Eight Common Foot Problems That May Be Causing Your Pain

Your feet take a lot of daily abuse so naturally, they are exposed to many different issues. From inflammation to injuries, several different kinds of damage can lead to foot problems. Because September is Pain Awareness Month, today Dr. Joel Segalman, Dr. Stephen Lazaroff, and Dr. Brittany Ciaramello at Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC are sharing some common foot problems that may be causing your pain.

Athlete's foot: This is most commonly caused by walking in damp areas and can be extremely contagious. It can spread and cause pain, significant discomfort, and itching. 

Bunions: Bunions are irregularities of the feet that cause a bump to develop on the joint of the large toe, causing it to turn slightly inward. Women who wear high heels are more likely to have bunions due to increased pressure on their toes. 

Diabetic neuropathy: Diabetics are more disposed to fluctuations in blood sugar. Diabetic neuropathy is a series of conditions that cause damage to the feet due to diabetes. 

Ingrown toenails: Ingrown toenails cause discomfort and can become infected if left untreated. They develop when the toenail begins to grow into the nail groove, causing significant discomfort and pain. 

Plantar fasciitis: This is the most common cause of heel pain and it occurs when the plantar fascia – which is responsible for supporting the arches - becomes swollen. It’s an inflammatory condition that usually does not have a clear cause.

Blisters: Blisters are common, and most people will experience them at some point. They are raised pockets that are filled with fluid and not generally a serious concern. However, it is important to seek treatment when they occur frequently. 

Corns: These are patches of thick skin, often located on the bottom of the feet or toes, and are typically painless at the beginning. Corns can be caused by hammertoe, bunions, or poorly-fitting shoes, and may become painful over time. 

Heel spur: This is an outgrowth of calcium that develops between the arch of the foot and the heel bone. For many individuals, there are no symptoms but, for others, it can be painful and cause inflammation. 

If you’re experiencing any foot pain – mild or intense – don’t take chances. Contact the offices of Dr. Joel Segalman, Dr. Stephen Lazaroff, and Dr. Brittany Ciaramello at Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC today to schedule an appointment.

We serve both New Haven County and Fairfield County areas. Schedule an appointment by calling our Waterbury office at (203) 755-0489 or our Newtown location at (203) 270-6724.