FOOT PROBLEMS
Foot problems are one of the most common sources of pain that we as humans experience. Most of us are on our feet the majority of time during the day, and as the old saying goes, “when our feet hurt, we hurt all over”.
Foot problems can range from a simple blister on our toe to painful, disabling deformities such as bunions. Pain levels can range from the inability to wear shoes for a day or so to total disability. Fortunately, modern Podiatric care can offer treatment plans, either conservative or surgical, that will render those suffering from foot problems relief.
The most commonly treated foot problems are ingrown toenails, heel pain, warts, corns, calluses, flat feet, and bunions. Ankle sprains and strains are also frequently seen in the Podiatrists’ office. It is not uncommon that immediate relief can be offered a patient in one or two treatments by their Podiatrist. However, long term relief of these problems may require longer treatment plans or surgical correction. Surgery is usually performed either as an out-patient at a hospital or surgical center, or, for minor procedures, in the Podiatrists’ office. Depending on what procedure is performed, recovery times can range from one day to a few weeks.
One of the most common, painful complaints is ingrown toenails. These are caused when the nail breaks off under the skin due to trauma, improper trimming, or a nail deformity. This usually results in infection. Treatment requires removal of the offending nail portion. If the deformity or injury is severe enough, removal of the corresponding portion of nail root is also required. Reoccurrence is likely if this procedure is not performed. Warts, another common foot problem, are caused by a virus, and if the virus is not eliminated from the tissue, the problem continues. Heel pain, caused by spurs or plantar fasciitis usually respond favorably to conservative care with exercise, anti-inflammatory drugs, and custom shoe inserts called orthotics. Flat foot problems also respond well to orthotic therapy. Corns, calluses, and bunions, if not responsive to conservative care, respond well to surgical intervention.
Foot problems, although being one of the most common reasons for chronic pain and disability, can sometimes respond to conservative methods with some success. Many times, foot problems respond temporarily to “drug-store remedies”. These treatments are not for everyone, however. Patients suffering from circulatory disease, diabetes, lack of nerve sensation, poor vision and infections should not attempt to treat common foot problems by themselves. In these cases, the advice of a Podiatrist is recommended. When conservative therapy fails, surgery is usually the treatment of choice.
