You're Not Alone If These Foot Problems Have Arisen Over the Years

It happens to everyone. Your body starts aching as you age. You’re not as flexible as you used to be. It seems like every part of your body is sore. 

An estimated 100 million Americans live with chronic pain. And though supportive shoes can go a long way to alleviate pain, foot issues are very common. According to the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), eight out of 10 Americans have experienced a foot problem, and half say it has impacted their quality of life. That’s a lot of people. 

So, remember, you are not alone if you suffer from one of these common foot problems:

Plantar Fasciitis

Pain on the bottom of your heels is usually caused by stiffness and irritation of the plantar fascia, the ligament that runs from your heel to your toes and supports your arch. Excessive stress from exercise, wearing the wrong shoe size, body weight and aging all contribute to this problem. Wearing supportive shoes, foot massages, and icing the area can help.

Osteoarthritis 

This is one of the most common forms of arthritis. It happens when the cushion between your bones wears down, in turn causing your joints to swell. Treatments for osteoarthritis include anti-inflammatory medications, arch supports, and physical therapy. 

Stress Fractures

As you age, you lose bone density, making the bones throughout your body more fragile. This may lead to fractures. Stress fractures are also caused by overuse in activities such as running and jumping. You can’t prevent aging, but there are a few ways to avoid stress fractures, including monitoring your weight, eating foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, and more.

Cracked Heels 

Not only can they hurt, but they also don’t look pretty. When the top layer of your skin is so dry that it becomes hard and flaky, cracks can appear, making it worse. Special creams are available to help soften the skin. Pumice stones can also be used to remove dead skin.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are just like they sound: It’s when a nail grows into your skin. They usually happen when you cut your nails too short, but can also appear when you wear shoes that are too small for your feet or if you hurt your toe (stubbing it). If an infection occurs, see a podiatrist. 

Bunions

Bunions are bony bumps that grow slowly inside the foot at the big toe joint. Find out if you are wearing the right shoe size and make sure to get rid of shoes that are way too tight to keep bunions at bay. 

Looking for 100% all-natural foot and body products? Check out The Runner’s Choice foot care oil for tired and achy feet and ReliefMD body oil to help with the discomfort of sore muscles. Subscribe to our Trusted Health Club newsletter for more information about natural living tips, natural health, oral health and skincare. If you are looking for more health resources check out the Trusted Health Resources list.  

Written By:

Rae Steinbach is a graduate of Tufts University with a combined International Relations and Chinese degree. After spending time living and working abroad in China, she returned to NYC to pursue her career and continue curating quality content. Rae is passionate about travel, food, and writing for Taos Footwear.

Reviewed By:

Founder Ray Spotts has a passion for all things natural and has made a life study of nature as it relates to health and well-being. Ray became a forerunner bringing products to market that are extraordinarily effective and free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives. For this reason Ray formed Trusted Health Products, a company you can trust for clean, effective, and healthy products. Ray is an organic gardener, likes fishing, hiking, and teaching and mentoring people to start new businesses. You can get his book for free, “How To Succeed In Business Based On God’s Word,” at www.rayspotts.com.

Photo by Imani Clovis on Unsplash