Most Common Problems Treated by Foot Doctors

Our feet work hard to get us around, but we often forget to take good care of them. Foot health is crucial for everyone, from athletes to the elderly. When foot pain strikes, it can significantly impact our daily activities and overall well-being.

Podiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating foot-related issues, ensuring you can stay on your toes. Let’s explore some of the most common problems treated by foot doctors.

Common Foot Problems in Athletes

Athletes are often on their feet daily, which can lead to a variety of foot-related issues. Understanding these common problems is essential for maintaining peak performance and preventing long-term damage.

Plantar Fasciitis

Athletes frequently encounter foot injuries, with plantar fasciitis being a common culprit. This is a problem with the bottom of your foot. It happens when the plantar fascia, a stretchy band of tissue, gets inflamed.

Symptoms include severe heel pain, especially after rest. Treatment for this includes:

  • stretching exercises
  • orthotic supports
  • anti-inflammatory medications

Stress Fractures

Intense training can lead to stress fractures, causing tiny cracks in the bones of the foot. These typically result from repeated or excessive strain.

Pain worsens with physical exertion and gradually subsides during periods of rest. Treatment includes cold application, rest, compression, and elevation. Make sure to consult with a foot doctor, as stress fractures need proper assessment. Depending on the severity, you might require immobilization and physical therapy.

Achilles Tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis is another common problem for everyday athletes. It happens when the Achilles tendon at the back of the ankle gets sore and stiff. This large tendon can become inflamed due to overuse. People suffering from Achilles tendonitis can usually treat it through rest.

Foot Complications in the Elderly

As people age, taking care of their feet becomes really important. Foot problems can make it hard to get around and enjoy life. Knowing about common foot issues in older people can help us help them stay active and comfortable.

Arthritis

Arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, often affects the joints in the feet. Arthritis will cause pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion. There are a couple of ways to manage arthritis:

  • anti-inflammatory medications
  • physical therapy
  • injections to reduce inflammation.

Diabetic Foot

Elderly individuals with diabetes are at risk for diabetic foot complications. This can include ulcers and infections. Unnoticed injuries worsen over time due to poor circulation and neuropathy.

Fallen Arches

Fallen arches, or flat feet, occur when the arch of the foot collapses, leading to pain and discomfort. This condition is common in older adults due to wear and tear over the years. Treatment includes supportive shoes, orthotic inserts, and exercises to strengthen the foot muscles.

Everyday Foot Problems in Adults

It’s not just athletes and older adults who have foot problems. Lots of regular adults deal with foot issues that can bother them. Here are some common foot problems in adults:

Bunions

A bunion is a painful bump that grows on the side of your big toe. They can cause pain and make it difficult to find comfortable shoes. At-home treatments like ice, padding, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help. However, serious cases might need a podiatrist to perform surgery.

Corns and Calluses

Corns and calluses are tough, thick patches of skin caused by pressure or friction. While generally harmless, they can become painful. Treatments include moisturizing creams, pumice stones, and properly fitting shoes.

Ingrown Toenails

An ingrown toenail happens when the corner of your toenail digs into the skin around it. This can be painful and sometimes lead to an infection. You can treat mild cases at home by soaking the foot in warm water and gently lifting the nail.

Ingrown toenails that do not improve require the attention of a podiatrist. Your foot doctor may need to perform a minor surgical procedure to remove part of the nail.

Unique Foot Ailments in Patients

Other foot ailments can arise due to specific health conditions or lifestyle choices. Understanding these problems is essential for successful treatment and control.

Fungal Infections

Fungal infections thrive in warm, damp places. This includes places like your feet, which can lead to athlete’s foot. These infections can make your skin itchy, burn, and crack. You can often buy creams at the store to help clear up the problem. Persistent infections may require prescription medication from a foot doctor.

Gout

Gout is a type of arthritis that happens when too much uric acid builds up in your joints. It often affects the big toe. This condition causes sudden, severe pain and swelling. Treatment includes medications to reduce uric acid levels and manage pain.

Neuromas

A neuroma is a painful foot problem in which the nerve in your foot gets thicker. Symptoms include burning pain, tingling, or numbness. Treatment options include custom orthotics and corticosteroid injections. In severe cases, surgical removal of the affected nerve may be necessary.

Expert Foot Doctor in Columbia, MD

At Orthopaedic Associates of Central Maryland, our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Marc N. Lipton, can provide the best possible care. Dr. Lipton knows the importance of patient education and provides individualized recommendations on how to prevent foot and ankle pain and injuries and improve overall foot health.

Dr. Lipton’s extensive training and years of experience have made him most capable of treating all types of foot and ankle issues, from acute to chronic conditions, and he dispenses care with great compassion.

To schedule an appointment, use our online request form or call our office at (410) 644-1880. We look forward to helping you achieve healthy feet!