Foot deformities are contributed to arthritis, congenital, or other problems, but one of the most common reasons is the wearing of compressive footwear. For many women, high heels are the causes of the problem. In this piece, we will examine a few common foot deformities and solutions to help ease discomfort associated with and/or prevent them from occurring.
Please take note, that this information should not be substituted for proper medical advice or treatment of any foot conditions. If you are suffering from any foot problems or pain, please seek professional medical attention.
* Hammer toe: when the longest toe (usually the second toe, next to the big toe) bends down toward the floor at the middle toe joint.
* Mallet toe: often affects the second toe, but it may affect the other toes as well. The toe bends down at the joint closest to the tip
* Claw toes: often affects all toes (except the big toe) at the same time, causing them to bend downward at the middle joints and at the joints nearest the tip, so that the toes curl down toward the floor.
* Bunions: an enlargement of bone or tissue around the joint at the base of the big toe.
These conditions can be painful and uncomfortable, especially while a person walks, as the toe presses and rubs against the shoe. Home treatments include, wearing properly fitting footwear (for bunions wear wide shoes), cushions, and shoe inserts. Using tape or splints to help straighten the toe. Doing toe stretches to help the joints stay flexible. Use over the counter pain relievers as needed to relieve the discomfort. If having severe pain ask your doctor for prescription pain relievers.
Hammer toe and mallet toe require surgery only when non-surgical treatment fails. Claw toes are more likely to require surgery, but non-surgical treatment can be effective. Surgery, does not guarantee that toes will return to their normal positions, and toe joint problems may come back after the surgery.
Calluses and corns are areas of thick, hardened, dead skin that form. Calluses and corns become a problem when they grow large enough to cause pain.
* Calluses: usually are found on the underside of the foot, either at the bottom of the forefront or heel. Most times they are caused by uneven distribution of weight.
* Corns: are usually found on or between toes. They have an inner core that can be soft or hard.
Never attempt to cut calluses and corns from your feet. After a bath or shower, while the skin is still soft, use a pumice or an emery board to gently remove the build up of tissue.
When wearing shoes use cushions or medicated pads for corns and for calluses try cushion and insoles.
Lastly, there are the blisters. Though they are not a deformity, they are a problem for many women and can cause much discomfort and pain.
* Blisters: are a shell on the skin surface, that contains clear liquid. These usually occurs when shoes rub repeatedly against the skin of the foot.
When blisters occur do not break the blister. Wash the area with mild soap and water, apply anti-bacterial cream, cover with gauze, and wear different shoes.
The best way to prevent all these conditions:
1. Avoid ill-fitting shoes. Have your feet measured and purchase shoes your correct size.
2. Wear high heels in moderation and if wearing high heels daily, rotate heel heights.
3. Pamper your feet.
4. Notice any problems seek medical attention.
