Pain-Free Feet
Saturday, February 9th, 2008
1. Ill fitting shoes cause bunions? [T or F]
2. Osteoporosis is a foot condition? [T or F]
3. Plantar fasciitis is a nasty case of warts. [T or F]
4. It’s not safe to remove corns at home. [T or F]
5. Broken toes don’t need to be treated. [T or F]
Answers:
1. False. High heels and other toe-squishing footwear might contribute to the problem, but these abnormal bony growths form because of laxity in the joint at the base of the big toe. Trading in narrow, poity-toed pumps for low-heeled, roomy shoes can slow or even halt a bunion’s progression.
2. True. While this progressive bone loss disease most commonly affects the spine or hips, a stress fracture in the foot is often one of the first signs of it.
3. False. It’s actually an inflammation of the connective tissue running from your heel to the base of your toews. Plantar fasciitis becomes more common with age. See your doctor, who may suggest a program of pain medication and stretches.
4. True. Cutting away these highly concentrated areas of tough skin or removing them with medicated pads can lead to infection. Because most corns are caused by ill-fitting shoes or a tendency to roll inward or outward while walking (both put friction on tender spots), take preventive action by wearing roomy shoes that don’t rub and asking your doctor about orthotics to correct gait problems.
5. False. Toe bones that don’t heal properly can lead to arthritis and deformities later. Taping is the usual treatment for a fracture, but if an x-ray confirms that the bone is also out of alignment, a cast, pin, screw, or plate may be needed to reposition it.
(Source: Prevention 2008)
