No matter how well you take care of your feet, there are certain underlying medical problems that can cause foot issues. From poor circulation to diabetes, the feet can be affected by health conditions that cause numbness and non-healing sores which can create a systemic infection.
The solution is to keep your body healthy in order to keep your feet as healthy as possible. Let’s talk about some of the health conditions that most commonly trigger foot problems, and where you can go to maintain optimum foot health.
Underlying Causes of Foot Problems
Some of the most common reasons why people experience foot pain and difficulty walking include the following:
Diabetes
This condition is characterized by the body’s inability to produce enough insulin, or the inability to process insulin effectively. Diabetes is often manageable through medication and diet; however, diabetics must be aware that they are at risk of developing medical problems due to poor circulation in certain parts of their bodies, such as diabetic foot.
The high level of blood sugar can lead to poor blood circulation, which can in turn lead to nerve damage because the nerves are not getting sufficient oxygen from the blood. Because the feet are farthest away from the heart in the body, circulation is the least-efficient in the feet, and so this is where diabetic neuropathy tends to occur most often.
Arthritis
Arthritis refers to a group of more than 100 inflammatory diseases that can affect the joints. The specific effects of arthritis on your body depend on the type that you have. Some of its most common symptoms are joint swelling, pain, and stiffness.
Some types of arthritis commonly occur in the foot. These include rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, osteoarthritis, and gout.
Arteriosclerosis
Also called hardening of the arteries, arteriosclerosis happens when the blood vessels thicken and harden, affecting blood flow and the transport of oxygen and nutrients from the heart to the rest of the body. This condition develops gradually and may sometimes happen without any symptoms.
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a complication caused by this condition. It results in poor circulation of blood in the legs, which can cause injury to the nerves and other tissues. Its symptoms include foot pain, cramping, and tiredness. You may find walking difficult and feel less sensitive to temperature in your feet.
Kidney Disease
This condition may either be acute or chronic, depending on the severity of the kidney’s inability to function. Kidney failure triggers foot issues, as fluid retention causes swelling of the feet and ankles – making it difficult to stand or walk.
Foot Care in South Texas
Taking care of your whole body keeps its parts healthy, including your feet. Learning about the health conditions that can affect your feet helps you take a proactive role in your health and thereby prevent foot problems from developing.
Our board-certified podiatrists at The Podiatry Group of South Texas are here to help you with any foot issue, including those triggered by other medical conditions. Our doctors have years of experience in diagnosing, treating, and managing various foot problems.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, call us today at any of our locations across the Greater San Antonio area or fill out our appointment request form online now. Let us help you keep your feet healthy and strong!
