Take a Good Look at Your Feet

At Texas Foot Specialists, we’re betting it’s been a while since you really looked over your feet. Regular self-exams are an important part of preventive podiatric care. Many foot and ankle disorders, and even some systemic diseases, can be detected in their early stages through changes you can observe. The key is making self-exams a habit and part of your podiatric care routine. Not only will this help you become familiar with your feet, but it will also enable you to spot the signs of a developing podiatric problem in its earliest stages. This is the time when conditions are usually most easily and successfully treated.

So, what should you be looking for?

Skin changes—skin that is discolored, bruised, or swollen without a known injury can be a cause for concern. You should also be on the lookout for rashes and new or changing moles and freckles.

Abnormalities—growths, bumps and lumps in your feet are never “nothing.” That being said, they are not always indicative of a serious problem, but they should be brought to the attention of the podiatrist for evaluation.

Toes—pay attention to a toe that looks like it’s curling under, moving out of place, or starting to overlap another toe. These may be a sign of a bunion, hammertoe, or other deformity. Also inspect toenails for signs of fungal infections, including crumbling on the edges, thickening, or discoloration. Look at the edges of the nails to make sure they are not becoming ingrown.

In addition to changes in the appearance of your feet, you should be tuned in to new or concerning sensations. Pain, burning, tingling, or difficulty maintaining your balance are also signs of developing disorders.

Any symptoms that are new, unusual, or uncomfortable should be brought to the attention of our podiatrists, Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum. Contact our Sugar Land 281-242-4448, Pasadena 281-991-0600 or Houston 713-664-6677 offices for an appointment at your earliest convenience.