of the foot (plantar fascia). It is commonly referred to as plantar fasciitis. Inherited muscle imbalances, heel injury, improper shoes, excessive
weight, nerve problems in the ankle (Tarsal tunnel-similar to carpal tunnel)
back problems and arthritic conditions can all be contributors of heel pain.
Ingrown nail: An inflamed, reddened, painful
area usually along the border of the nail, can occur in any nail, but is most
common in the big toe. This can be a very serious problem in someone who is
diabetic or has poor circulation. There are many reasons for an ingrown nail,
the most common one is self treatment.
Neuroma: An inflammation of a sensory nerve in the foot ( a sensory
nerve gives you the ability to sense pain). It is most common between the 3rd
and 4th toes. Symptoms can range from mild pain to disabling pain. They can be
treated non-surgically or surgically.
Neuropathy: A disease of the sensory and
motor nerves that result in burning, stinging, numbness, or tingling. This is
commonly associated with Diabetes, but can also be related to hereditary causes
called HSMN (hereditary sensory motor neuropathy), Alcoholism, Heavy metals
(such as lead), Chemotherapeutic agents used to treat cancers, and exposure to
certain chemicals.
Osteoarthritis: This is the most common form of arthritis known, and
is commonly referred to as DJD (degenerative joint disease). It is usually
caused by an injury, but can also be inherited. The most common area in the
foot is the big toe joint known as (hallux limitus). There
are many treatments available for this condition: physical therapy,
medications, and custom made inserts.
Poor circulation (Peripheral Vascular Disease):
This commonly can cause symptoms such as cramping and aching in the calves, or
even buttocks area when walking. In severe cases some people cannot even walk
twenty feet. This is commonly a disease seen in diabetics and in smokers.
Collagen Vascular Disease like Lupus, and Scleroderma can also affect
circulation, as well as sickle cell anemia. There are now many advanced
diagnostic tests available that can give doctors much more information than just
a few short years ago.
Warts (Plantars Wart):
These are caused by a virus know as HPV or human papilloma virus. Children,
teens, and people with weakened immune systems are most often affected. The most
common area on the foot is the bottom or plantar surface. Depending on where
these are they can be very painful to treat. It is usually not necessary to
surgically remove them if they are an isolated wart. Most of the time these can
be treated locally with topical medicines.