subject: Common Foot Problems [print this page] Common Foot Problems Common Foot Problems
Podiatrists have all kinds of different patients come in their doors. They could have something as simple as a blister, or it could be as serious as a bone fracture and torn ligaments that would require surgery. In between these extremes they may have to deal with bacterial infections, skin damage, and also toenail deformities. Whatever the problem, these foot doctors are trained to be able to take care of whatever comes their way. Here is a list of some of the most common foot problems for a foot doctor to see.
First on the list is that of bunions. Bunions are known as big toe joints that have been misaligned and then they became large and very tender. This creates a slant in the big toe and it will start to point outward and the other toe to angle back in towards the other toes. This kind of a foot ailment is usually hereditary and is usually made worse by shoes that are too small or too narrow. One of the best ways to take care of this foot problem is to get surgery. These surgeries are very effective and almost painless.
Another very frequent foot problem is that of hammertoe. Hammertoe is caused when there is an imbalance in the muscles in the toes. This makes the toes go into a claw like position. These sometimes can accompany bunions and can affect all of the toes on the foot. One of the best ways to treat this foot problem is to get shoes that don't cramp the toes up.