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Almost everyone has felt some type of foot pain in their life, especially if they are physically active. However, foot pain also may be caused by genetics, diet, obesity, and infections. The most common causes of foot pain include bunions, hammertoes, and corns. Gout, flat feet, and plantar warts are other painful foot conditions. In addition, athlete’s foot, toenail fungus, and ingrown toenails are common foot pain complaints. Many of these conditions can be resolved by taking better care of the feet on a daily basis, as well as wearing shoes that fit the feet properly. Gout, however, is an…

Pain in the joint of the big toe, termed hallux rigidus, is a form of osteoarthritis caused by the wearing away of cartilage between the base of the big toe and the first metatarsal bone of the foot. This condition often affects runners, as the big toe takes the brunt of the continual pounding with each step. Hallux rigidus often develops in runners between the ages of 30 and 60. Some possible causes include having flat feet or overpronation, which is when the foot rolls inward 15 percent or more with each step. Overtraining, a stubbed toe, gout, a toe…

A sprained ankle is a painful injury that unless fully healed is likely to be repeated. For that reason, it is wise to take measures that speed up the healing process and prevent a recurrence. An ankle sprain is caused when a ligament in the joint is overstretched as the foot rolls inward. If you are unable to put weight on the ankle, it is highly suggested that you seek immediate medical attention. Most experts suggest that the rest, ice, compression, and elevation method of first aid will begin the process of healing a sprained ankle. This will help to…

The feet can look and feel their best when everyday foot care is done. Stretching the feet is an excellent way to begin a foot care routine, and there are various foot exercises that can strengthen the feet. It is beneficial to change the socks and shoes soon after a workout, which may help prevent fungus from developing. The feet can be pampered by soaking them in warm water at the end of the day, followed by applying a good moisturizer. Many people choose to wear flip-flops in the warmer months, and it can help to choose a pair that…

Morton’s neuroma is a benign foot condition that causes pain between the third and fourth toes. Wearing tight shoes, such as high heels, may cause the nerve between these two toes to become compressed or irritated, which may cause pain and discomfort. Some patients explain the sensation of Morton’s neuroma as stepping on a marble or small rock stuck inside their shoe. Some also say it feels like pins and needles. Relief may come from wearing custom-made orthotics, in addition to performing stretches to help strengthen the foot. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the affected nerve…

You don't need an excuse to have beautiful nails. Step outside without worrying about the appearance of your feet.

As a person ages, problems involving the feet become more common. These issues among seniors can interfere with daily activity, increase the risk of falling, and adversely affect other body parts. Among the changes to the feet specifically linked to aging are dry skin, flat feet, hammertoe, toenail changes, and arthritis. Other potential problems include a shortened Achilles tendon, edema, and neuropathy. Dry skin, especially on the feet, can cause cracks in the skin that may result in fissures. Daily moisturizing is often a good preventative measure. Deep cracks in the skin can invite infection and in the worst cases…

Many people use some form of exercise to stay in shape, commonly involving either walking or running. But exercising the feet and ankles themselves is not always on the list of activities. Experts believe that many problems of the feet and ankles can be reduced or eliminated by following a simple foot care exercise program. Toe curls are one exercise that helps to strengthen the toes, feet, and ankles while sitting in a chair. First, start with feet flat on the floor and raise the heels and toes until only the balls of the feet are touching the floor. Hold…

There are bones that are found inside the muscle under the big toe called the sesamoid bones. Their function is to act as a shock absorber for the ball of the foot, and sesamoiditis may happen if they become inflamed. This can result from excess force while running and jumping and can cause pain and discomfort. Additional reasons why this condition can occur from stumbling or slipping or if the toe suddenly bends upward. Further, having an abnormal foot structure or frequently wearing high heels may cause sesamoiditis to develop. Common symptoms associated with this condition include pain while pushing…

It is not surprising that with the extra stress running can put on the feet, runners may be more prone to foot injuries. Runners with flat feet, high arches, and those who overpronate are at higher risk for foot injuries than others. Afflictions that are common among runners include plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, and Morton’s neuroma. Plantar fasciitis is when the plantar fascia, a thick band of fibrous tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, from heel to toes, becomes inflamed or tears. It can cause a stabbing pain in the heel which may worsen when climbing stairs, after…

Do you suffer from heel pain when you get up in the morning? If so, you should seek professional help and have a proper diagnosis performed. Heel pain can be caused by several different foot-related conditions.

When the back of the heel hurts, it may be caused by a condition known as Achilles tendonitis. This ailment occurs when the strong Achilles tendon becomes inflamed, largely the result of overuse or a sudden increase in activity. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, and discomfort above the area of the heel that is used when stretching or standing on your toes. There are two types of Achilles tendonitis, insertional and noninsertional. The former is the result of tiny tears that occur when the lower portion of the tendon breaks down. The latter is when the tears occur in the middle…

Toe cramps can be painful as well as extremely annoying, especially when they wake you out of a sound sleep. Most cases of toe cramps are believed to be the result of overuse. Common culprits include walking too long, working out too much, and wearing shoes that force your feet to flex too much. Other causes of toe cramps include dehydration, along with consuming too much salt. Toe cramps also may be the result of deficiencies in such minerals as potassium, magnesium, and calcium. In addition, increased age, high anxiety, and other underlying medical conditions have been known to cause…

As part of everyday foot care, moisturizing the feet is important. Start with washing and drying your feet well each day. To prevent dryness, itching, and cracking, incorporate a foot moisturizer into your routine. Wear and tear and the weather can take a toll on the feet and dryness and cracking on the heels can be unsightly. Since cells reproduce more slowly as one ages, the problem is worse in the elderly. Moisturizing the feet can be soothing and also good for the feet. You can buff away dry, dead skin with a pumice stone a few times a week…

Blisters are one of the most common problems that runners encounter. While most blisters are not serious, these little pockets of fluid that form on the feet and toes can be annoying and quite painful. Knowing how to prevent a blister, which is nature’s way of protecting your skin from friction, is valuable information for runners. One way to prevent blisters is by wearing socks that wick moisture away from the foot and do not have seams that can cause rubbing. Along with proper socks, choosing the correct footwear is a second important prevention method. Running shoes should not be…

Custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, should be periodically replaced. Orthotics must fit properly to give you the best results. Protect your feet and ankles!

Having foot pain can wreak havoc in completing daily activities. Any type of foot pain is difficult to deal with, and many people often seek relief options. There are many reasons to have foot pain, including having endured an injury, changes to foot structure as a result of age, or from a recurring foot condition. Obesity may lead to having foot pain, which may come from the extra weight the feet must endure. A bunion or hammertoe may cause changes to the foot shape or structure, and is often uncomfortable. Research has shown that many foot conditions may possibly be…

Swelling of the feet is undoubtedly pesky and can make the feet feel puffy, uncomfortable, and inflated. Your feet may swell up for different reasons. For example, foot swelling can be attributed to pregnancy, poor circulation, dietary choices, and many other reasons. If an individual notices that their feet are swollen, they might consider slightly elevating the feet. A person might lie down on their back and elevate their feet and lower legs to a height that is above their heart. This is sometimes particularly easy to perform with a hospital bed because it enables the foot of the bed…

The feet carry and support the weight of one’s entire body. Each foot has 28 bones as well as numerous joints, ligaments, and tendons, which all work together to provide support, mobility, and balance. The feet are very complex structures, and each foot has three arches. The medial longitudinal arch is supported by the plantar fascia, and the muscles of the foot guide this arch while walking or standing on tiptoes. The arch that is located on the outside of the foot is called the lateral longitudinal arch and is dependent on the cuboid bone. This bone is often out…

Ankle pain is a common occurrence, which shouldn’t be surprising because the ankle is involved in every step you take. Ankle injuries are usually caused by tripping on a step or curb or twisting the ankle during a sports activity. This can result in a ligament sprain. With an ankle sprain, the foot rolls inward and the ankle outward, thereby stretching a ligament beyond its normal range. Symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, and warm when touched. Some stiffness may follow. Ankle sprains often interfere with bearing weight on the affected foot. If you are in extreme pain from an ankle…