Best Foot Forward

Foot problems, itching, deformities or pain. Though the discomfort may be trying, prevention and cure are simple. Experts say a little foot ...

Foot problems, itching, deformities or pain. Though the discomfort may be trying, prevention and cure are simple. Experts say a little foot care, hygiene and the right choice of footwear will do the trick.

Why are shoes important?
Shoes provide support to your feet. The wrong type can put pressure on the wrong places and cause pain or aggravate other foot-related diseases. Dr Yash Gulati, Senior Consultant of Orthopaedics at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi, says, 8216;8216;Not all feet are alike, and different kind of feet need different types of shoes.8217;8217; According to him, feet can be either supple or rigid, flat or normally arched.

While corns and calluses are caused by wrong footwear, other conditions such as bunions and claw toes are aggravated by a wrong choice.

Bunions
They are characterised by a prominent bump on the inside of the foot around the big toe joint. Warning signs: Inflammation, swelling and soreness on the side of the big toe. The discomfort causes a patient to walk improperly.
Cause: Common in women who wear footwear a size too small. The deformity can develop from an abnormality in foot function, or arthritis, but is more commonly caused by wearing improper footwear.
Rx: Soaking feet in warm water can provide temporary relief. The best way to alleviate the pain is to wear shoes that fit well.

Calluses
They form when dead skin cells harden and thicken over an area of the foot as a defence against excessive pressure and friction. They are normally found on the ball of the foot, the heel and inside of the big toe.
Cause: High-heeled dress shoes, shoes that are too small, obesity, abnormalities in walking motion, flat feet, high arched feet, bony prominences and loss of the fat pad on the bottom of the foot.
Rx: A razor blade or knife are out. This is very dangerous and can worsen the condition or result in unnecessary injuries. Diabetics especially should never try this.

		ON FIRM GROUND

			Look good, feel good 8226; Daily washing of the feet with soap and water followed by thorough drying, especially between the toes. 8226; Wearing airy shoes and socks; avoiding tight hosiery; and using foot powder. 8226; Wearing shoes in public showers or pool areas. Know your foot and shoe 8226; Dr Gulati says knowing your feet8212;rigid or supple, flat or normally arched8212; is key. 8226; Shoes have to be comfortable; the counter should be firm, and the upper part soft with a firm yet flexible sole. 8226; Shoes designed with a high, wide toe box toe area are recommended for people suffering from forefoot disorders.

Claw Toes
A claw toe is contracted at the middle and end joints in the toe, and can lead to severe pressure and pain.
Cause: They result from a muscle imbalance that causes the ligaments and tendons to become unnaturally tight. This results in the joints curling downwards. Arthritis can also be a reason.
Rx: Changing the type of footwear.

Corns
Like calluses, they form when dead skin cells accumulate, forming thick, hardened areas.
Cause: Some of the causes are tight-fitting or high-heeled footwear, and tight-fitting socks.
Rx: Properly fitted footwear with extra room in the toe box toe area. Avoid shoes that are too tight or loose. Use an orthotic artificial support.

Steer away from corn-removing solutions and medicated pads.

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Athlete8217;s Foot
A fungal infection that causes red, dry, flaking skin, sometimes accompanied by pain or itching. It occurs between the toes or on the soles or sides of the feet and can spread to toenails. Pay attention to warning signs like dry and cracking feet.
Cause: Contracted in showers, gyms, dressing rooms, swimming pool lockers, or other warm, damp areas where fungus can thrive.
Rx: Foot hygiene, washing and proper drying. Treatment plans also include prescription anti-fungal medications.