Five Common Foot Problems And How We Can Help

Discover the issues that most often affect your foot health and what to do about it.

Did you know that our feet walk us around the Earth five times during an average lifespan (thanks to The College of Podiatry for this foot problemsfancy fact!)? Just this statistic alone shows us just how much our feet are hard at work to get us moving and shaking. And if you are dealing with foot problems it may be difficult to get moving like you normally would. Here are the most common foot issues and the many ways our Alexandria, VA, podiatrist Dr. Angelo Pace recommends treating them.

Ingrown Toenail

An ingrown toenail is a painful nail condition in which the nail grows into the skin at the sides. This is often caused by cutting nails too short or by trimming them at a curve rather than straight across. You can ease your symptoms by soaking the infected toe in saltwater. If you have diabetes or a weakened immune system and develop an ingrown toenail, you’ll want to visit our Alexandria, VA, foot doctor right away for care.

Bunions

This bony protrusion that often develops at the base of the big toe can be painful and get worse if the symptoms aren’t managed. By wearing shoes that fit properly and offer your toes room to move around you can prevent the bunion from progressing further. Most people will be able to easily manage their symptoms with conservative care, but if your bunion is too painful and makes it difficult to move around, then surgery may be necessary to correct the deformity.

Corns and Calluses

These thick dead layers of skin often develop on a toe due to friction from ill-fitted shoes. If the corn is painful then you’ll want to see us to have it removed. Stay away from shoes that are too tight and limit how often you wear heels. You can try to gently and carefully remove the hardened layer of skin with a pumice stone, but if you have diabetes or other issues that cause loss of sensation in the feet, then you’ll want to see an expert for professional care.

Athlete’s foot

This fungal infection often causes redness, flaking, cracking and itchy skin between the toes. This infection can spread to the nails, causing them to become brittle, discolored and thick. You can prevent athlete’s foot by changing your socks and shoes daily and wearing sandals or shoes while using community pools, gyms and locker rooms.

Plantar fasciitis

This is one of the most common causes of heel pain and is often the result of overuse. This condition usually occurs in runners. Resting and avoiding activities that could exacerbate your condition can help heal your condition faster. Sometimes more aggressive treatments like shockwave therapy or corticosteroid injections are needed.

Get back to moving and shaking in no time when you turn to the foot experts at Advanced Pace Foot And Ankle Center in Alexandria, VA. We are here to provide the latest and most effective treatment options to tackle all of your problems.