This is particularly the case in a city such as Tucson, AZ where outdoor activities are so readily available and foot health is an important factor in keeping active. Yet, numerous people deal with common issues that can limit their activities. Identifying these problems and understanding how to address them can keep your feet healthy, and free of pain. In this article, we will discuss common foot problems and Podiatry in Tucson, AZ.
1. Plantar Fasciitis
Symptoms:
A sharp pain in your heel right when you get out of bed in the morning – or after sitting for a long time.
Causes:
Overuse, wrong shoes, flat feet, or high arches.
Treatment:
- Rest and Ice: Giving your foot rest and applying ice can relieve inflammation.
- Stretches: Stretching the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia can reduce pain.
- Orthotics: Certain custom-made orthotic devices can help support the arch as well and take an additional load off of that plantar fascia.
- Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can create a custom exercise program to strengthen the muscles in your foot.
- Medical Treatments: If your condition is severe, corticosteroid injections or shock wave therapy may be advised by a podiatrist.
2. Bunions
Symptoms:
A bony bump on the outside of your foot at the base of your big toe that causes pain and swelling.
Causes:
Genetics and arthritis
Treatment:
- Appropriate Footwear: Wearing shoes with a wide toe box decreases the pressure on the bunion.
- Padding and Taping: Pads or cushioning applied over the bunion can help minimize pain.
- Orthotics: Custom insoles can correct foot alignment and reduce pressure sheer.
- Surgical Options: If you have a bad bunion, your only option may be to refashion the bones and remove (or shave) off the protruding bump.
3. Heel Spurs
Symptoms:
Pain and inflammation at the bottom of the heel.
Reasons:
Over-used of foot muscles and ligaments (which could connected with plantar fasciitis).
Treatment:
- Exercises: Stretching and strengthening the foot muscles may help reduce symptoms.
- Orthotics: Orthotic devices support your heel and reduce strain
- Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can come up with a treatment plan that will target the root causes of heel spurs
- Surgical Intervention: In severe cases, surgery may be needed to remove the heel spur.
4. Ingrown Toenails
Symptoms:
It includes pain, redness, and swelling around the toenail bed (these are symptoms of an infected ingrown nail).
Causes:
Trimming the nail incorrectly, wearing tight shoes, or an injury to the toenail.
Treatment:
- Nail Care: Cut straight across (not too short)
- Soak and lift: Soaking the foot in warm water and then lifting the ingrown nail can help to reduce discomfort.
- Antibiotics: Your doctor might recommend antibiotics if an infection is causing your balloon sinuplasty.
- Surgical Solutions: For stubborn cases of ingrown toenails, the answer may be to undergo a very minor procedure from your podiatrist where they will remove part or all of the nail.
5. Athlete’s Foot
Symptoms:
Itchy, red, and scaly skin which is particularly common between the toes. A common condition where small cracks and tears develop in your skin or feet.
Causes:
Fungal infection due to moist, hot conditions that as sweaty feet or communal showers
Treatment:
- Antifungal Medications: Topical antifungal creams, powders, or sprays – available without a prescription.
- Proper Hygiene: Making sure your feet are clean and dry, and changing socks regularly can help prevent the reoccurrence of the skin infection.
- Suitable Footwear: use airy shoes and absorbent socks to prevent accumulation of moisture.
Though foot problems are a common difficulty, they can be treated especially when identified and tended to early! Thankfully, if you know what causes this pain seek treatment for it from a podiatrist in Tucson, AZ who has experience regarding recognizing the symptoms of foot levelers discomfort so they can diagnose it properly. Whether you have plantar fasciitis, bunions, or any other foot ailment our Tucson podiatric services will get you back on your feet so that you can enjoy the exciting outdoor lifestyle in this part of Arizona.
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