8 Health Problems Your Feet Are Trying to Warn You About
Though often overlooked (literally), our feet can provide invaluable insight into our overall health. If you just look down, you might be able to catch several conditions and diseases that manifest symptoms in the feet.
We at Podiatry Care, PC, and the Heel Pain Center are not only here to remind you but also to educate you on what to look for. Let’s unpack the specific conditions your feet might be warning you of.
Conditions
Diabetes: This chronic condition can damage nerves in the feet, leading to numbness, tingling, or pain. Additionally, poor circulation due to diabetes can cause slow-healing sores and infections.
Arthritis: Joint inflammation, common in arthritis, often affects the feet, which causes pain, stiffness, and swelling.
Circulatory problems: Issues with blood circulation can result in cold feet and discoloration. These symptoms might indicate peripheral artery disease (PAD) or other circulatory problems.
Thyroid disorders: Both overactive and underactive thyroid conditions can manifest symptoms in the feet, including swelling, dryness, or excessive sweating.
Skin conditions: Feet are prone to various skin conditions like athlete's foot, psoriasis, and eczema. These conditions can cause itching, redness, and discomfort.
Nutritional deficiencies: Vitamin and mineral deficiencies, such as iron or vitamin B12, can lead to foot problems like tingling or fatigue.
Kidney disease: When kidneys aren't functioning properly, they can't effectively remove waste products from the blood. This buildup can cause fluid retention, leading to swelling in the feet and ankles.
Neurological disorders: Conditions affecting the nervous system, like multiple sclerosis or Parkinson's disease, can cause a variety of foot issues, including weakness, balance problems, and changes in gait.
When to See a Podiatrist
Many foot problems can be treated at home, but visit a podiatrist if you are experiencing persistent pain, open sores, sudden changes in foot appearance, numbness, or difficulty walking.
At Podiatry Care, PC, and the Heel Pain Center, we address a myriad of foot and ankle problems. Dr. Charlotte George, Dr. Matthew Tschudy, Dr. Rebecca Wiesner, Dr. Kristen Winters, Dr. Laura Vander Poel, and the rest of our team are eager to assist our Hartford County patients. To book an appointment at our Enfield location, call (860) 741-3041. For an appointment at our South Windsor location, call (860) 644-6525.