Men: Don’t Ignore Foot and Ankle Pain
By Jane Hart, MD
Healthnotes Newswire (April 3, 2008)—Common foot and ankle conditions are easier to treat if diagnosed early, according to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. But men often resist going to the doctor, and that resistance can lead to worsening of their condition. The following are examples of foot and ankle ailments that call for medical help:
• Heel pain. This may be caused by a number of ailments including abnormal bone growth on the heel (heel spurs), inflammation of tissue on the bottom of the foot (plantar fasciitis), a pinched nerve, bone fracture, and inflammation of the Achilles tendon, located just above the heel (Achilles tendonitis). The cause of heel pain is not always clear, so it is important to see a doctor who can properly diagnose and treat the condition, potentially avoiding future complications.
• Toe pain. Pain or stiffness in the big toe is common in men and may be caused by simple problems, such as wearing shoes that are too small or too tight, or more complicated problems, such as bunions, gout, or arthritis. Allowed to persist, big toe pain may lead to arthritis, so it should not be ignored.
• Ingrown toenails. Too often men try to deal with ingrown toenails on their own, performing what the American College of Foot and Ankles Surgeons refers to as “bathroom surgery.” This is not recommended since such manipulation can introduce bacteria, which can lead to infection. See a doctor or podiatrist for help with ingrown toenails.
• Ankle pain. Ankle pain may be caused by strain that occurs from overuse but also from sprains (injury to the ligaments in the ankle) and bone fractures. The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons points out that men who do not seek medical treatment for an ankle sprain are at risk for repeated sprains and chronic ankle instability.
• Skin disorders. Foot and ankle pain are not always caused by structural problems but may be caused by skin conditions such as plantar’s warts, fungal or bacterial infections, psoriasis, and eczema.
For more detailed information about these conditions see the organization’s website at www.acfas.org.
(American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, accessed March 2008: www.acfas.org)
Jane Hart, MD, board-certified in internal medicine, serves in a variety of professional roles including consultant, journalist, and educator. Dr. Hart, a Clinical Instructor at Case Medical School in Cleveland, Ohio, writes extensively about health and wellness and a variety of other topics for nationally recognized organizations, Web sites, and print publications. Sought out for her expertise in the areas of integrative and preventive medicine, she is frequently quoted by national and local media. Dr. Hart is a professional lecturer for healthcare professionals, consumers, and youth and is a regular corporate speaker.
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