Your feet work hard every day, but they aren't indestructible. Jamming them into tight shoes, exposing them to viruses and fungi, or putting extra stress on your feet through sports or daily activities can lead to various painful conditions. Dr. Staci Bogin at Elite Foot & Ankle Clinic in Thornton, CO, discusses six common foot problems and explains the treatment options available to get you back on your feet.

Ingrown Toenails

Athletes and active individuals may be particularly prone to ingrown toenails, a condition where the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. This condition can cause pain, swelling, and sometimes infection, especially if left untreated. Tight shoes, improper nail trimming, and repeated trauma are common contributors. Treatment options include proper nail care, wearing well-fitting shoes, and consulting your podiatrist for severe cases that may require minor surgical intervention. Left untreated, ingrown toenails can impact mobility, making it difficult to engage in physical activities comfortably.

Plantar Warts

Plantar warts develop on the soles of your feet and can cause significant discomfort when you walk. Over-the-counter wart removal products may help but often fall short with plantar warts. Podiatrists can remove these warts by freezing them, using laser therapy or acids, applying prescription-strength topical medications, or injecting medications to boost your immune system in fighting the virus.

Bunions

Bunions form as prominent bony bumps at the base of your big toe. They’re commonly associated with wearing high heels or tight shoes but can also result from foot instability or prolonged time on your feet. Treatments include night splints, exercises, and prescription orthotics to help realign the bones and prevent worsening. Surgery to realign bones and remove inflamed tissue may be recommended in severe cases.

Hammertoes

Hammertoes, where one or more toes bend at a right angle, typically affect the second through fifth toes. They may develop due to tight shoes, muscle imbalance, arthritis, or injury. Orthotics and toe exercises can help alleviate symptoms, but surgery might be necessary if the toe cannot be moved back to its natural position.

Athlete’s Foot

The highly contagious fungus that causes athlete’s foot can spread through public showers, pool areas, and shared towels or shoes. Over-the-counter antifungal treatments can be effective, but if infections persist or recur frequently, a visit to your podiatrist is recommended for stronger medications.

Plantar Fasciitis

Heel pain is the hallmark symptom of plantar fasciitis, a common issue for runners and individuals who spend long hours standing. This condition results from inflammation of the plantar fascia, a ligament that runs from your heel to your toes. Treatment options include orthotics, night splints, and targeted exercises to relieve the pain. While surgery is rarely necessary, it may be an option for severe cases that do not respond to conservative treatments.

Don’t Ignore Foot Pain

Foot issues can impact your quality of life and daily mobility. To discuss any foot problems you may be experiencing, schedule an appointment with Dr. Staci Bogin at Elite Foot & Ankle Clinic in Thornton, CO. Call (720) 328-2022 to schedule your visit and learn how to keep your feet in top shape.