Guys, admit it – we don’t always take care of our health as we should. After all, with everything that we have going on, we won’t let a little foot pain or skin problem stop us.
But many foot problems can worsen quickly if not tackled right away. Not only that, but many of us wear shoes and socks all day long, where women often wear more open shoes in warmer weather. The result? Many unpleasant foot conditions just thrive in these damp, dark environments.
In honor of all the fathers and fathers-to-be on Father’s Day, here are some common foot issues that often affect men – and what to do about them:
Athlete’s foot. If the skin on your feet and toes is dry, itchy and even burning with rashes or blisters, you probably have athlete’s foot. This contagious skin problem can be picked up in public areas like pools, showers and locker rooms. Prevent athlete’s foot by wearing flip-flops in these spots. We can prescribe oral and topical medications to wipe out this problem.
Toenail fungus. Just like athlete’s foot, the fungi that can infect your toenails are contagious and love sweaty shoes. You’ll notice that your toenails have a different color and texture and even an unpleasant odor. Avoid fungal nail by washing your feet and toes every day and trimming the nails neatly. Prescription antibiotics can stop the infection, as can removing the infected part of the nail.
Calluses and corns. Not pleasant subjects! But these skin growths can become painful if not addressed. Make sure your shoes fit well with ample room in the toe box. Custom-fitted orthotics can help ease the friction that causes these problems. If you experience pain, come in so we can professionally shave away the dead skin.
Warts. It’s not true that only witches have warts! Plantar warts grow into your foot from the bottom and are caused by the human papillomavirus. Because they are contagious, they can be picked up in public places or from person-to-person. You will need professional treatment from a foot doctor to have them permanently removed.
Foot Pain Is Not Normal!
Whether you regularly work out or are a weekend warrior, or just enjoy walking the dog, beware of foot pain! You do not have to tolerate foot pain because we have many solutions to your foot health issues.
It’s okay to complain about your feet and seek the help of a trained podiatrist. Whether we find that you have heel pain, flat feet, bunions or a hammertoe, we have the right diagnostic technology to assess your problem and create a customized treatment plan just for you.
Man up and call our office today for an evaluation! You will be glad you did when your foot problem is healed and you can go about your daily activities without discomfort.
Let Us Help Relieve Your Foot Pain
Foot or toe pain is not normal! If you have any discomfort from arthritis, an injury or just from overuse, please call Michele Kurlanski, DPM at Lighthouse Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Kurlanski offers expert and professional podiatry services in Cumberland County, Maine. Please call us today at 207-774-0028 to schedule your appointment in our Scarborough office.