Feet are susceptible to all sorts of problems. In some instances, people may be born with a misshapen foot. Sometimes, fungus may seep into the crevices of the foot and lead to intense itchiness. Sometimes, abnormal growths may occur on the foot. Fortunately, medical problems with the feet have specific treatments.
Clubfoot
Clubfoot refers to a structural problem in which the foot is twisted and may turn out or assume a wrong position. The Mayo Clinic indicates that clubfoot is congenital, which means that it is found at birth. Specifically, it says that the baby's foot may be twisted inward and pointing downward. This leads to an increased arch. In some instances, the calf muscles may not develop as well. The specific cause for clubfoot is unknown but some of its risk factors include being male and having a family history of it. Treating a clubfoot involves using the Ponseti method. This is a treatment technique in which the foot is manipulated and casted into place so that the correct foot position is assumed. Sometimes, surgery may be necessary to correct a clubfoot.
Athlete's Foot
Athlete's foot refers to a form of fungal infection, medically known as tinea pedis. The Mayo Clinic says that the infection invades the moist areas of the foot such as in between the toes. It says that specific symptoms of athlete's foot include burning, itching and stinging in between the toes. Sometimes, the skin on the soles of the feet and toes may crack or peel. In some instances, athlete's foot can lead to severe dryness of the feet. Some risk factors for developing athlete's foot include having a weak immune system, being male, wearing tight shoes, wearing damp socks or walking barefoot in such infectious regions as locker rooms, swimming pools and communal showers. Treating athlete's foot involves applying such antifungal medications as clotrimazole, terbinafine or miconazole.
Bunions
Bunions refer to a bump that develops between the first and second toe. MedlinePlus indicates that symptoms of bunions include skin that is red and calloused on the affected side of the big toe. Sometimes, the big toe can be turned toward all the other toes. Bunions typically occur in women and in families. Wearing high-heels and narrow shoes can increase the development for a bunion. Treating bunions involves wearing wide-toe shoes and taking care of your feet. Sometimes, surgery may be necessary to remove the bunion. This is known as a bunionectomy.
