Tag Archives: feet

3 Common Causes of Foot Pain

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Foot pain is common; any time you walk, run, or perform other activities that place stress on your feet, it increases their risk of becoming injured. This risk can also increase as a result of a variety of medical conditions.

One of the most helpful steps for alleviating foot pain is to determine what could potentially be causing it. A few common causes of foot pain include:

Poorly-fitting shoes: Foot pain and discomfort often occurs as a result of wearing shoes that do not properly fit. Both the size and shape of the shoe are important for maximizing your comfort and preventing pain.

Foot deformities: Many people experience some form of foot deformity, meaning that one or both of their feet have not properly developed physically in some way. A few common examples of foot deformities include hammer toes (which bend downward instead of pointing forward), clubfoot (a childhood deformity in which the foot is turned inward), and flat foot (meaning that the foot lacks an arch in a standing position).

Injury: The feet are involved significantly in many physical activities, such as walking, jogging, or sports. During these types of activities, you’re more likely to experience injuries such as sprained or twisted ankles, Achilles tendinitis, or nerve damage. Your risk of experiencing these injuries can be even higher due to factors such as improperly-fitting shoes and untreated foot deformities.

If you experience foot pain or have a medical condition that increases your risk of injury, it’s important that you talk to a podiatrist to get the specialized treatment you need. You can schedule an appointment with a podiatrist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center by calling (718) 206-6712.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Oh My Aching Feet!

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Corns and calluses are caused by pressure or friction on skin, which leads to the formation of thickened skin on the top or side of a toe. Complications from corns and calluses are rarely serious; however, if you are a diabetic they can lead to more serious issues.

Diabetics often have impaired sensitivity and may not be aware of the friction or presence of a corn or callous. Since they are unaware, the corn or callous can progress into ulcers or secondary infections without the person knowing.

In addition, diabetics don’t, usually, heal as quickly as non-diabetics and their infections can become life-threatening.

Indications that you may have a corn or callous:

  • Skin is thick and hardened.
  • Skin may be flaky and dry.
  • Hardened, thick skin areas are found feet or other areas that may be rubbed or pressed.
  • The affected areas can be painful and may bleed.

According to the National Institutes of Health, preventing friction by wearing proper fitting shoes and avoiding walking barefoot are often the only preventative measures you can take.

Regular examination of you feet can help you to identify any problems and, if you receive a foot injury, you should seek immediate medical attention.

If you have diabetes and are experiencing corns/calluses that are painful, red, warm, or there is drainage in the area, you should call your healthcare provider immediately to determine the cause.

To make an appointment with a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine at Jamaica Hospital Medical Centers Ambulatory Care Center, please call 718-206-7005 to schedule an appointment.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.