Feet as the Source of Body Pain

Feet are the foundation of the body. They are at the root of your body’s alignment and balance, which is why shoe selection is so important. Shoes are not tailor made to your foot type, so the use of orthotics may be necessary to achieve proper alignment. A properly fitted arch will provide support to the rest of your body, keep you balanced and improve your posture.

If feet are not properly aligned, the rest of your body is thrown out of whack. This can cause pain in the ankles, knees, hips, lower back, even all the way up to your neck. The feet hold about a quarter of the body’s bones and several ligaments, so it is not surprising they can be the source of pain and discomfort throughout the body.

Your physician will be able to tell you if the pain you are experiencing is stemming from your feet. He may suggest the use of orthotics or individualized foot wear. 

Image by Sea Turtle. New Year, New Shoes. (2009). Flickr.

What do you know about toenail fungus?

1. Anyone can get nail fungus, but infections are more common in people over the age of:

A. 40

B. 50

C. 60

2. Nail fungus occurs when:

A. Fungus enters the nail through a small cut or break in the nail

B. Someone has poor hygiene

3. What are the best conditions for fungus to grow?

A. Cool, dry place

B. Warm, wet place

C. Cool, wet place

D. Warm, dry place

4. The medical term for nail fungus is:

A. Onychomycosis

B. Calcaneus

C. Hallux Valgus

5. True or False? Fungal infections occur in toenails more often than in fingernails.

6. Which is the least common symptom of toenail fungus?

A. Thick nails

B. Discolored nails

C. Pain in your toes

7. True or False? Toenail infections are more difficult to treat than fingernail infections.

8. The least common treatment for toenail fungus is:

A. Topical creams or gels

B. Oral medications

C. Removal of the nail

Check the comments below for the correct answers.

Unfortunately a toenail fungus will not usually go away on its own. The fungus will often last for years, even decades, and will probably continue to get worse unless you decide to have the problem addressed properly in a podiatry practice.

Image by Quinn Dombrowski. Toenail. (2010). Flickr.

Diagnostic Imaging for Foot Problems

Diagnostic imaging is used to diagnose a variety of foot problems. Some of the common tests include x-ray, ultrasound and MRI. Your doctor will decide which test(s) are appropriate to get a better look at your ailment. Take a closer look at what each test does.

X-Ray

A form of radiation focused into a beam that creates a picture. Dense tissue, such as bones, look white; less dense tissue, such as muscles, look gray; and air looks black.

X-rays can be done to:

• Detect a fracture or dislocation
• Detect fluid build up
• Detect changes in bones caused by infection, arthritis or bone growths

Ultrasound

Sound waves develop ultrasound images of what is happening inside the body. The echoes the sound waves make determine the size, shape and consistency of soft tissues and organs.

Ultrasounds can be done to:

• Detect soft-tissue injuries
• Diagnose bursitis, heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, Morton’s Neuroma, tendonitis, etc.

MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging uses a magnetic field and radio wave energy to create pictures of structures within the body.

MRIs can be done to:

• Provide more information about a problem seen on an x-ray or ultrasound
• Detect bone and joint problems
• Detect torn ligaments or tendons
• Detect infection

Image by Eric Schmuttenmaer. Right x-ray 002 - no info. (2006). Flickr.

Foot Surgery

Sometimes surgery may be necessary to fix problems with toes, feet or ankles. To minimize stress surrounding your procedure, be sure to ask your podiatrist as many questions as needed to fully understand the preparation required, the procedure itself, and the recovery. Having a good understanding will help you to be prepared during the entire process.

Diagnostic testing such as x-rays and MRI's may be utilized to determine if surgery is necessary. If it is, your physician may order tests such as blood draws and EKG’s to be sure your body is ready for such a procedure. It is important to share your complete medical history, medications you are on and any known allergies you have.

Your physician will explain the mechanics of the procedure and how it will correct your issue. Make a list of questions you want answered. Some good things to know are:

• Where will the surgery take place – in the office or a hospital setting?
• What kind of anesthesia will I be given? Will I be awake or asleep during the surgery?
• Will I need someone to drive me home?
• What do I need to do the day before and morning of my surgery?
• Will I be prescribed medication?
• How long will recovery be?

The longest conversation you have with your doctor will likely be about the recovery. You’ll want to know if you will have splints, casts, surgical shoes, crutches, etc. and how long it will take until you are able to put pressure on your foot. Recovery time depends on the type of surgery you are having.

Getting all of your questions answered will help you on your road to recovery.

Image by Stacey Kirainpdx. My foot all wrapped up at the podiatrist office. (2009). Flickr.

Foot and Ankle Swelling

Swelling is common in the lower extremities and can occur for a variety of reasons. Feet and ankles can increase in size or change in shape due to a collection of body fluid, tissue growth or abnormal movement of tissue.

Heat

Standing or sitting in the same position in the heat for an extended time can cause swelling in the feet and ankles.

Injury

Injuries like a sprained ankle or stubbed toe can be accompanied by swelling. It is best to rest, ice, compress and elevate the foot.

Lymphedema

A collection of lymphatic fluid in the tissues, lymphedema can occur because of problems with the lymph vessels.

Venous Insufficiency

Blood flows up from the feet to the heart. When blood vessels become weakened, blood can leak back down the vessel and cause fluid retention in the soft tissue of the ankles and feet. 

Disease

Certain heart, liver or kidney diseases can cause swelling in the lower extremities.

Medications

Swelling in the feet and ankles is a possible side effect of certain medications.

Swollen feet can be painful. Talk to you doctor if swelling does not subside. He will be able to find the source of the swelling and may be able to help reduce it.

Image by karendotcom127. IMG_1518. (2008). Flickr.