Common Foot Problems

Article submitted by Dr. Brian Burg DPM of Lee Podiatry Group.
For more information, he can be reached at 239-540-3380.

Maintaining healthy feet is an essential part of living a full and active life. For those who are diabetic, foot care is paramount in preventing secondary problems. However other people, both old and young are affected by foot conditions. Here is a review of some of the more common podiatric problems as seen in our practice.

One of the most widespread problems that can affect t people of any age group is ingrown toenails. Genetic disposition to incurvated nails can play a role as well as shoe gear, growth patterns and poor nail care. Children and adolescents can frequently get ingrown nails and often times, due to poor communication with their parents, can lead to a severe infection. The toe is usually red, and generally painful to touch. Other times, thickening of the nail due to fungus-onychomycosis- can exacerbate and incurvated nail border and lead to an infection. Soaking the nail can help relieve symptoms and prevent re-occurrence. In recurrent situations, a more permanent procedure using a chemical to destroy the nail growth center-may be necessary.

Another common nail disorder is aforementioned onychomycosis, or fungus of the nail. There seems to be a larger distribution of the toenail fungus in the geriatric population, but is seen in all age groups. The nail will appear thick, discolored and have debris under the nail plate/. There are topical and oral treatments for onychomycosis. The oral medications appear to have a better cure rate, but there are associated risks-such as liver involvement-that require a blood test. The topical medications are not a systemic concern, but the application requires diligence and the cure rate is not as good as the oral medications.

Another common problem seen is heel pain. "Heel spurs or falling arches" are common names for a problem known as planter fasciitis. This usually presents as a sharp pain with the first step following a rest. This is a problem that generally responds to conservative treatments, such as NSAIDS, stretching and icing, physical therapy, cortisone injections, proper shoe gear and orthotics. Not all people4 respond to the same treatments and surgery is saved as a last resort.

Neuromas are a frequent finding in patients who complain of pain in the ball of the foot and seem to affect women more than men. Neuromas occur when there is an irritation of one or more of the nerves that innervate the toes, and the never becomes swollen and enlarged. The enlarged never is not seen but presents often times as a "shooting" Pain or the patient states they feel like they are walking on a "lump" in their sock. Conservative modalities are again usually successful in treating the condition.

Plantar warts-verrcac are blood viruses that appear as raised skin lesions. They have "specking dots" on the surface and are generally painful on side-to-side compression. Warts can stay dormant for long periods of time, recede away with no treatment or can spread to form many satellite warts. Treatments include occlusive dressings, acid application, laser removal, freezing, burning or surgical excision.

Gout is an extremely painful condition that is usually, but not always seen in the big toe joint. It presents as red, swollen joint that is painful to touch or move. A collection or uric acid crystals that are broken down from certain food groups such as cheese, wine and meats cause gout. Certain NSAIDS are excellent in controlling gout and chronic medication is needed in more severe cases.

These are just a few of the more common problems seen daily in our practice. Other problems include stress fractures, ulcers, bunions, hammertoes and all types of trauma. If you are a diabetic, and have a question about foot care or are suffering with one of these issues, consult a Podiatrist. Being proactive with your foot care will not only help you avoid serious problems, but it will also assure you that your feet will carry you throughout the rest of your life.