As people age, they notice increased aches and pains. Many of these same individuals will experience problems with their feet. This is understandable really when you consider that we spend a lot of time on our feet. And it is not just the elderly that suffer from foot problems. In fact, problems with the feet can occur at any age.
While some issues with the feet cause pain, others are just uncomfortable, and yet others are actually embarrassing. Below are a few of the most common foot problems along with the issues that cause them.
Bromodosis
Bromodosis is the medical term for smelly feet, which is usually caused by a buildup of bacteria and sweat. Some people are more prone to bromodosis than others, such as those who are overweight, those who exercise in hot weather, and those who are pregnant. Bromodosis often occurs as a result of hormonal changes that occur during puberty and menopause. There are many things that you can do if you suffer from bromodosis including washing your feet every day and changing your socks during the day. It is also a good idea to avoid wearing the same pair of shoes each day. As well as this, the good folk at ShoeFresh say that a good shoe deodorant such as the type they produce can prevent odor for up to three months at a time.
Athlete’s Foot
An athlete’s foot is another foot problem that is caused by a buildup of sweat and bacteria. This fungal infection commonly occurs in those who wear damp socks in enclosed footwear. An athlete’s foot is highly contagious and can be transferred from one person to another. For this reason, it is always a good idea to avoid walking barefoot in public places such as gyms, locker rooms, swimming pools, and saunas. It is also important to wear clean socks and change them during the day if you are prone to excessive sweating. Treatments for athlete’s foot include antifungal medication and steroid creams.
Hammertoes
A hammertoe is a deformity of the toe that occurs when there is an imbalance in the ligaments, muscles, or tendons in the foot. It usually affects the second, third or fourth toes and results in a bend in the middle joint. Often, the type of shoe that a person wears will cause the hammertoe to develop, but it can also be caused by trauma or some diseases. Hammertoe can be relieved by wearing roomier shoes or using a shoe pad. However, if the toe becomes fixed in this position, surgery may be necessary to correct the issue, particularly if the condition is causing a lot of pain.
Ingrown Toenails
An ingrown toenail is one where the sides of the nail begin to press into the flesh at the side of the toe. This is often caused by wearing shoes that are too tight, but it can also occur when toenails are cut too short or when the toes have been injured. The skin around the toe can be quite tender or painful and sometimes an infection will develop. You can avoid ingrown toenails by cutting the nails straight across instead of in a rounded fashion. Also, avoid wearing shoes that are narrow at the top.
Blisters
Blisters are raised bubbles of skin that are usually filled with fluid. They usually occur from ill-fitting shoes or when the feet become sweaty. In most cases, blisters will heal on their own without any treatment.
Conclusion
Problems with the feet often occur in older people, but they can and do affect people of all ages. In many cases, these foot problems can be treated easily with self-care, although sometimes medication or topical ointments will be required.
