10 common foot problems
We will now describe 10 common foo problems. For many of these conditions, a podiatrist will be able to help.
1. Plantar asciitis – this is a condition in which the thick band of tissue (plantar fascia) that runs along the bottom of the foot fbecomes inflamed, causing heel pain.
2. Athlete’s foot – a fungal infection (called tinea pedis) that typically affects the skin between the toes and on the soles of the feet. It can cause itching, burning, and cracking.
3. Bunion – a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe. It can cause the big toe to lean toward the second toe, resulting in pain and discomfort.
4. Ingrowing toenail – occurs when the corner of a toenail grows into the flesh, causing pain, redness, and swelling.
5. Corns and calluses – areas of thick, hardened skin that develop as a result of pressure or friction. They can be painful and unsightly.
6. Verruca – these are viral warts on the feet. They are caused by human papilloma virus (HPV). They appear as small, hard growths on the soles of the feet.
Typical verrucas
7. Flat feet – a condition in which the arch of the foot collapses, causing pain and discomfort.
8. High arch – a condition in which the arch of the foot is raised, causing pain and discomfort.
9. Heel spur – bony growths that form on the heel bone and can cause pain when standing or walking.
10. Cellulitis – a common acute bacterial skin infection that affects the deep layers of the skin and subcutaneous tissues. Common bacterial causes include Streptococcus pyogenes and Staphylococcus aureus.
It is usually spontaneous but can be secondary to skin injuries, insect bites or foreign bodies in the skin. Any break in the skin can lead to cellulitis. It commonly occurs in the lower leg and foot. It can range from a mild problem requiring oral antibiotics to a life-threatening one requiring hospital admission.
Typical cellulitis
Summary
We have described 10 common foot problems. We hope it has been helpful.
Last Reviewed on 5 April 2024