Common Foot Problems and Their Symptoms

Your feet are possibly the most important part of your body and carry out some of the most critical functions: supporting the body, balancing the body's weight and allowing you to walk and be independently mobile. Your foot is made up of 26 bones, 42 muscles, 33 joints, around 50 tendons and ligaments, and 250,000 sweat glands. All of these parts work together efficiently to support your body and carry your weight, and they are at a higher risk of injury compared with other parts of your body. When your feet are not cared for properly, they can cause other issues such as ankle pain, knee problems, and backache. Learn about ten common foot problems and how to avoid or treat them.

1. Athlete's Foot

Athlete's foot is a very common fungal infection, especially in people who wear closed shoes often. The infection can be identified when the skin between the toes or on the sides and soles of the feet becomes dry, red and flaky. Also, the infection can cause feet to become itchy and painful. The fungus thrives in conditions that are warm and damp, and it's often picked up in showers, public pools, and gyms. Avoid the fungal infection in these locations by wearing shoes or shower shoes at all times. Wash and dry your feet thoroughly after exposure to avoid Athlete's foot infections. Keep feet dry with open shoes or foot powder. Consult your doctor about treatment if you get athlete's foot.