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TEN COMMON FOOT PROBLEMS

Problem  Cause Remedy Prevention
Aching archesWalking, running, or stand- ing more than usualChange from flat to low-heeled shoe (1 to 1 1/4 inch)If weak arches are a chronic problem, use arch supports
Athlete’s foot The contagious fungus that flourishes in dark, humid environmentWash feet daily with soap and warm water; dry carefully, especially between toes; use antifungal powder on feet and antifungal creams around toenailsChange shoes and socks often to decrease moisture. Don’t go barefoot in locker rooms, public showers, and pool areas
Blisters Friction from ill-fitting shoes or socks; moistureTry not to break the blister. Instead, place moleskin or bandage over it.Wear shoes that fit properly, and change socks that become damp. Socks should be snug (not tight) with no extra fabric to create folds
Bunions Enlarged, misaligned big-toe joints are caused by heredity and some- times aggravated by narrow-toed shoesCover with moleskin or foam pad. Physical therapies, such as whirlpool massage, and use of innersoles, arch supports, or orthotic inserts may reduce pain; however, surgery may be necessary. For inflamed bunion, apply ice for 15 minutes, then soak in warm water for 15 minutes; repeat three times a day. (Diabetics should check with
a physician first)
You may be able to delay bunions by avoiding badly fitting shoes. Exercises to strengthen the middle of the foot-such as pointing toes and rising onto balls of feet-can also help
Calluses Repeated frictionSoak feet in warm water for 5 or 10 minutes, and rub calluses with a pumice stone. Moleskin or cushioned innersoles can reduce pressure from shoesKeep feet well lubricated with moisturizing lotion
Corns FrictionFor hard corn, use a nonmedicated corn pad with opening slightly larger than corn’s diameter. To soften corn, soak in warm water and rub top layer with pumice stone; then apply lotion or petroleum jelly. Repeat once a week. For soft corn between toes, keep toes separated with lamb’s wool
or sponge
Eliminate the source of friction; keep feet well lubricated
Hammertoe A bent, clawlike toe, usually the second, is caused by muscle imbalance, bunions, tight shoes or socks, or hereditySurgery to straighten may be necessary. For inflamed hammertoe, use ice-and- warm-water treatment described for bunionsWear properly fitting shoes and socks
Ingrown toenail Toenail cut too short; tight-fitting shoes; excessive curvature of the toenail (inherited)If infected, see a doctor. If not, soak the foot in warm water. Then, using a nail file, insert small wad of cotton to lift nail away from the sore spot. Repeat twice a dayCut toenails straight across, no shorter than the end of the toe. Wear shoes with a sufficiently wide toe box
Plantar warts Flat, spongy warts on the soles of the feet are caused by a virusWarts sometimes disappear spontaneously. Otherwise, a podiatrist or other physician can remove themAvoid going barefoot, especially on dirty surfaces or in communal bathing areas
Thickened, yellowish nails A fungal infection that can spread from athlete’s foot or occur after a trauma that damages nail bedRequires prescription medication. If desired, file nails for comfort, but clean hands and feet afterward to control the spread of the fungusKeep feet clean and dry; treat athlete’s foot promptly

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