Women’s Health Month: Three of the Most Common Female Foot Issues
Did you know that women are more susceptible to certain foot conditions than men? Since it’s Women’s Health Month, it’s the perfect time to highlight common foot conditions in women. Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, foot health often takes a backseat, but Clark Podiatry Center is here to change that and has outlined important info below.
Bunions:
- Bunions are bony bumps that develop on the joint at the base of the big toe, causing it to angle inward.
- Women are more prone to bunions due to factors like wearing tight or narrow shoes, high heels, and genetic predisposition.
- Prevention tips include wearing properly fitted shoes with a wide toe box, using orthotic inserts for support, and performing foot exercises to strengthen muscles.
Plantar Fasciitis:
- Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia, the tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, leading to heel pain and stiffness.
- Women, especially those who spend long hours on their feet or wear unsupportive footwear, are at increased risk of developing plantar fasciitis.
- Prevention strategies include wearing supportive shoes with cushioned insoles and stretching the calves and plantar fascia regularly.
Morton’s Neuroma:
- Morton’s neuroma is a painful condition caused by a thickening of the tissue around the nerves leading to the toes, typically between the third and fourth toes.
- Women, particularly those who wear high heels or tight shoes that compress the forefoot, are more likely to experience Morton’s neuroma.
- Prevention measures include wearing shoes with a wider toe box, avoiding high heels for extended periods, and using metatarsal pads or orthotic inserts for support.
Women’s foot health is a vital component of overall wellness, and understanding common foot conditions and how to prevent and treat them is key to keeping feet happy and healthy.
If you have questions or concerns about your feet, we’re here to help. At Clark Podiatry Center, Dr. Brandon A. Macy, a board-certified podiatrist, treats various conditions such as heel pain, diabetic wounds, bunions, nerve pain, and more. The New Jersey Children’s Foot Health Institute is also part of Clark Podiatry Center. We provide exceptional service for patients in Union County. Contact our office at (732) 382-3470 or schedule an appointment online. Our office is at 1114 Raritan Road, Clark, NJ 07066.