Dr. Arnold Beresh, a podiatrist in Hampton and Newport News, Virginia, discussed foot pain and common foot ailments with host Pat Robertson on The 700 Club. Dr. Beresh, certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery, believes that understanding the anatomy of the foot plays an integral part in a patient’s plan to eliminate foot pain and achieve optimal foot health for a lifetime.
ANATOMY OF THE FOOT
Understanding the anatomy of the foot is crucial since this is one of the most complex parts of the body, consisting of 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. The foot is susceptible to many stresses. Foot problems or injury can cause pain and inflammation, resulting in limited movement and mobility. Conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, nerve and circulatory disorders can show their initial symptoms in the feet – so foot ailments can be your first sign of more serious medical problems. Dr. Beresh says some “red flags” to be aware of with regard to your foot health include:
• Persistent pain lasting 2 to 3 days
• Pain that increases over time
• Redness
• Infection
• Drainage
If any of these symptoms persist, you should always consult your physician for a diagnosis.
COMMON FOOT PROBLEMS
Dr. Beresh says in order to have optimal foot health you have to be aware of how to take care of your feet. Some of the most common foot problems that he sees are often preventable. The five most common foot problems include:
- Athlete’s Foot – Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that usually appears between the toes, however the infection can affect any part of the foot. Athlete’s foot can be caught from infected people when walking on moist surfaces, e.g. swimming pools, shared bathrooms, or when sharing towels or footwear. The infection can also spread to other parts of the body.
- Mycotic Toenails – Mycotic toenails usually give the nail a thickened, crusty and yellow appearance. They are fungal infections often caused by the same fungus that causes athlete’s foot.
- Plantar Fasciitis – This is a condition that refers to the inflammation of the tissues connected to the heel bone. Plantar Faciitis is due to excessive pulling and stretching of the fibrous bands that support the arch of the foot, usually the result of improper foot biomechanics – a condition where the foot rolls inward or outward. Dr. Beresh utilizes a new specialized technique called Cryoanalgesia that provides long-term pain relief for various chronic podiatric conditions such as Morton’s neuroma, plantar fasciitis, neuritis and fibromas. The procedure is minimally invasive and has proven to be extremely successful with long lasting results for chronic foot problems.
- Sprains and Strains – Ankle sprains (stretching / tearing of ankle ligaments) are one of the most common types of ankle injuries. Ankle sprains occur when the foot is forced into an unnatural position, usually when encountering an uneven surface; however it can be due to the genetic makeup of the individual’s foot, or caused by injury or trauma.
- Shoe Problems – Shoes that do not fit can cause bunions, corns, calluses, hammertoes and other disabling foot disorders such as neuromas and general foot pain. You should wear correctly sized shoes and regularly inspect your feet.
RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FOOTWEAR
According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, 25 to 40% of all people have foot problems, mostly caused by improperly fitting footwear. In fact, Dr. Beresh says that oftentimes foot deformities and pinched nerves can develop as a result of improperly fitting shoes. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons has developed tips to help people reduce their risk of foot problems. Use this guide when you shop for shoes:
CREDITS: Dr. Arnold Beresh has been certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery; Diplomate of the American Board of Podiatric Surgery; Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons; Certified Wound Care Specialist; Member of the American Podiatric Medical Association; Past President of the Virginia Podiatric Medical Association; Wayne State University, BS; Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine, DPM; Residency in podiatric medicine and surgery at Straith Memorial Hospital in Southfield, Michigan.