We all experience pain in and around our feet at some point in our lives. Whether it’s pain from an injury, illness, or condition, taking good care of the feet is important. However, many people tend to neglect their foot problems until the pain makes it difficult to walk or run or affects their daily activities. Foot problems can result in limited movement and mobility and lead to more serious health problems in the long term. This is why our podiatrists in Mandurah recommend taking proper care of your feet and seeking medical advice at the earliest sign of a problem.
Did you know that according to a recent survey conducted by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, about 75% of people experience foot problems at some point in their lives? And if these problems are left unnoticed, they can worsen over time, making it difficult to walk around or play sports. In this blog, we will discuss some of the most common foot problems and the most effective ways to treat them.
Most Common Foot Problems and How to Treat Them
A wide range of contributing factors, such as uncomfortable shoes, overuse injuries, and chronic conditions like arthritis, can lead to various foot problems. Here are some of the most common foot problems and the best ways to treat them:
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Flat Foot
It’s a condition that’s caused when there’s no arch in the middle of the foot. Flat feet can be a symptom of underlying health conditions, such as nerve damage, diabetes, or arthritis, which require prompt attention and treatment. If you have flat feet, you can opt for custom orthotics. They will provide extra support and cushioning for your feet.
If you are a resident of Mandurah or nearby areas and are looking for a podiatry clinic that provides the best foot orthotics in Mandurah, you can visit Peel Podiatry Clinic. Our team will thoroughly assess the condition and recommend the right custom orthotics.
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Plantar Warts
Plantar warts are small, rough growths on the bottom of the foot that are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can be extremely painful and hamper your day-to-day activities. Some of the most common symptoms of a plantar wart include thickened skin on the soles of the feet, pain or tenderness when standing or walking, and so on.
If you have a painful plantar wart and you want to get rid of it, you can consult a podiatrist. Podiatrists in Mandurahor elsewhere use swift wart therapy to remove stubborn warts permanently.
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Achilles Tendonitis
The Achilles tendon is a band of tissue that connects the muscles in the calf to your heel. If it becomes inflamed and irritated, it is called Achilles tendinitis, which may cause pain in the lower leg or above the heel. It shouldn’t be overlooked because if it becomes chronic, you may need surgery.
Some of the best treatment options for Achilles tendinitis include stretching and strengthening exercises, wearing shoes with proper arch support and cushioning, physical therapy, and more.
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Shin Splints
Shin splints typically develop due to too much stress on the shin bone and the connective tissues attaching the muscles to your shin bone. People who participate in strenuous physical activities like running and participating in sports are more likely to develop shin splints. Although shin splints are a very common overuse injury, they can develop into a complete fracture or a stress fracture.
Orthotics can be highly effective in treating shin splints. They can improve the alignment of the foot, helping you walk and move more freely. You can also try over-the-counter pain medications and physical therapy to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
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Heel Pain
Heel pain is one of the most common foot problems. It usually occurs when you place weight on your heel and can get worse over time if left untreated. Although there are many factors that lead to heel pain, some of its most common causes include Achilles tendinitis, heel spurs, and plantar fasciitis. In most cases, heel pain can be treated with over-the-counter pain relievers. But if it does not get better within three weeks, you should visit a podiatrist.
Wrapping Up
Apart from these, there are many other common foot problems that you shouldn’t ignore and must be treated as soon as possible. Some of these include knee pain, hammertoe, plantar warts, ingrown toenails, and Morton’s neuroma, among many others. Should you be suffering from any of these conditions and you are looking for reputable podiatrists in Mandurah, get in touch with Peel Podiatry Clinic. Our team comprises highly qualified and skilled podiatrists who can treat a number of problems that affect your feet or lower legs. To know more about the subject, you can book a consultation with the team.