For a quarter-century, Catherine Ange has worked as a seller of high-end furniture at the Atlanta Decorative Arts Center. Before computers became a mainstay of the job, a typical day could find Ange bending down, standing on tiptoe or moving furniture across 22,000 square feet of showroom space — all while wearing shoes with a 3- to 4-inch heel.
“I thought, ‘I feel so good in these heels. I can sell anything. I am invincible,’ ” said Ange, 47, of Buckhead. Her feet, unfortunately, were not so resilient.
By the time she reached her 30s, Ange was feeling the pain — a sharp, stabbing pain in the ball of her foot. She tried alternating heels and flats, but soon even flats were uncomfortable. She went to a doctor for injections of anti-inflammatories. Eventually, the only thing left to treat her Morton’s neuroma — a condition that causes thickening and pain in the nerves between the toes — was surgery.
After four surgeries in three years, heels are a thing of the past. “It is no laughing matter when you can no longer wear your Chanel pumps,” said Ange, who mostly wears custom orthotic inserts in her boots or sturdy tennis shoes.
The kind of debilitating foot pain that Ange experiences is a common problem for high heel wearers, particularly women who have been wearing heels for many years.
About 25 percent of women older than 40 have severe foot problems related to shoe choice, said Katy Bowman, a biomechanics expert and author of “Every Woman’s Guide to Foot Pain Relief: The New Science of Healthy Feet” (BenBella Books, $17). The problems can range from short-term issues such as blisters and calluses to long-term structural damage to the feet or body, such as shortening of the calf muscles.
“There are a lot of people trying to work themselves out of foot pain,” said Bowman, whose book helps women understand the mechanics of the foot and explains how to transition from heels to more sensible shoes.
“We know barefoot is natural, but you can’t just take off your shoes and start running,” she said.
Bowman’s advice includes exercises to help ward off foot troubles — at least for a while, because some women seem unable to resist the lure of high heels.
“No matter what I say, they are going to [wear heels],” said Dr. Jay Spector, of Northside Podiatry, who advises wearing no more than a 2-inch heel ... ever. Serious foot pain related to high heels can develop in as little as one night or a few weeks, he said. If you must wear high heels, Spector said, wearing them for shorter periods of time, then switching to a shoe with a lower heel can help.
Margaret Lisi of Midtown, a marketing manager who’s in her mid-40s, learned just how quickly heels can hurt when a pair of new gray pumps did a number on her feet.
“I felt like my feet had been cut open,” said Lisi, describing the pain. “I walked out of my building to go home and didn’t even make it across the street. I took the shoes off and tiptoed all the way to my car.”
The next day, Lisi shoved her scarred feet into a pair of boots. “[My feet] were like little loaves of bread rising in the warm environment of my cowboy boots,” Lisi said.
Women may take such isolated experiences lightly, but anyone who consistently wears heels can experience more severe problems over time, said Dr. Jason Morris, of Primera Podiatry, a new practice opening in February that offers advanced podiatry services such as a laser center and medical foot spa.
“The most common problem for patients who wear high heels daily or more than two to three times per week is thinning of the fat pad at the ball of the foot,” Morris said.
The abnormal positioning of the foot in high heels creates pressure on the ball of the foot, which thins the protective layer of fat and leads to a painful condition called metatarsalgia, he said.
Morris uses a new treatment — an injection of the filler Sculptra — to replace the fat pad and plump the area. The treatment can last 12 to 18 months, he said.
Morris also has treated heel wearers for stress fractures and another problem, bunions, which are caused by weakening of ligaments that hold the foot bones together. Bunions are genetic, but wearing heels can speed their development, Morris said.
Bunion surgery landed Michele Caplinger, senior executive director of the Atlanta Chapter of the Recording Academy, in the operating room just over a year ago. After more than 20 years wearing 3-inch heels on a regular basis, Caplinger had developed painful bunions on both feet.
“The pain was gradual, but I would literally end up in tears an hour into wearing a pair of heels,” Caplinger said. “In my line of work, I have many events, and I have to dress up, so I was constantly in pain.”
She went to foot doctors at least once a year and all recommended surgery, but Caplinger was terrified. When Caplinger met Dr. Perry Julien, the pain had become unbearable. She consented to surgery and has since been pain free.
The experience made Caplinger more thoughtful about her footwear choices but not quite ready to leave heels behind. “I am back in heels,” she said. “I do find myself in better-made, more reasonable shoes. That is an easy choice to make when vanity is not a priority.”
Showing posts with label calluses. Show all posts
Showing posts with label calluses. Show all posts
Friday, February 10, 2012
Friday, November 4, 2011
Regular trips to a podiatrist will help keep you on your toes
It's all too easy to take healthy feet for granted — they take you where you want to go without complaint and don't ask for much in return. But, over time, those puppies can really start barking due to corns, calluses, bunions and other assorted ailments.
Many people are surprised to learn that the normal aging process affects feet as much as any other body part. Feet become wider and flatter, the protective fat pads on the soles thin out and circulation throughout the feet can decrease, all of which can lead to foot pain and damage. But you don't have to suffer alone. You — and your feet — need an ally. That's where a podiatrist comes in.
Doctors of podiatric medicine focus their practices entirely on the foot, ankle and lower leg. Their medical education and training includes four years of undergraduate education, four years of graduate education at an accredited podiatric medical college and two or three years of hospital residency training. Each state requires podiatrists to be licensed to practice there.
"We're primary physicians and specialists for the foot and ankle," says Dr. Marlene Reid, president of the Illinois Podiatric Medical Association. "That's all we do, which means it's best to go to a podiatrist for any foot or ankle condition, large or small."
Unlike many familiar screening guidelines, like getting your first mammogram at age 40 or your first colonoscopy at age 50, there is no definite rule about when to start seeing a podiatrist. "I always suggest coming in for an initial look once you're past your 30s," says Dr. Kirk Contento of Contento Foot & Ankle Center in Palos Heights and Chicago. "We're all about preventing little problems from developing into something major later."
Here are three common foot conditions that become all the more common as we age, and here's what to do about them.
1. Toenail fungus - Podiatrists suggest seeing a podiatrist whenever a nail thickens or becomes discolored. "The doctor can thin the nail, then medicate topically or orally and get the patient started on a good home treatment regimen," Contento says. "Fungal infections often thicken the nail, which can lead to a secondary problem of an ingrown nail." Lasers are also an emerging new treatment for this common problem.
2.Arch strain and heel pain - One word here: Orthotics. Either custom or over-the-counter are fine, as long as you receive adequate arch support. "The tendon that supports the foot's arches weakens over time due to decreased blood flow, which means your arch drops," says Reid. "It usually starts as a vague feeling of weakness or muscle strain and is often misdiagnosed as plantar fasciitis. People tend to ignore it but it can cause the tendon to rupture, which may require surgical repair."
3. Arthritis - People tend to think about big-toe bunions when they think about arthritis in the foot, as arthritis often follows when bunions develop. But Reid, who practices in Naperville, says arthritis can develop in any joint. "Older people often develop arthritis across the top of the foot or in the instep, and it's quite painful," she says. "This is another instance where proper orthotics early on can make a big difference."
One last caveat: If you have diabetes, put your podiatrist on speed-dial because you'll be seeing a lot of each other. "Diabetes is a multi-organ disease that requires constant vigilance because decreased blood flow and neuropathy magnifies everything that happens in the feet," says Contento. "I want to see all my diabetic patients twice a year if they are not having problems and every 2 to 3 months if they are. Diabetics literally should not even be cutting their own toenails due to the risk of infection."
Fortunately, Medicare should cover nail trims every 60 days for people with diabetes. "That's a good interval," Contento says. "It lets me check the feet's skin, neurological status and circulation on a regular basis."
According to Reid, at a certain point, even people 55+ without diabetes should plan on leaving the regular foot care to a pro: "Once reaching or seeing your toes becomes a problem, plan on coming in every few months. An office visit charge of $40-$60 is well worth the peace of mind."
Copyright © 2011, Chicago Tribune
Many people are surprised to learn that the normal aging process affects feet as much as any other body part. Feet become wider and flatter, the protective fat pads on the soles thin out and circulation throughout the feet can decrease, all of which can lead to foot pain and damage. But you don't have to suffer alone. You — and your feet — need an ally. That's where a podiatrist comes in.
Doctors of podiatric medicine focus their practices entirely on the foot, ankle and lower leg. Their medical education and training includes four years of undergraduate education, four years of graduate education at an accredited podiatric medical college and two or three years of hospital residency training. Each state requires podiatrists to be licensed to practice there.
"We're primary physicians and specialists for the foot and ankle," says Dr. Marlene Reid, president of the Illinois Podiatric Medical Association. "That's all we do, which means it's best to go to a podiatrist for any foot or ankle condition, large or small."
Unlike many familiar screening guidelines, like getting your first mammogram at age 40 or your first colonoscopy at age 50, there is no definite rule about when to start seeing a podiatrist. "I always suggest coming in for an initial look once you're past your 30s," says Dr. Kirk Contento of Contento Foot & Ankle Center in Palos Heights and Chicago. "We're all about preventing little problems from developing into something major later."
Here are three common foot conditions that become all the more common as we age, and here's what to do about them.
1. Toenail fungus - Podiatrists suggest seeing a podiatrist whenever a nail thickens or becomes discolored. "The doctor can thin the nail, then medicate topically or orally and get the patient started on a good home treatment regimen," Contento says. "Fungal infections often thicken the nail, which can lead to a secondary problem of an ingrown nail." Lasers are also an emerging new treatment for this common problem.
2.Arch strain and heel pain - One word here: Orthotics. Either custom or over-the-counter are fine, as long as you receive adequate arch support. "The tendon that supports the foot's arches weakens over time due to decreased blood flow, which means your arch drops," says Reid. "It usually starts as a vague feeling of weakness or muscle strain and is often misdiagnosed as plantar fasciitis. People tend to ignore it but it can cause the tendon to rupture, which may require surgical repair."
3. Arthritis - People tend to think about big-toe bunions when they think about arthritis in the foot, as arthritis often follows when bunions develop. But Reid, who practices in Naperville, says arthritis can develop in any joint. "Older people often develop arthritis across the top of the foot or in the instep, and it's quite painful," she says. "This is another instance where proper orthotics early on can make a big difference."
One last caveat: If you have diabetes, put your podiatrist on speed-dial because you'll be seeing a lot of each other. "Diabetes is a multi-organ disease that requires constant vigilance because decreased blood flow and neuropathy magnifies everything that happens in the feet," says Contento. "I want to see all my diabetic patients twice a year if they are not having problems and every 2 to 3 months if they are. Diabetics literally should not even be cutting their own toenails due to the risk of infection."
Fortunately, Medicare should cover nail trims every 60 days for people with diabetes. "That's a good interval," Contento says. "It lets me check the feet's skin, neurological status and circulation on a regular basis."
According to Reid, at a certain point, even people 55+ without diabetes should plan on leaving the regular foot care to a pro: "Once reaching or seeing your toes becomes a problem, plan on coming in every few months. An office visit charge of $40-$60 is well worth the peace of mind."
Copyright © 2011, Chicago Tribune
Friday, April 1, 2011
Sore, Callous, and Cracked Feet
In the course of a day, your feet take plenty of pounding. An average day of walking puts a force equal to several hundred tons of pressure on your feet, according to the American Podiatric Medical Association. That's a big burden for the 26 small bones and hundred-plus tiny muscles and tendons that do all this work. That's why your feet are more subject to injury than any other part of your body. If your foot concern is sore, calloused, cracked heels, then your feet need a little pampering.
If you don’t moisturize your feet in the winter months you will end up with red, cracked, painful skin. This is a problem for many people because your feet sweat daily and all the extra moisture you have is removed. By not moisturizing your feet on a daily basis especially in the winter months you leave your feet vulnerable to crack which in turn leaves you exposed to infection.
“To treat your already sore, calloused, cracked feet, use a thick moisturizer that contains petrolatum, glycerin, or dimethicone to lock in moisture and decrease transepidermal water loss." says Dr. Benjamin Weaver. We recommend Gormel Cream for non-diabetics and Amerigel for diabetics. Be sure to avoid putting any type of moisturizer between your toes. The toes already hold plenty of moisture between them. Too much moisture is just as bad as not enough. Don’t forget to address the calluses on the bottom of the foot which can also cause the foot to crack. We recommend applying Calcylic Cream after you use the pumi bar in the shower. Apply just a small dab to your calluses on the ball of the foot, toes and heels. This will help to soften the skin and in turn the callous will not be so rough and painful.
If your feet are sore and tired help by elevating them at least 6 inches above your heart. Besides reducing the swelling you are helping to reduce the pain and tiredness of your feet. When you’re in the shower using a pumi bar will also help because you are removing the dried old skin from your feet. Your feet will feel energized again and not be as tired and sore. We sell a pumi bar in our office that dissolves itself as you use it. The primary reason you want a pumi bar over a pumi stone is simple. A pumi stone looses the grit the more you use it. After time you will rub harder trying to get your soft feet but what you end up doing is tearing up good skin. The goal behind using a pumi bar is to not create more calluses. By using a pumi bar in the shower, applying a small dab of Calyclic Cream to your calluses once your feet are thoroughly dried and using Gormel or Amerigel Lotion to your feet afterwards, you will help your feet to relax and decompress.
If you don’t moisturize your feet in the winter months you will end up with red, cracked, painful skin. This is a problem for many people because your feet sweat daily and all the extra moisture you have is removed. By not moisturizing your feet on a daily basis especially in the winter months you leave your feet vulnerable to crack which in turn leaves you exposed to infection.
“To treat your already sore, calloused, cracked feet, use a thick moisturizer that contains petrolatum, glycerin, or dimethicone to lock in moisture and decrease transepidermal water loss." says Dr. Benjamin Weaver. We recommend Gormel Cream for non-diabetics and Amerigel for diabetics. Be sure to avoid putting any type of moisturizer between your toes. The toes already hold plenty of moisture between them. Too much moisture is just as bad as not enough. Don’t forget to address the calluses on the bottom of the foot which can also cause the foot to crack. We recommend applying Calcylic Cream after you use the pumi bar in the shower. Apply just a small dab to your calluses on the ball of the foot, toes and heels. This will help to soften the skin and in turn the callous will not be so rough and painful.
If your feet are sore and tired help by elevating them at least 6 inches above your heart. Besides reducing the swelling you are helping to reduce the pain and tiredness of your feet. When you’re in the shower using a pumi bar will also help because you are removing the dried old skin from your feet. Your feet will feel energized again and not be as tired and sore. We sell a pumi bar in our office that dissolves itself as you use it. The primary reason you want a pumi bar over a pumi stone is simple. A pumi stone looses the grit the more you use it. After time you will rub harder trying to get your soft feet but what you end up doing is tearing up good skin. The goal behind using a pumi bar is to not create more calluses. By using a pumi bar in the shower, applying a small dab of Calyclic Cream to your calluses once your feet are thoroughly dried and using Gormel or Amerigel Lotion to your feet afterwards, you will help your feet to relax and decompress.
Monday, December 20, 2010
Warts require persistent treatment
Warts can be the nemesis of many kids and moms. Everyone asks the same question “how do I get rid of them”?
Just like some people get colds or have allergies, some people get warts while others don’t. All of our immune systems and how we react to the environment are different.
Warts are caused by a subtype of the human papilloma virus, form as a result of a rapid growth of cells on the outer layer of the skin as the body tries to wall off the virus. Once you have the virus, you can’t get rid of it, so you are more likely to get warts again.
The majority of patients who come in for wart treatment are children, some of whom might have more than 30 to 40 warts on a foot. Statistics say up to a third of school-age children will get warts, which can be embarrassing and painful, especially if they are plantar warts found on the bottom of the foot. Within two years, many of the warts will go away on their own, but often people don’t want to wait that long.
Warts won’t threaten your health and normally you can get rid of them if you follow the protocol the doctor has in place.
So how does a parent know when to take their child to a doctor vs. buying a salicylic acid product over the counter and tackling it at home?
If you have just one wart on the hand or even the foot, take your child to a doctor. If your child has multiple of warts or they have spread, you need to see a podiatrist. The longer you wait, the more you will have and the deeper they will become.
Warts, especially plantar warts, are sometimes mistaken as calluses, so seeing a podiatrist for a definite diagnosis is important. The virus is shoved deeper into the bottom of the foot, and because it’s a pressure point on the foot, the body will build up a callus to protect it, which can make it hard to differentiate.
Often a telltale sign of a wart is little black dots that appear within it, which are actually small clotted blood vessels that bring nutrients to the warts, which can bleed when disturbed
There are several treatments for warts, which vary according to the frequency and severity of the warts.
The first line of treatment is usually debridement — or cutting down of the wart — and application of a salicylic acid or a chemical called cantharadin that causes the wart to blister. Patients usually need to return for about six weeks for more treatments and apply salicylic acid daily at home in between visits. Noncompliance at home is the No. 1 reason that this treatment doesn’t work.
Warts may also be “frozen” off with liquid nitrogen, surgically cut out under a local anesthetic in the doctor’s office or treated with laser therapy. Often plantar warts require more aggressive treatment because they are deeper and thicker.
In very rare cases, warts can become cancerous — a condition called verrucous carcinoma — but this wart would be noticeably different in that it would be very large, may bleed and may have a discharge with a foul odor, Clarke said.
Tips to avoid warts:
• Since a moist environment causes the wart-producing virus to be more aggressive, wear flip-flops when walking around wet, public areas, such as swimming pools, locker rooms and in public showers.
• If someone in your household has warts, clean the shower with bleach before other family members use it.
• Family members with warts on their feet should try to keep shoes or slippers on in the house and not walk around barefooted.
• Keep feet dry and avoid irritating the soles of the feet because a cut or scrape can be an entry point for the virus.
• Don’t bite your fingernails or cuticles because this can spread warts from finger to finger.
Just like some people get colds or have allergies, some people get warts while others don’t. All of our immune systems and how we react to the environment are different.
Warts are caused by a subtype of the human papilloma virus, form as a result of a rapid growth of cells on the outer layer of the skin as the body tries to wall off the virus. Once you have the virus, you can’t get rid of it, so you are more likely to get warts again.
The majority of patients who come in for wart treatment are children, some of whom might have more than 30 to 40 warts on a foot. Statistics say up to a third of school-age children will get warts, which can be embarrassing and painful, especially if they are plantar warts found on the bottom of the foot. Within two years, many of the warts will go away on their own, but often people don’t want to wait that long.
Warts won’t threaten your health and normally you can get rid of them if you follow the protocol the doctor has in place.
So how does a parent know when to take their child to a doctor vs. buying a salicylic acid product over the counter and tackling it at home?
If you have just one wart on the hand or even the foot, take your child to a doctor. If your child has multiple of warts or they have spread, you need to see a podiatrist. The longer you wait, the more you will have and the deeper they will become.
Warts, especially plantar warts, are sometimes mistaken as calluses, so seeing a podiatrist for a definite diagnosis is important. The virus is shoved deeper into the bottom of the foot, and because it’s a pressure point on the foot, the body will build up a callus to protect it, which can make it hard to differentiate.
Often a telltale sign of a wart is little black dots that appear within it, which are actually small clotted blood vessels that bring nutrients to the warts, which can bleed when disturbed
There are several treatments for warts, which vary according to the frequency and severity of the warts.
The first line of treatment is usually debridement — or cutting down of the wart — and application of a salicylic acid or a chemical called cantharadin that causes the wart to blister. Patients usually need to return for about six weeks for more treatments and apply salicylic acid daily at home in between visits. Noncompliance at home is the No. 1 reason that this treatment doesn’t work.
Warts may also be “frozen” off with liquid nitrogen, surgically cut out under a local anesthetic in the doctor’s office or treated with laser therapy. Often plantar warts require more aggressive treatment because they are deeper and thicker.
In very rare cases, warts can become cancerous — a condition called verrucous carcinoma — but this wart would be noticeably different in that it would be very large, may bleed and may have a discharge with a foul odor, Clarke said.
Tips to avoid warts:
• Since a moist environment causes the wart-producing virus to be more aggressive, wear flip-flops when walking around wet, public areas, such as swimming pools, locker rooms and in public showers.
• If someone in your household has warts, clean the shower with bleach before other family members use it.
• Family members with warts on their feet should try to keep shoes or slippers on in the house and not walk around barefooted.
• Keep feet dry and avoid irritating the soles of the feet because a cut or scrape can be an entry point for the virus.
• Don’t bite your fingernails or cuticles because this can spread warts from finger to finger.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Medical Attention Or Been Hospitalized Because Of Wearing Trendy Shoes
LONDON, 2010 -- One in 10 women in Britain admit they've received medical attention or been hospitalized because of wearing trendy shoes, a survey indicates.
The survey of 3,000 women in Britain who wear high heels was conducted by Hotter Shoes, a British shoe manufacturer.
Nearly half of women say they have twisted their ankle because of their footwear and two-thirds admit wearing shoes that have caused them injury. The most frequently reported injuries caused by shoes were broken ankles, twisted knees, infected blisters, bunions and torn tendons.
"As a comfort shoe maker we were amazed to discover the pain and discomfort that women were prepared to endure for a pair of killer heels or an ill-fitting impulse sale bargain," Lisa McCarten of Hotter Comfort Concept Shoes says in a statement. "Nothing can ruin a day more than sore and tired feet, every person in our design and technical team works hard to ensure that our shoes are stylish and comfortable."
The survey of 3,000 women in Britain who wear high heels was conducted by Hotter Shoes, a British shoe manufacturer.
Nearly half of women say they have twisted their ankle because of their footwear and two-thirds admit wearing shoes that have caused them injury. The most frequently reported injuries caused by shoes were broken ankles, twisted knees, infected blisters, bunions and torn tendons.
"As a comfort shoe maker we were amazed to discover the pain and discomfort that women were prepared to endure for a pair of killer heels or an ill-fitting impulse sale bargain," Lisa McCarten of Hotter Comfort Concept Shoes says in a statement. "Nothing can ruin a day more than sore and tired feet, every person in our design and technical team works hard to ensure that our shoes are stylish and comfortable."
Monday, August 16, 2010
Runners: Fit Feet Finish Faster
Both long-distance runners and casual joggers can improve their performance by keeping their feet in top condition and taking steps to control foot problems common in runners.
The human foot is a biological masterpiece that amazingly endures the stresses of daily activity. For runners, the feet are more vulnerable to injury than any other part of the body, and these athletes should be on the alert for signs of foot problems that can slow them down if not treated promptly.
The most common complaint from runners is heel pain caused by inflammation of the ligament that holds up the arch, a condition known as plantar fasciitis. In athletes, heel pain can result from faulty mechanics and overpronation in which pressure is unequally applied to the inside of the foot. It also can be caused by wearing running shoes that are worn out or too soft.
At the first sign of heel pain, runners are advised to do stretching exercises, wear sturdier shoes and use arch supports. In some cases, icing and anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, are helpful. Should heel pain continue, custom orthotics, injections and physical therapy might be required? Surgery normally isn’t considered unless heel pain persists for more than a year and conservative treatment has failed to bring relief.
Neuromas and tendonitis are other common foot problems that affect runners. A neuroma is a pinched nerve between the toes that can cause pain, numbness and a burning sensation in the ball of the foot. Overly flexible shoes often are the cause and padding, orthotics or injections usually are effective. Sometimes surgery is the answer if pain between the toes continues for more than six months.
Serious runners can be sidelined with tendonitis if they ignore the warning signs of this overuse-related condition. There are several forms of tendonitis that affect the Achilles and other areas, and all are treated with rest, icing, stretching and anti-inflammatory medications, and sometimes with orthotics and physical therapy. Over-zealous training usually causes tendonitis, especially among beginners who try to do too much too soon.
A common myth among athletes is that it’s not possible to walk or run if a bone in the foot is fractured. Surprised patients often say “It can’t be broken, I can walk on it." That’s dead wrong, especially with stress fractures when pain and swelling might not occur for a few days. If a fracture or sprain is suspected, runners should remember the word RICE as an abbreviation for Rest-Ice-Compression-Elevation. Should pain and swelling continue after following this procedure for three or four days, you should see a foot and ankle specialist for an x-ray and proper diagnosis.
Other common foot ailments runners should watch for are:
Athlete’s Foot: This fungal skin disorder causes dry, cracking skin between the toes, itching, inflammation and blisters. It can be prevented and controlled by washing the feet regularly and carefully drying between the toes; switching running shoes every other day to allow them to dry; wearing socks made with synthetic material instead of cotton; and applying over-the-counter ointments.
Toenail Problems: Ingrown nails can cause inflammation and possible infection and usually are treated by cutting the corner of the nail with sterile clippers. Black toenails happen when a blood blister forms under the nail from trauma, and it’s best to let the nail fall off by itself. Fungal toenails are yellow, brown or black and sometimes are irregularly shaped and thick. They are best treated with oral anti-fungal medications.
Foot Odor: There are more than 250,000 sweat glands in the foot and daily hygiene plus regular changing of shoes and socks are best for controlling sweat and odor. Runners should avoid wearing cotton socks and running without socks. Foot powders, aerosols antiperspirants and vinegar soaks also are helpful.
Blisters, corns and calluses: Never pop blisters unless they are larger than a quarter or are painful or swollen. Use a sterile instrument to lance the corner, leave the top as a biological dressing, wash, apply antibiotic ointment, and cover with a Band-aid. Corns and calluses are caused by repeated friction, and should be treated by aseptically trimming the dead skin and eliminating the underlying cause.
The human foot is a biological masterpiece that amazingly endures the stresses of daily activity. For runners, the feet are more vulnerable to injury than any other part of the body, and these athletes should be on the alert for signs of foot problems that can slow them down if not treated promptly.
The most common complaint from runners is heel pain caused by inflammation of the ligament that holds up the arch, a condition known as plantar fasciitis. In athletes, heel pain can result from faulty mechanics and overpronation in which pressure is unequally applied to the inside of the foot. It also can be caused by wearing running shoes that are worn out or too soft.
At the first sign of heel pain, runners are advised to do stretching exercises, wear sturdier shoes and use arch supports. In some cases, icing and anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, are helpful. Should heel pain continue, custom orthotics, injections and physical therapy might be required? Surgery normally isn’t considered unless heel pain persists for more than a year and conservative treatment has failed to bring relief.
Neuromas and tendonitis are other common foot problems that affect runners. A neuroma is a pinched nerve between the toes that can cause pain, numbness and a burning sensation in the ball of the foot. Overly flexible shoes often are the cause and padding, orthotics or injections usually are effective. Sometimes surgery is the answer if pain between the toes continues for more than six months.
Serious runners can be sidelined with tendonitis if they ignore the warning signs of this overuse-related condition. There are several forms of tendonitis that affect the Achilles and other areas, and all are treated with rest, icing, stretching and anti-inflammatory medications, and sometimes with orthotics and physical therapy. Over-zealous training usually causes tendonitis, especially among beginners who try to do too much too soon.
A common myth among athletes is that it’s not possible to walk or run if a bone in the foot is fractured. Surprised patients often say “It can’t be broken, I can walk on it." That’s dead wrong, especially with stress fractures when pain and swelling might not occur for a few days. If a fracture or sprain is suspected, runners should remember the word RICE as an abbreviation for Rest-Ice-Compression-Elevation. Should pain and swelling continue after following this procedure for three or four days, you should see a foot and ankle specialist for an x-ray and proper diagnosis.
Other common foot ailments runners should watch for are:
Athlete’s Foot: This fungal skin disorder causes dry, cracking skin between the toes, itching, inflammation and blisters. It can be prevented and controlled by washing the feet regularly and carefully drying between the toes; switching running shoes every other day to allow them to dry; wearing socks made with synthetic material instead of cotton; and applying over-the-counter ointments.
Toenail Problems: Ingrown nails can cause inflammation and possible infection and usually are treated by cutting the corner of the nail with sterile clippers. Black toenails happen when a blood blister forms under the nail from trauma, and it’s best to let the nail fall off by itself. Fungal toenails are yellow, brown or black and sometimes are irregularly shaped and thick. They are best treated with oral anti-fungal medications.
Foot Odor: There are more than 250,000 sweat glands in the foot and daily hygiene plus regular changing of shoes and socks are best for controlling sweat and odor. Runners should avoid wearing cotton socks and running without socks. Foot powders, aerosols antiperspirants and vinegar soaks also are helpful.
Blisters, corns and calluses: Never pop blisters unless they are larger than a quarter or are painful or swollen. Use a sterile instrument to lance the corner, leave the top as a biological dressing, wash, apply antibiotic ointment, and cover with a Band-aid. Corns and calluses are caused by repeated friction, and should be treated by aseptically trimming the dead skin and eliminating the underlying cause.
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