By Dr. Renita Parker
In the era of information overload from our social media feeds, which tell us the simplest issues may be life-threatening and life-threatening issues can be fixed with an herb or over-the-counter remedy, we need to dive into the facts when it comes to foot health.
Podiatrists specialize in treating foot and ankle ailments and have completed eight years of education, as well as three to four years of surgical residency. As a podiatrist with nearly 20 years of experience, I’ve seen everything from simple ingrown nails to cancerous lesions.
Here are some common concerns and when to seek care:
1. INGROWN NAILS
- These are a common concern that can turn painful or lead to infection.
- Home treatments often make things worse. Trapped bacteria can cause serious infections, even requiring IV antibiotics. It’s crazy to think that a simple ingrown nail can lead to a toe amputation or six-to-eight weeks of IV antibiotic treatment.
- High-risk patients (diabetics, those on blood thinners, neuropathy sufferers, cancer patients) always should seek medical care rather than trying to fix it themselves.
2. HEEL PAIN
- This is often caused by plantar fasciitis (inflammation around the plantar fascial band), but it also can result from nerve damage or joint disease.
- If caught early, pain can be relieved in under a month. Left untreated, it can linger for months.
- The right shoes and a proper treatment plan can get you back to doing what you love pain free.
3. DIABETIC FOOT CHECKS
- Diabetes is the leading cause of lower-extremity amputations in the U.S.
- If you or a loved one has diabetes, an annual foot exam is essential — or every three months for those with poor circulation, neuropathy or past foot wounds.
- Daily foot checks and avoiding barefoot walking (even indoors) can prevent infections from small cuts or injuries.
4. DRY SKIN AND FOOT CARE
- Keep your feet soft and healthy by moisturizing daily; just avoid lotion between your toes to prevent fungal infections.
- Here are some great creams to try: Aquaphor, Eucerin cream and balm, Nivea cream and Vaseline.
- Dry skin should be buffed with foot files weekly to keep the skin smooth. Razors or cheese-grater styles are not advised.
- If dry, cracked skin doesn’t improve, it could be a sign of fungal infection or psoriasis; a podiatrist can help.
Bottom line: Your feet take you everywhere, so take care of them! A little daily attention can prevent big problems later. If something feels wrong, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with a podiatrist and keep moving comfortably.
Dr. Renita Parker is a podiatrist with Memorial Health System. Reach her at (228) 822-6320.