Oh, my achin’ feet!

Oh, my achin’ feet!

If the thought of striding three miles around the Rose Bowl (or three blocks around your neighborhood) sounds like torture, it’s time to address the cause of your pain. Here are a few possibilities:

Heel and arch pain, or plantar fasciitis, is an inflammation of the connective tissue on the bottom of the foot. There are several causes, but often the best remedy is putting an over-the-counter arch or heel support in your shoes, stretching the muscles in your feet and calves, and avoiding going barefoot.

Some patients may benefit from a special treatment called "Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy," in which sound waves are used to stimulate and reactivate the body’s repair mechanisms and speed up healing.

A bunion is an enlargement of the joint of the big toe, which forces the toe to angle in towards the others. Trade in tight, pointy shoes for those with a wider toe box. Other options include prescription orthotics or surgery.

Corns and calluses are unattractive and can be very painful. Both are caused by prolonged pressure or rubbing. Corns usually appear on the top of the toes; calluses on the ball of the foot. Often, the best treatment is soaking your feet in warm, soapy water and gently removing the dead skin with a pumice stone. Wearing shoes with a wide toe box, or inserting an arch support can help prevent corns and calluses.

However, patients with certain medical conditions such as diabetes, circulation problems, or arthritis should see a podiatrist for their foot care and not attempt home remedies.

Ingrown toenails happen when a nail is trimmed at an angle and the new growth presses into the skin. Ouch! To prevent infection, apply an antiseptic after soaking. However, if the toe becomes red or if you see a discharge, see your HMF doctor.

The office of HMF podiatrist Claire Futenma, D.P.M. can be reached at 626/397-8323.