Medical conditions of the foot

There are many medical conditions that can have an adverse impact on your feet and lower limbs. The following information is provided to acquaint you with some of these conditions, their causes and symptoms. If you suspect that you may have any of these conditions, you are strongly advised to consult your family physician and foot care specialist for advice and treatment.

Diabetes

It is estimated that over 2 million people in Canada and 16 million people in the United States have Diabetes. Diabetics can develop serious health issues with their feet and lower limbs. These issues can include a reduction of the blood supply to the foot which can hinder its ability to heal. Diabetics can also experience a decrease in sensitivity to pain and temperature change in their feet. This can lead to serious implications if the foot suffers a cut or abrasion and is left untreated.
Diabetics are encouraged to inspect their feet daily and seek immediate care if they note any irregularities.

Edema

Edema is swelling that occurs primarily in the feet, ankles and lower legs as a result of excessive fluid retention in the spaces between the body cells. This condition can be the result of diseases of the heart, liver or kidneys caused by salt retention which leads to excess fluid in the body. Varicose Veins in the legs or Thrombophlebitis may also be a factor in Edema that is localized to the leg.
Treatment generally involves addressing the underlying conditions leading to the disease and may include restricting salt intake. 

Vascular disorders

The body requires an appropriate amount of blood flow to ensure the functioning of all its parts. Blood flow may be reduced due to many factors including high cholesterol, diabetes, pregnancy or improper diet. When blood flow to the legs is reduced one is at risk of experiencing frequent cold feet, prolonged healing of cuts and abrasions, fatigue or aching of the lower leg and foot. Changes to ones life style including cessation of smoking, increased exercise, proper diet and weight control, can all contribute to improved vascular circulation. These should be done with the guidance of your physician.

Gout

Gout results from crystals of uric acid being deposited in the tissues of the body and can result in recurring attacks of joint inflammation. It has the dubious honor of being one of the most frequently recorded illnesses in history. While these deposits can occur throughout the body, they are more commonly found around the fingers, at the tips of the elbows and around the big toe. Men are more likely to suffer from gout particularly when over 60.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s Foot is caused by the accumulation of fungus around the foot. Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot can include itching and burning of the feet. If the skin is injured by the fungus, bacteria can invade the skin and result in unpleasant odors. In more severe cases the skin may become cracked or begin to peel causing pain and bleeding.
The first line of defense against Athlete’s Foot is keeping the foot clean and dry. Dry environments do not promote the growth of fungus and bacteria. Avoiding contact with contaminated elements is also advised.

Corns

Corns or calluses is a build-up of skin that forms at points that are under pressure from underlying bones. While most commonly found on the foot, they may also occur on the fingers. Females are more than twice as likely to contract Corns than males.
In addition to receiving medical treatment sufferers are generally encouraged to deal with the underlying reasons leading to their condition. These can include avoiding tight and restrictive shoes and wearing ergonomically designed shoes.  

Bunions

Bunions are the enlargement or deformity at the base of the big toe which often become swollen and tender. Studies report that women are much more likely to experience bunions. This may be due to the increased risk resulting from tight-fitting shoes, especially those with high heels and narrow toes. Other causes may be Hereditary Disease, Trauma or Inflamed Joint.

No medical benefit for any of these conditions through wearing any of our products should be inferred by the above material. All decisions to acquire any product due to a medical condition should only be made after consultation with a medical specialist and upon their advice.