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.