Foot Pain And Its Possible Implications

Millions of Americans and others across the world experience foot pain regularly and assume that it is caused by the type of shoes that they wear. And while this is a possibility, it is very probable that the pain is from something else. The truth is that foot pain can be a sign of serious health issues so therefore, it should not be shrugged off or ignored.

Foot pain can be associated with the following major health concerns:

1. Rheumatoid Arthritis is a painful joint condition wherein the immune system attacks your joints by mistake. The joints become swollen and painful and if this condition affects the feet it can even result in immobility. The good news is this problem can be prevented and treated.

2. Gout is a different form of arthritis which occurs when excessive uric acid settles in the body. When gout settles in the feet and toes the resulting pain can be tremendous. But there is medication available for this condition.

3. Peripheral Artery disease is caused by a poor circulatory system and the resulting problems are most prominently experienced in the leg area. Smoking has been shown to be a causative agent of the blockage of blood responsible for this disease.

4. Obesity obviously is a major concern – the fact is that our feet have to carry the weight of our bodies. So the more we weigh the more work we put on our feet (as well as all body systems).

5. Diabetes is sugar or glucose buildup in the bloodstream that can result in various other health issues. One effect is damage to major nerves and blood vessels in the feet. In severe cases the feet can feel numb and infections can easily develop.

Here are some preventive measures to consider; prevention is always simpler than developing a problem and then working to find an effective treatment. This is true for any disease or ailment. Proper foot care can help to prevent many problems from ever developing.

a. Wash the feet daily and don’t forget to wash in between toes.
b. Completely dry your feet –this will help prevent bacteria and foot odor.
c. Massage and moisturize the feet with thick lotion twice a day - preferably in the morning and just before going to bed at night.
d. Use a little foot powder to help in absorbing sweat.
e. Check your feet regularly for blisters, corns, calluses’ or other foot problems and treat them accordingly.
f. Maintain an appropriate weight level to minimize the work load of your feet.
g. Treat your feet to a massage with essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus and peppermint. They work wonders for you and your feet.

Suffering from foot pain is a pain that radiates all throughout the body that can leave you incapacitated. The symptoms are often so commonly attached to being tired or to shoes that don’t fit well, that the problems are ignored until the situation spirals out of control. Pay attention to the signals your body gives you and when in doubt, always seek professional advice.

Related Reading: Foot Care for Healthy Feet