2014 Foot Review

How much did you learn this year? Test your knowledge on topics we covered in 2014. The answers are listed in the comments.

1. What is the most common culprit of burning feet?

2. A sprain is damage to “blank” and a strain is damage to “blank” and “blank”.

3. If icing an injury, it is safe to ice the area for how many minutes per hour?

4. True or false? Shoe inserts are the same thing as orthotics.

5. Plantar Fasciitis and Rectocalcaneal Bursitis are ailments of what part of the foot?

6. True or false? Hammer toes, claw toes and mallet toes are most commonly due to tight shoes.

7. Gout causes a pain in which toe?

8. Extra bone that forms on top of normal bone is known as what?

9. Bunions are: a) an area of thick skin caused by pressure b) a foot deformity in which the end of the toe curls downward c) an enlargement of bone or tissue around the joint at the base of the big toe

10. Are warts the result of an infection or a virus?

Image by Sally Mahoney. Happy New Year to my flickr friends. (2006). Flickr.

Preventing Foot Warts

Foot warts can potentially reoccur even after treatment. Taking a few steps to prevent warts can help to avoid the pain and frustration of this foot ailment. Use this list as a guide to keeping your feet healthy.

1. Warts are the result of a virus. Wearing shoes in public places can help to prevent the virus from entering the body through small cut or cracks on the soles of the feet. Sandals should be worn at pools and in public bathrooms and showers.
2. Viruses love moist environments. Keep feet clean and dry. Make sure to change socks on a daily basis, or more often if feet become sweaty.
3. Check feet weekly. You should have skin changes checked out by a physician right away.
4. Warts are contagious. You should avoid direct skin to skin contact with someone you know has a wart.
5. Don’t share towels, socks or shoes with others. You don’t know who may be carrying the virus.
6. If you do have a wart, keep it covered with a bandaid to prevent spreading it to others.

There are a variety of treatments to take care of foot warts. Your physician will be able to explain your options and recommend the best treatment for you. He will also tell you how to best prevent future warts. 

Image by Lizard10979. Summer Feet. 2010. Flickr.

Minor Foot Problems

Minor problems with toes, feet and ankles are very common. Symptoms can develop from normal wear and tear, overuse, aging, injuries, etc. If suffering from minor foot problems such as sprains, stiffness and swelling, there are steps you can take to care for your feet at home.

• Elevate your feet to relieve pressure.
• Remove restrictions such as jewelry or tight socks.
• Stay away from activities that make your foot feel worse.
• Trade your high impact exercises for low impact activities.
• Ice areas that are swollen.
• Wear proper footwear.
• Stretch feet to ease strains.
• Massage feet to promote circulation.

If home treatments do not help your foot problem, it is best to see a physician. He will be able to properly diagnose your problem, suggest treatments and get you on the road to recovery. 

Image by Sarah Laval. Bare Feet. (2008). Flickr.

What do you know about bunions?

Test your knowledge on bunions. Find the answers in the comments section.

1.       Bunions are:

a.       An area of thick skin caused by pressure

b.      A foot deformity in which the end of the toe curls downward

c.       An enlargement of bone or tissue around the joint at the base of the big toe

2.       A bony bump at the base of the little toe is called:

a.       Bunionette

b.      Tailor’s bunion

c.       Both A and B

3.       Which is not a cause of bunions:

a.       Flat feet

b.      Wearing shoes that are too tight

c.       Friction on an area of skin

d.      Too much pronation

4.       Bunions cause the big toe to bend

a.       Away from the other toes

b.      Toward the other toes

5.       True or false: A bunion can cause a hammer toe?

6.       Symptoms may include:

a.       Pain in the big toe

b.      Red/irritated skin over the bunion

c.       There may be no symptoms

d.      All of the above

7.       If you have a bunion, it helps to wear shoes that:

a.       Have a high heel

b.      Are narrow

c.       Have wide and deep toe boxes

8.       True or false: Medicine can prevent or cure bunions.

If you think you may have a bunion, make an appointment with your physician. He will want to know when the bunion started, what activities or shoes make the pain worse and if any other joints hurt. He will also do an examination to check the range of motion in your toe. Sometimes x-rays are used to check for bone problems.

Image by Charles Chan. ???. (2007). Flickr.

A Caregivers Guide to Diabetic Foot Care

If you are a caregiver or family member helping someone manage their diabetes, read these important tips about how to help them avoid foot problems.

Prevent ingrown toenails by trimming straight across with a nail clipper and smoothing with an emery board. Do not round off the corners. Caregivers should check toenails once a week for swelling and other signs of infection.

Caregivers should encourage keeping feet clean, dry and moisturized. It is best to avoid hot water and soaking feet, which can lead to dry skin. Remind your patient to keep feet moisturized.

Teach your patient how to do a self-check on their feet. The sooner problem spots are found, the better. Utilizing a hand-held mirror can be helpful in identifying blisters, sores, etc. Small problems like corns, calluses or cuts can cause serious problems for anyone with diabetes. Caregivers can help to smooth out corns and calluses with a pumice stone. Minor cuts should be kept clean with soap and water.

Caregivers should be sure their patient has the proper footwear. It is important to wear protective and supportive shoes that do not cause blisters or cuts. Socks should not be so tight that circulation is cut off.

Being a caregiver is an important job and can make a huge impact in the life of the one you are helping. If you have any questions regarding diabetic foot care, please call our office for more information.

Image by andy_5322. My Foot - 4. (2006). Flickr.

Bone Spurs

A bone spur is extra bone that forms on top of normal bone. Feet are a common place for bone spurs to appear. They can cause pain and other problems if they rub on other bones, ligaments, tendons or nerves. Bone spurs can form due to:

• Aging – Cartilage breaks down over time and can cause bone spurs to form along the edges of the joint.
• Tight ligaments
• Stress on the feet due to sports and activities
• Extra pressure from being overweight
• Poorly fitting shoes

It is possible to have bone spurs and not know it, as many cases do not cause any symptoms. Many bone spurs do not require treatment. However, if you are experiencing pain or discomfort, or if the spur is damaging other tissue, then your physician can recommend a course of treatment to ease your symptoms. Treatments include:

• Stretching
• Rest
• Orthotics
• Icing the area
• Steroid injections or ibuprofen
• Surgery

Bone spurs on the foot most commonly affect toes and heels. If you notice a bump on one of those areas, check with your physician to see if it could be a bone spur

Image by Debra Roby. Toe Pre-surgery. (2007). Flickr.

Healthy Feet are Happy Feet

When you think of staying healthy, you may think “eat right” and “exercise”. Of course these are at the root of a healthy lifestyle, but there is more to it than just that. Following these simple tips can help you to take proper care of your feet and prevent toe, foot or ankle problems from arising.

1. Keep feet clean, dry and moisturized.
2. Properly fitting shoes are essential to good foot health. Shoes should not pinch, should be comfortable and should provide support.
3. Maintain a reasonable weight. Added weight can add extra stress to the lower extremities.
4. Wear socks that are breathable and non-constricting.
5. Walking regularly can improve circulation and increase flexibility.
6. Cut toe nails straight across to prevent ingrown toe nails.
7. Do foot exercises and stretches to keep muscles limber.
8. Massaging feet can release tension and boost circulation.
9. Do foot checks. If anything looks out of the ordinary, or your are experiencing pain, see a physician. 

Image by Pink Sherbert Photography. Woman's Feet Holding Pink Rose Fresh Pedicure. (2009). Flickr.

Facts about Gout

Gout is a form or arthritis that strikes without warning, most often causing intense pain in the big toe. It is brought on by excess uric acid in the blood.

Common Facts about Gout

·         It affects over 2 million Americans

·         It is rare in children and young adults, is more common in men, and is more prone to affect women after menopause

·         Mild cases can be controlled by diet

·         Recurring attacks can cause damage to bones, cartilage and kidneys if not treated

·         Excess alcohol consumption increases your chance of gout

·         It was once known as the “disease of kings” since it was mainly diagnosed in rich men who drank and ate in excess

·         Vulnerability to gout can be inherited

·         Gout can accompany injuries, hospitalizations, periods of stress, tumors, high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity

Any gout attack should be followed by a trip to the doctor. Even if pain subsides, your uric acid levels need to be checked.  Your physician may give you a steroid or prescribe medication to stop your attack. Anti-inflammatory medication can be taken to help ease pain, but avoid aspirin, which can raise uric acid levels in the blood.

Image by Lars Plougmann. Opposable Big Toe. (2011). Flickr.

Pattern of Shoe Wear

Taking a close look at your shoes and studying the wear patterns can help you in choosing your next pair of shoes. Here is what common wear patterns say about your shoe needs:

If the tread across the heel, the ball of the foot and underneath the big toe are all worn evenly, it is likely you have a healthy stride, and that particular shoe is a good fit for you.

If there is wear on the outside of the shoe only, it is likely you hit the ground with the outside edge of the foot. High arches can restrict the foot’s inward roll and cause excess pressure on the leg when landing. Wearing well cushioned shoes can help absorb the impact.

If there is significant wear on the heel and ball of the foot, it is likely you roll your feet inward upon landing. Flat arches can cause this inward rotation. Wearing shoes with extra arch support and a more durable sole can help limit that inward roll.

If there is wear on the heel down to the midsole, it is likely you are over-striding. Foot rotation happens mid-air leaving your heel to absorb all the impact. Wearing shoes that offer extra protection in the heel can take away some of the shock during landing.

Image by Erno Mijland. IMG_8605.JPG. (2009). Flickr.

Ankle Sprains

Sprained ankles are very common and can occur at any time. Whether you twist it during a sport, miss a step or just land on it funny, a sprained ankle can result in long term problems. If you experience repeated sprains or a severe sprain, it is best to see a physician. If left untreated, it is possible to develop ongoing joint pain and weakness.

Within a few days of your injury, you should begin range of motion exercises, stretching, strength training and balance exercises. Doing these consistently for a few weeks or months will help the ankle to heal completely and will prevent re-injury. It is also important to give your ankle support by wearing appropriate shoes for the activity at hand. You may also consider taping your ankle if you are participating in a vigorous activity.

If your ankle does not seem to be healing properly after a couple weeks, make an appointment with your physician. He will examine your ankle to determine the best course of treatment to prevent long term pain and weakness.

Image by Jason Eppink. Victory Ankle Roll. (2012). Flickr.

Hammer, Claw and Mallet Toes

Toes that are bent in odd ways and/or hurt should not be ignored. Hammer, claw and mallet toes may be treatable without surgery if caught early. It is best to get a physical examination and it is important to discuss with your physician the kinds of shoes you wear, how much time is spent walking/standing per day, any pain in the feet, and when you first noticed the problem. Common toe problems include:

Hammer Toes

A hammer toe bends down at the middle joint causing the joint to rise up.

Claw Toes

Claw toes bend up at the joint where the toes meet the foot, bend down at the middle joint, and bend down at the joint in the tip of the toe, causing toes to bend downward.

Mallet Toes

A mallet toe bends down at the joint in the tip of the toe.

These toe problems likely will appear in the four smaller toes, not the big toe, and they are most commonly due to tight shoes. If toe muscles are forced to stay in a bent position for too long, over time straightening the toe will become harder.

Image by Quinn Mattingly. Toes. (2007). Flickr.

Toenail Abnormalities

Clubbed Toes

What they look like: Nails appear rounded on top and curve downward.

Why it happens: Clubbed toes are a symptom of lung disease, heart disease, liver and digestive disorders, or certain infections. It can also be hereditary, and not causes by any underlying disease.

Spoon Shaped Toenails:

What they look like: Nails appear concave in a spoon-like shape.

Why it happens: Spoon shaped toenails can be the result of frequent exposure to petroleum-based solvents. It can also be a side effect of iron deficiency.

Yellow Toenails:

What they look like: Nails appear thickened and yellow in color.

Why it happens: Yellow toenails are most commonly the result of a fungal infection. They can also be due to lymphedema, lung problems, psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis.

Pitted Toenails:

What they look like: Depressions in the surface of the nail.

Why it happens: Pitting occurs because of a disruption in the growth of the nails at the nail plate. This is a common occurrence for those with psoriasis. 

Image by Nicholas A. Tonelli. Floored. (2005). Flickr.

Cold Feet

Now that it is officially fall, you may need to pull out the warm wool socks soon. It is common for lower extremities to feel cold during this time of year, but persistently cold toes can be a signal of an underlying health problem.

Bad Circulation

Circulatory problems can cause feet to always feel cold. Poor blood flow is linked to smoking, high blood pressure and heart disease.

Diabetes

Diabetes can cause nerve damage, or neuropathy, that can make your feet feel cold. High blood glucose levels interfere with the transmission of signals that the nerves send out.

Raynaud’s Disease

This is a common condition triggered by cold weather or stress. Blood vessels temporarily spasm, blocking blood flow. Toes will turn white, blue, then red as blood flow returns to the area.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid is underactive. This can cause sensitivity to the cold, causing feet to feel cold often.

Image by Craig Sunter. New Socks Required. (2014). Flickr.

Foot Pain

Pain in the foot can take on many forms. The bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments of the feet can all cause pain.

Pain along the bottom of the foot (arch) could be plantar fasciitis.

Pain of the big toe could mean gout.

Pain of the joints in the feet, ankle and toes could be rheumatoid arthritis.

Pain in the back of the heel could be due to an Achilles tendon injury.

Pain during walking or standing could mean a heel spur.

Pain in the ball of the foot could be a condition called metatarsalgia.

Pain of the toe joints could be a symptom of claw toes.

Pain between the third and fourth toes could be Morton’s neuroma.

Any pain you are experience in your feet should not be ignored. If it persists, it should be checked out by a physician.

Image by Sarah Laval. Bare Feet. (2008). Flickr.

Foot Infections

It is so easy to develop cuts on your feet that you may not even notice the abrasion until it starts to cause pain. Stubbing your toe, walking barefoot or cutting nails too short are just a few ways to break the skin. It is important to take care of minor cuts immediately to avoid bigger problems. Typically cleaning them out, using an antibacterial ointment and bandaging the area will do the trick. Those with diabetes and certain blood disorders need to take special care because they may have a harder time fighting off infections from minor cuts.

If any of the following are true, it is time to see a physician.

The area is producing a discharge.

You have developed a fever along with the pain.

There is numbness in the area.

Swelling is increasing.

The infected area is spreading.

The area is very warm to the touch.

There is redness in the area.

Over the counter painkillers do not help to alleviate pain.               

If the area is not healing from non-prescription measures, it is important to get an examination by a physician. They will be able to correctly diagnose the infection and treat it accordingly. Do not leave infections untreated. 

Image by John Keane. Jul 19: Flip Flop Friction. (2011). Flickr.

The Benefits of Yoga for your Feet

Proper foot care is important to the overall health of your body. The feet hold a lot of responsibility. Feet bear the weight of the entire body, propel the body during walking and running, and help the body balance during movement. The body lines up over the feet. When your foot goes out of alignment, it can throw off your ankle, knee, pelvis and back.

Yoga is a great way to practice proper alignment of the feet while strengthening and lengthening muscles and increasing flexibility. If feet are in proper alignment, the rest of the body will follow. Feet and toes play a significant role in yoga. As the foundation of the body, feet need to be strong so the rest of the body can be strong. Yoga can help to increase circulation, reduce leg cramps, reduce swelling, and increase balance. 

One easy yoga pose to try at home is the squat with toe stretch. Kneel down with toes tucked under. This is a great way to stretch the bottom of the feet and break up tension in the sole of the foot. 

Image by Taro Taylor. Bondi Beach Yoga. (2008). Flickr.

Checking Children's Feet

Examining feet frequently can help to identify problems that may need to be addressed. It is recommended that you examine your child’s feet and walking patterns in order to take care of issues early on.

Check the tops and bottoms of feet, as well as in-between toes. Some common foot problems that may be discovered are:

·         Ingrown toe nails

·         Blisters

·         Scratches and cuts

It is best keep broken skin clean and dry. Make sure to keep an eye on these areas to prevent infections.

Look for pressure areas, redness, warmth, and nail discoloration. These can be the sign of more serious problems that may require medical attention.  

 It is best to have your child evaluated by a physician if any of the following are true:

·         Feet turn in or out excessively

·         Your child complains of tired legs, heel pain, or leg/foot cramps

·         Shoes shows uneven wear patterns

 Image by Spiterman. Une histoire de pieds.(2010). Flickr.

Heel Pain

Heel pain can take on many forms and can stem from many causes.

Plantar Fasciitis: The tissue connecting the heel bone to the base of the toes becomes inflamed and causes pain under the heel. This can develop from extra stress on the feet, repetitive activities, aging, high arches, etc. Stretches, medication or shoe inserts may be necessary.

Heel Spur: A calcium deposit develops from consistent plantar fasciitis. Heel spurs do not always cause pain, and can be diagnosed via x-ray. Rest, stretches, and shoe inserts may be necessary.

Rectocalcaneal Bursitis: Inflammation of area where the Achilles tendon inserts into the heel bone. This is usually brought on by running or improperly fitting shoes. Pain can be gradual, skin can thicken, the area can become red and swollen, and a bump can develop. Rest, Achilles stretches, heel inserts, ice or medication may be necessary. 

Image by Caitlin Regan. Feet. (2009). Flickr.

Shin Splints

It is common to develop shin splints if you are an avid runner. They may appear after increasing the intensity of your workout or changing the surface you run on - i.e. going from running on trails to running on concrete. Most commonly, shin splints feel like a throbbing ache in your shin area. They can be caused by overused muscles, stress fractures, or flat feet. If you are experiencing this type of pain during or after your workout, it is time to consider seeing a doctor.

Rest, ice, anti-inflammatory painkillers, shin stretches and orthotics can help to heal shin splints.  Your physician may do an x-ray to see if any bones are fractured. While healing, it is best to avoid high impact workouts. Changing to something like swimming will give your body time to heal.

To help prevent this injury, wear shoes that provide the support you need. Shoes should be bases on the type of arch you have and the way you run. You should always warm up before exercising and stop if you feel pain.

Image by Chris Hunkeler. Woman Triathlete. (2013). Flickr.

Community Associated MRSA

MRSA is a bacterium that causes infections in different areas of the body. It is tough to treat because it is resistant to some antibiotics. MRSA is spread by contact and is most common among people in hospitals or nursing homes. It does however appear in healthy people who have not been hospitalized. This type of MRSA is called Community-Associated MRSA (CA-MRSA). CA-MRSA infections can develop around minor foot problems such as athlete’s foot, calluses, corns, eczema, ingrown toe nails and psoriasis. If these problems create cracks in the skin, it is possible for bacteria to get into the body. CA-MRSA can be picked up in fitness centers, schools, community pools, and other public places.

If you have infected cuts, scrapes, or cracks on your feet that are not healing in a timely manner, it should be checked out by a physician. 

Image by DLSimaging. More Feet. (2011). Flickr.

Congenital Foot Problems

There are many different types of foot problems you can experience; some are genetic and appear at birth. These conditions are called congenital foot problems. A few congenital problems include:

Clubfoot

Most types of clubfoot appear at birth, and can take on a variety of characteristics. Clubfoot is a term used for any of the following; the foot is smaller than normal, pointed downward, twisted inward at the ankle, etc. Clubfoot can affect one or both feet, can be mild or severe, and usually can be treated successfully by a physician. Treatment should begin immediately to avoid problems as the child grows.

Digital Deformities

Digital deformities include underlapping toes, overlapping toes and hammertoes. These toes that do not lay straight can cause discomfort and affect normal movement. If these are congenital problems and are discovered at birth, treatment can begin early.

Webbed Toes

Webbed/conjoined toes are the fusion of two or more toes. This does not generally cause any other health problems, so surgery is typically not necessary, but an option to discuss with your physician. 

Image by RoseAnnaDana. PB240109.sm. (2012). Flickr.

Bunionette

A bunionette is a bony protuberance on the outer side of the pinky toe. The deformity can become larger and more painful over time due to the growth of the bump. Bunionettes are most commonly developed from feet rubbing against the inside of shoes. If you are experiencing redness, swelling, pain on the outside of the pinky toe and notice a bump, it may be a bunionette. It is best to see a podiatrist to get an accurate diagnosis and a course of treatment.

Bunionettes can usually be treated non-surgically by:

• Wearing roomier shoes that do not cause friction against the area
• Padding the pinky toe
• Using custom inserts in your shoes
• Treating the inflamed area with medication like corticosteroid

If those methods do not help to alleviate your symptoms, surgery may be necessary. Surgery usually involves the removal of the painful soft tissue. 

Image by Jorge in Brazil. Feet 1. (2013). Flickr.

Custom Orthotics

Orthotics can correct a number of problems in the feet. There are three types of orthotics; rigid, semi-rigid and soft. Rigid orthotics are used to correct pains in the legs, thighs and lower back, foot strains, and arch problems. Semi-rigid orthotics are used to correct balance. Soft orthotics are used to help alleviate arthritis and foot problems caused by diabetes.

You may think the process of getting measured for a custom orthotic is involved, but it can be taken care of in a quick visit to the podiatrist. Your physician will examine your feet and how you walk, measure your foot, and capture a 3D image of each foot. This information is used to create your custom support.

Shoe inserts are not the same thing as orthotics. Inserts can be found at the grocery store, at kiosks in the mall and online. Orthotics are devices prescribed by a physician and created specifically for your foot. Inserts cannot correct biomechanical foot problems or cure long-standing foot issues.  It is best to see a podiatrist to decide if custom support is right for you.

Image by Douglas Muth. My orthotic shoe inserts. (2010). Flickr.

Foot Ulcers

Foot ulcers can easily be mistaken for blisters, but are more serious and require medical attention. They can lead to serious wounds and infections if left untreated. Blisters and ulcers do differ in appearance; a blister is a pocket of fluid beneath the skin, whereas a foot ulcer is an open wound. Foot ulcers are most commonly found on the ball of the foot, the bottom of the big toe or the side of the foot.

If you notice an open wound on your foot, it is best to see a podiatrist. He will examine the area to see if it is infected, clean the area and remove any dead skin. An x-ray may be necessary to be sure infection has not spread to the bone.

If you have diabetes, you may be at an increased risk for developing foot ulcers.  It is estimated that 15% of diabetics will have a foot ulcer at some point. It may take weeks or months for ulcers to heal

Image by Corey Balazowich. Cold Feet. (2007). Flickr.

Bug Bites on Feet

There is nothing like the sting of a mosquito bite to help take the fun out of your summer night. Getting bug bites on your feet can be extra annoying due to the irritation of the area when wearing shoes. The best thing to do is to try to prevent the bites from happening.

When spending time outside during the night opt for a shoe that covers your entire foot. Sandals leave your feet vulnerable to mosquitos. If you do have your feet exposed, be sure to cover them in bug spray.

If you do get bitten, the best thing to do is not scratch the bite. If you scratch enough to cause an opening in the skin, it is an open invitation for bacteria to get in. To relive itch, you can apply an anti-itch cream or an ice pack direct on the bite.

Image by John Tann. Yellow Fever Mosquito. (2009). Flickr.

Foot Burns

Getting a burn on your foot can be both painful and irritating. Whether you were cooking barefoot or dropped a hot coal off the grill, many mild burns can be treated easily by taking the following steps:

Rinse the Burn

Place the burned area under cool water. Rinsing for 15 – 30 minutes should cause the pain to subside and should lower your skin’s temperature, preventing the burn from becoming worse. You can submerge your foot in a tub of water or apply a cold compress direct to the affected area. Avoid using ice and ice cold water, as they can cause tissue damage.

Clean the Burn

Remember to wash your hands before handling the area. If your skin blisters and breaks, be extra careful. Open blisters can easily become infected, so do not intentionally break the blister. Clean the burn with a mild soap and water, pat dry with a clean cloth, and smear on an antibiotic ointment.

Bandage the Burn

If your skin has not broken, you only need to bandage if you anticipate the area getting dirty or getting irritated by socks or shoes. If the skin has broken, a bandage should be used. Wrap the bandage loosely and change it if it gets wet or dirty.

Remember to elevate your leg often during the first couple days. This will decrease swelling. If your burn is painful, swollen, and seems to be getting worse, see a physician for further treatment options.

Image by Ms. Glaze. Fire. (2007). Flickr.

Sun Safety for Feet

Summer is a time for packing in all kinds of outdoor activities. Using an SPF is essential to keep your skin safe from sun exposure. The main focus is typically those areas that burn easily – face, ears, shoulders. However, you need to protect all areas from the sun – even your feet.

When spending time outdoors, be sure to apply sunscreen to the tops and bottoms of the feet, and even between the toes. Wearing shoes that cover the feet and limiting time outside while the UV rays are strongest are also great ways to protect your feet.

It is most important to check your feet frequently. If you discover changes, it is best to get the opinion of a physician. When inspecting moles and freckles – any new spots or changes in size, shape or color of existing spots need to be addressed. Also check for nail or skin discoloration and new sores.

It is possible to develop basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and even malignant melanoma on your feet. Don’t forget to check the bottoms of your feet, between toes and under toenails for new spots. 

Image by Shanna Waller. Blocked Sun. (2011). Flickr.

Eczema on Feet

The summer heat can trigger eczema on the feet. Eczema can be itchy, painful and bothersome, so it is best to take special care of your feet in order to prevent dryness. Here are a few tips how:

Socks may be the cause of your dry itchy feet. Stick to natural fiber cotton socks to get the most breath-ability. Synthetic fibers, wool and spandex can irritate the skin. If your feet tend to sweat, switch out your socks when they become damp. The wetness can worsen eczema.

Try to avoid long hot showers, as hard as that may be. They are not the best for your skin. Taking short, lukewarm showers can prevent dry skin. Use a mild moisturizing soap on feet.

If you have cracks on your feet, you can soak them in lukewarm water for 10 minutes, pat dry, slather petroleum jelly and cover them with cotton socks. Wear them for at least 30 minutes.

Itchiness of the feet can also be due to athlete’s foot or other infections. It is best to seek the opinion of your podiatrist so your ailment can be treated correctly.

Image by Miss Messie. Blue Plastic Shoes. (2010). Flickr.

Fun Historical Shoe Facts

• The earliest known shoes are sandals that date back to between 7,000 and 8,000 BC.
• The first shoes were made from animal skins and leather cord.
• Thong sandals date back to 4,000 BC and were made from papyrus leaves, rawhide, wood, rice straw, etc.
• The ancient Romans were the first to construct distinct left and right shoes. Before that, shoes could be worn on either foot.
• Shoe sizes were devised in England by King Edward II who declared in 1324 that the diameter of one barely corn (a third of an inch) would represent one full shoe size. This is still true today.
• The record for the world’s largest feet belongs to Matthew McGrory who wears US size 28 1/2 shoes.

Image by Pedro Ribeiro Simoes. Roman Sandal. (2010). Flickr.

The Basics on Foot Arches

An easy way to figure out your foot type is to get your foot wet and step on a surface that will leave your mark; concrete or a paper bag work well. Seeing half your arch means a neutral arch, seeing your entire foot means flat feet and seeing a thin line between the ball of the foot and heel means high arches.

You should choose your shoes based on your arch type.

Neutral Arches

If you have a normal arch, you can wear any shoe that feels comfortable. It is a good idea to choose something with built in support, cushioning and a rigid heel.

Flat Feet

You should wear spacious shoes with good arch support and padding in the heel. A podiatrist may recommend getting fitted for custom inserts. They balance the foot in a neutral position.

High Arches 

High arches can require extra cushioning, a softer platform and a slightly raised heel.

It is important to find shoes with the proper arch support if you have flat feet or high arches because you are more likely to develop plantar fasciitis, pain in your feet and legs ,and/or bunions and hammertoes.

Image by christsna.ch. Shoes. (2013). Flickr.

Nail Diseases and Disorders

Nail diseases and disorders can come in many different forms; discoloration, thickening, splitting, brittleness, etc. Here are a just a few nail disorders that will require medical attention:

Onychorrhexis

Brittle nails that can split vertically and peel. This can be hereditary or due to using strong solvents, such as cleaning solutions.

Onychauxis

Over-thickening of the nail. This can be due to an internal disorder.

Beau’s Lines

Horizontal lines on the nail. This is due to any interruption in the protein formation of the nail plate, such as trauma, illness or malnutrition.

Koilonychia

Concave nails with raised ridges. This can be due to iron deficiency.

Pterygium

Skin growth over the nail plate. This can be the result of a surgical procedure or a deep cut to the nail plate.

Melanonychia

Vertical pigmented bands. This can be due to melanoma or a lesion.

If you notice any of these symptoms on your toenails, it is best to see a physician to get an accurate diagnosis and a plan of treatment. 

Image by Jorge in Brazil. Toes. (2013). Flickr.