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.