December 2019

Corns are thickened areas on the skin’s surface, to the point of being irritating and sometimes painful. Commonly found on the feet, corns are circular or cone-shaped. They develop where there are areas of pressure or friction, such as on the little toe when it rubs up against shoes, or on the ball of your foot.

Corns are often confused with a callus, but there is a difference between them. Corns can be raised bumps that are painful to the touch. They consist of a rough, thick area of skin that may be dry or waxy. Corns tend to be surrounded by skin that is inflamed, and are usually much smaller than calluses.

Removing the dead skin that has built up is the key in treating corns. Salicylic acid medication is most common in accomplishing this. The acid works by dissolving keratin, which is the protein that makes up the majority of corns. You can purchase salicylic acid over-the-counter in products such as wart removers. It comes in a variety of forms such as medicated pads, drops, or creams. However, people who are diabetic should not use salicylic acid, but should instead consult their doctor immediately.

According to the product directions, applying the medication directly onto the corn will treat it. The top layer of the corn will begin to turn white after use. When that occurs, the layers of skin can then be peeled away, making the corn smaller. Shaving off corns with razors or other pedicure equipment is never a good idea. This can lead to infection. If your corn gets infected, and is not treated immediately, a visit to the doctor will be necessary.

Another way to treat corns and help prevent their return is by using orthotic inserts, fitted by a podiatrist. Inserts fit right into your shoes and adjusts the way your foot fits into your shoes. This fixes the way you walk. This will lower your chances of getting corns, and eliminate current corns by reducing rubbing from friction.

Surgery is rarely used to treat corns, but does occur on occasion. Surgery actually deals with the underlying issue that causes corns. During surgery, the bone is shaved and any abnormalities are corrected, thus reducing the amount of friction that occurs during walking.

To prevent corns, the first step is reducing friction. Always wear shoes that fit well and don’t rub your feet. Pads can be purchased if you notice rubbing developing. These pads can be purchased over-the-counter, and can be simply placed on the irritated area. Wearing cushioned insoles in your shoes can always reduce the friction, and making sure to wear well-fitting shoes. This will ensure that your foot is not being squeezed awkwardly, and prevent corns from forming in the first place.

Elderly Americans are very susceptible to falls as they get older. Everyone experiences decreases in flexibility, balance, strength, and the senses as they age. This correlates to some eye-opening statistics. 1 in 4 Americans aged 65 and older fall each year. An elderly American is being treated for a fall in an emergency room every 11 seconds. In light of these striking statistics, one can see the importance of taking steps to prevent falls.

Finding an exercise program for the elderly is an excellent way to reduce the likelihood of falls. Look for an exercise program that improves strength and balance. Elderly people who live a more sedentary lifestyle, with little physical activity, are at an increased risk of falling. Wearing well-fitted footwear that provides good foot support and cushion will help prevent falls from poorly fitted shoes. Talking to a podiatrist about your susceptibility to falls and about inspecting your prescriptions will help to avoid any medication that could make falls more likely. Due to a decline in the senses among the elderly, having your eyes and hearing checked is recommended.

Around half of all falls occur in the household. Removing tripping hazards in the home and making it more accommodating to older persons can significantly reduce falls. Some notable household changes include increasing lighting around the house, installing grab bars in the shower and bathroom, and making sure the floor is clear of clutter. Other smart options include installing a shower chair, using rubber-bottomed rugs, and placing railings on both sides of stairwells.  

Finally, discuss with a doctor and your family about your fear of falling. This will help to increase awareness among the population on the need for fall prevention. A lack of awareness on the matter, and a downplaying of importance are what increase the risks of falling. Following these tips can help to reduce the risk for yourself and your loved ones.

Ankle foot orthotics are shoe inserts that offer support to control the placement and movement of the ankle, correct deformities, and compensate for weakness. These inserts are used to stabilize the foot and ankle and provide toe clearance during the swing phase of gate.

Athletes often suffer foot problems because their feet are not being supported within the shoe. Ankle and foot orthotics are custom made inserts that alleviate stress on the foot. However custom orthotics should be prescribed by a podiatrist who specializes in customized footwear and orthotics design. These inserts are used by athletes for different reasons. Runners use orthotics to absorb shock at heel contact and to set up the forefoot for push-off. Basketball players wear them to control their forefeet while jumping and running.

The two main types of orthotics are over-the-counter orthotics and custom-made orthotics. To be eligible for custom orthotics, an examination of the foot and ankle will need to be completed. Afterward, both the foot and ankle will need to be casted and fitted for the proper orthotic. When the fitting process is complete, adjustments can be made to make sure everything fits perfectly.

Over the counter orthotics tend to be more popular than custom fit ones. Athletes who have less severe aches and pains in the foot, ankle or lower back area can use the over-the-counter version of orthotics. Unfortunately, over-the-counter orthotics tend to not work in treating severe injuries or ailments. Whenever you suspect you may need an ankle foot orthotic, you should consult with your podiatrist to determine which type of orthotic is right for you.

There are several systemic diseases, or diseases that affect the whole body, that either display symptoms in the feet or affect the health of the feet. Common systemic diseases that affect the overall health of the feet, and the patient’s ability to walk comfortably, include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis, among others.

In gout, which is caused by an excessive buildup of uric acid in the body, the most common symptoms of pain, inflammation, and redness occur at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint at the base of the big toe. Any excess levels of uric acid crystallize and are deposited in tendons, joints, and surrounding bone and muscle tissue. Gout is commonly treated with NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation and other drugs to lower uric acid levels in the body. Gout most commonly affects those who are overweight, have low protein diets and lead a more sedentary lifestyle.

Diabetes mellitus is an increase in the level of blood sugar in which the body cannot counteract with naturally occurring insulin in the body. The three types of diabetes, Type I, Type II and Gestational Diabetes, are all signs the body is either not producing enough insulin or is not efficiently using the insulin that is produced. Gestational diabetes only affects women who are pregnant and have never, prior to pregnancy, exhibited symptoms of the disease.

There are two main issues that affect the feet that are commonly caused by diabetes. They include diabetic neuropathy and peripheral vascular disease. Diabetic neuropathy can lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation. Peripheral vascular disease restricts the flow of blood to the foot and can, in extreme cases, lead to the necessity of amputating the foot. Peripheral issues that are caused by diabetes and can affect the foot include athlete’s foot, nail infections, corns, blisters, bunions, severe dry skin, plantar warts and ingrown toenails. These can all be attributed to the decrease of blood flow to the foot.

Neurological disorders and rheumatoid arthritis can also have severe impact on the health of the feet. Neurological disorders can affect the nerves in the main structure of the foot and cause loss of sensation and possible decreased muscle response. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect the bones and joint structures of the foot, making it impossible to walk normally without serious pain.

All systemic diseases that affect the foot can effectively be treated to minimize joint and muscle damage if they are diagnosed early and treated with medication and lifestyle therapy. Diabetes patients must monitor their blood sugar levels and work with their physician to keep their levels as close to normal as possible. Rheumatoid arthritis patients should work with their physician to ensure the proper medications are being taken to reduce the amount of damage to the joints of the body.

When it comes to taking care of our health, we often think about diet, exercise, and regular doctor visits. However, one key area that’s frequently overlooked is foot health. Our feet carry us through life—literally—and their condition has a significant impact on our overall well-being. Ignoring foot health can lead to discomfort, pain, and even affect mobility and quality of life.

In this blog, we’ll discuss why foot health is so essential and share some tips on how you can keep your feet in top shape.

The Importance of Foot Health

Your feet are the foundation of your body, supporting your weight and helping you move around. Any issues with your feet, whether it’s pain, discomfort, or deformities, can have a ripple effect on your overall health. Here’s how:

1. Foot Pain Affects Mobility

Foot pain caused by conditions such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, or heel spurs can make walking or standing difficult. This pain can limit your ability to exercise, perform daily tasks, and enjoy life to the fullest. Reduced mobility can lead to weight gain, loss of muscle tone, and even joint problems due to changes in the way you walk.

2. Foot Issues Can Indicate Underlying Health Problems

Sometimes, foot problems are a sign of more serious health conditions. For example, diabetes can cause neuropathy (nerve damage) in the feet, leading to reduced sensation and poor healing of wounds. Circulatory issues may also present as cold or discolored feet. Taking good care of your feet can help you detect and manage these larger health concerns.

3. Posture and Balance

Your feet are crucial for maintaining balance and proper posture. Misaligned feet, whether due to flat arches or other structural issues, can cause your body to compensate, leading to pain in the knees, hips, and lower back. Poor foot health can disrupt your body’s overall alignment, which impacts everything from how you walk to how you sit.

Tips for Maintaining Healthy Feet

Now that we understand the importance of foot health, let’s look at a few easy ways to keep your feet in good condition:

1. Wear Proper Footwear

Shoes that fit well and provide the right support can prevent many foot problems. Choose shoes that match the activity—whether it’s running, walking, or standing for long periods. Avoid wearing shoes that are too tight or high heels that can lead to foot deformities like bunions or hammertoes.

2. Practice Good Hygiene

Regularly washing your feet, trimming your toenails, and moisturizing dry areas can go a long way in maintaining healthy feet. Make sure to dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes, to prevent fungal infections like athlete’s foot.

3. Inspect Your Feet Regularly

Take the time to check your feet for any signs of problems, such as blisters, cuts, or changes in skin color. If you notice anything unusual, like persistent pain or swelling, it’s important to see a foot specialist before the issue worsens.

4. Stretch and Exercise Your Feet

Like any other part of the body, your feet need exercise to stay strong and flexible. Simple exercises, such as toe curls or stretching the Achilles tendon, can help prevent foot problems and improve your balance and flexibility.

5. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Excess body weight puts extra stress on your feet, which can lead to issues like plantar fasciitis or arthritis. By maintaining a healthy weight, you can reduce the pressure on your feet and lower your risk of developing foot pain or injuries.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you’re experiencing ongoing foot pain, discomfort, or notice any abnormalities, it’s important to consult a podiatrist. At Cascade Foot & Ankle, our team of foot health specialists offers comprehensive care for all types of foot and ankle conditions. Whether you’re dealing with heel pain, ingrown toenails, or a sports-related injury, we’re here to help you get back on your feet.

Don’t wait until a small issue becomes a big problem—contact us today to schedule an appointment and ensure your feet stay healthy and strong.