3 Nasty Foot-Related Problems and What You Can Do To Avoid Them

Your feet are made up of 33 joints, 26 bones and 250,000 sweat glands, and you should never take them for granted. Frustrating problems like heel pain and blisters can make everyday activities like walking and running a pain in the foot. Here are some of the most common foot-related conditions and what you can do to prevent them. 

1. Blisters

Blisters are lesions caused by pressure and friction. Depending on their size, they can be painful, really painful. Thankfully, there are some steps you can take to prevent blisters from developing in the first place. Firstly, make sure you're wearing shoes that fit your feet properly and avoid stiff footwear that can cause your feet to sweat and retain an excessive amount of moisture. Secondly, check your feet on a regular basis for any signs of tenderness or rubbing. Here's a quick tip: You can wear special socks that prevent your feet from becoming too sweaty. Blisters usually heal on their own, but if you have diabetes, you should contact a podiatrist for some advice.

2. Athlete's Foot

Athlete's Foot is essentially a fungal skin infection that, if not treated, can lead to cracked, peeling and itchy skin. The condition usually occurs on the heels and between the toes and can sometimes result in painful fissures developing across the toes and on the sole. Try not to walk barefoot in communal areas like gym changing rooms or swimming pools — popular breeding grounds for nasty fungal species. A good pair of flip flops is a better idea and can reduce your chances of getting Athlete's Foot dramatically. An anti-fungal cream or spray can usually get rid of the condition, but in severe cases, you'll need to see your podiatrist.

3. Ingrowing Toenails

Having an ingrowing toenail is nothing to be scared of, but if it gets infected, it can be painful. An ingrowing toenail is often the result of a genetic condition, but the way you stand and walk can make the problem worse. Tight shoes and socks can also push flesh towards the nail, which may then penetrate the skin. You can prevent this condition by taking good care of your toenails and wearing the right footwear. Cut your toenails properly and avoid shoes that are too tight. If you are experiencing pain from an ingrowing toenail, make an appointment to see your podiatrist. They will be able to remove the painful ingrowing toenail using a simple procedure. 

For more information about these and other conditions, contact a local foot clinic like Dapto Podiatry Clinic.