Unhealthy feet stem from a combination of factors, often interacting to create various problems. Improper footwear, diabetes, and aging are primary culprits, but other issues contribute significantly.
Leading Causes of Unhealthy Feet:
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Improper Footwear: Wearing ill-fitting shoes, such as flip-flops which offer minimal support [https://www.templehealth.org/about/blog/why-flip-flops-are-bad-for-your-feet], or shoes that are too tight or narrow, can lead to several problems. This includes bunions (swollen bumps at the base of the big toe) [https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/symptoms/foot-pain], hammertoes (toes curled into an unnatural position) [https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17038-hammertoes], and corns and calluses (from repeated friction and pressure) [https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16896-corns-and-calluses]. High heels can also contribute to foot problems.
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Diabetes: High blood sugar levels damage nerves and blood vessels in the feet, leading to diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage) [https://medlineplus.gov/diabeticfoot.html] and poor circulation. This increases the risk of infections, ulcers, and even amputation [https://medlineplus.gov/diabeticfoot.html]. Diabetic foot problems are a major concern requiring careful management.
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Aging: As we age, our feet naturally change. Loss of cushioning, decreased flexibility, and joint degeneration can cause pain and discomfort. Arthritis also becomes more prevalent with age, affecting foot joints and causing inflammation and pain [https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/ss/slideshow-what-your-feet-say].
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Other Contributing Factors: Beyond the major causes, several other factors can affect foot health:
- Excessive Exercise: Overuse and repetitive strain can lead to conditions like plantar fasciitis (inflammation of the plantar fascia) [https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319190] and tendonitis (inflammation of tendons).
- Fungal Infections: Athlete's foot (tinea pedis) thrives in warm, moist environments, commonly affecting the areas between the toes [https://www.everydayhealth.com/foot-health-pictures/common-foot-problems.aspx].
- Ingrown Toenails: These painful conditions can develop from improper nail trimming or tight shoes [https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319190].
- Bone Spurs: These bony growths can cause heel pain [https://www.webmd.com/diabetes/ss/slideshow-what-your-feet-say].
- Peripheral Neuropathy (Not related to diabetes): This nerve damage can cause weakness, numbness and pain in the hands and feet [https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/peripheral-neuropathy/symptoms-causes/syc-20352061].