Most of us will experience foot issues at some point in our lives. Dr. Marc Goldberg, Dr. Michael Frank, Dr. Adam Lowy and Dr. Christopher Farnworth, your podiatrists at Family Foot and Ankle Associates of Maryland with offices in Silver Spring, Olney, Clinton and Kensington, share information about five of the most common issues.
Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when the side of the nail begins to grow into your skin. If the problem isn't corrected promptly, the nail will penetrate deeper into your skin, making it difficult to remove on your own. Ingrown toenails are very painful and can become infected. Reduce your risk of ingrown toenails by cutting your toenails straight across instead of rounding the corners.
Corns and Calluses
Corns and calluses form when your shoes rub against your feet. Your body attempts to protect your feet by building up a protective layer of skin. High heels and tight shoes are often to blame for callus or corn formation. Make sure you choose shoes that offer plenty of space in the toe box and don't constrict your foot.
Fungal Infections
Athlete's foot and toenail fungus are particularly common foot infections. The infection is very contagious and is often found in public shower and locker rooms. Wearing shower shoes and avoiding sharing towels, socks and shoes with other people can help you prevent these infections.
Bunions
Bunions occur due to a misalignment of the bones at the base of your foot that forms a bump. Wearing tight shoes or high heels frequently can increase the likelihood that you'll develop the painful condition. Choosing more comfortable shoes and padding your foot and toes can help decrease bunion pain.
Plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis causes pain in your heel. The condition occurs when the plantar fascia, the band of tough tissues that connects your heels to your toes, becomes inflamed. If you have flat feet, are overweight, are between 40 and 60 or spend hours on your feet every day, you're more likely to develop the condition.
How can a Silver Spring, Olney, Clinton, Kensington and Lockwood podiatrist help me?
If your symptoms don't improve after trying home treatment, it's a good idea to visit a foot doctor. He can offer a variety of treatments that will decrease your pain or discomfort, including medications, orthotics, cortisone injections, night splints and surgery for more severe issues.
Put an end to your foot pain with a visit to your podiatrist. Call Dr. Goldberg, Dr. Frank, Dr. Lowy and Dr. Farnworth at their offices in Silver Spring (301) 439-0300, Olney (301) 924-5044, Clinton (301) 868-7670, Kensington (301) 942-8110.