5 Disorders Revealed by Your Feet

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Did you know that the condition of your feet often gives clues to what’s going on in the rest of your body? At NY Foot Health, we want to emphasize the importance of seeking evaluation of new or unusual symptoms promptly. Below are some health issues that may first show themselves in your feet and ankles.

  1. Diabetes—a wound or ulcer on your foot that is not healing can be a sign of high blood sugar or diabetes. Your podiatrist will want to get a complete medical history and may give you a referral to a physician that specializes in diabetes. Don’t have a podiatrist? We can help you find a qualified one in your area with our online directory.

  2. Poor Circulation--slow to heal wounds may also signal decreased blood flow to your legs and feet. Another sign of this is thinning of the hairs on your toes. Circulation problems can be indicative of peripheral arterial disease, hypertension , or other conditions that lead to heart attack and stroke.

  3. Arthritis—pain in the joints of your toes, feet, and ankles can be arthritis. Because your feet get so much use and have the stress of carrying the weight of your entire body, they may be the place where arthritis first manifest in your body. Gout, a form of arthritis, most often occurs in the joint at the base of the big toe.

  4. Neuropathy—frequent episodes of pins and needles in your feet or a decrease in the ability to feel sensations or numbness all point to nerve damage, known as neuropathy. Neuropathy is associated with diabetes and alcoholism. Left untreated, patients with neuropathy have a higher risk of sustaining a puncture wound, burn, or frostbite due to the inability to accurately perceive temperature and pain.

  5. Thyroid Disorder—very dry, flaky, or cracked skin on your feet can be a symptom of a thyroid disorder. Overly dry skin is also associated with diabetes.

Regular self-exams can help you detect changes in your feet that may indicate a problem elsewhere in your body. To learn more ways to be proactive in the health of your feet, contact us.

podiatric health, Podiatric MedicineNYSPMAdiabetes, peripheral arterial disease, hypertension, neuropathy