Relief for Common Foot Problems

A recent issue of Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource covers foot problems that are common in women, particularly as they age. Years of frequent high heal wear can cause permanent damage to tendons in the heel and shoes that are too tight can cause problems. Some of these suggestions address common concerns about feet and what to do for relief.

Blisters are caused by the friction of shoes against the skin. Blisters should not be ruptured, and applying a moleskin or bandage helps.

Bunions are misaligned big toe joints where the big toe slants toward the second toe. This can cause the joints to become swollen and tender, especially if aggravated by tight shoes. Wearing wider shoes, as well as cushioning pads or shoe inserts, can help.

Corns and calluses are thick, hardened layers of skin that develop where the foot frequently rubs against the shoe. Moleskin or padding may relieve pain or discomfort.

Hammertoe is a condition where a toe, often the second, bends like a claw. It's often a result of a misaligned muscle but it can be aggravated if a person wears ill-fitting shoes. On occasion, surgery is needed to realign the toes.

Heel pain is caused by the stretching or tearing of the band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. The pain can increase without proper arch and heel support. Ice massage, gentle stretching of the arch, and arch-support inserts can relieve tension.

Ingrown toenails caused by impropper clipping can cause the toenail to grow into the skin. Always refer to a doctor to remove ingrown toenails that are painful or infected.

Joint pain in the ball of the foot or metatarsalgia is a condition commonly caused by wearing high heels. Discomfort can be relieved through applying ice to the foot and avoiding further stress.

Pump bump is a term for a bony enlargement on the back of the heel. Shoes with rigid backs or straps can aggravate the bump. Pain can be erased by avoiding shoes that aggravate the condition.

Tight heel cords or Achilles tendinitis are caused by high heels. Through elevating the heel, high heel shoes prevent the Achilles tendon from full stretching. The result is the shortening of the tendon. Rest and ice can relieve pain short term and stretching and orthotic devices may ease long term discomfort.