The feet, the often overlooked parts of the body, are actually a barometer of health. In the medical field, foot conditions are often seen as a reflection of overall health. Imagine that every time your feet touch the ground while walking, you are sending a signal about your health. However, these signals are often overlooked.
A 70-year-old retired teacher went to the doctor for foot pain, and the test found that it was a warning of early diabetes. This case reveals a profound truth: abnormalities in the feet are often a precursor to deeper health problems.
Feet: A window to health
The feet not only support the weight of the body, but are also an important indicator of health. The comfort or discomfort of each step can be a reflection of the physical health condition.
Every inch of the foot, it speaks
Symptoms of the feet are often overlooked, but they can reveal a variety of health problems. For example, abnormal pain in the soles of the feet may indicate diabetes. Studies have shown that about 25% of people with diabetes experience foot problems. Stiff or swollen toes can be an early sign of arthritis. A study involving 2,000 participants found that more than half of people with arthritis initially experienced discomfort in their feet.
The temperature and color of the footsteps should not be overlooked
Equally important is the temperature change in the feet. Cold feet can be a sign of poor circulation. Overheating of the feet, especially at night, can be an early sign of peripheral neuropathy. In addition, changes in the color of the skin on the feet, such as pale or purple, usually point to impaired circulation.
Subtle changes in the structure of the feet
Changes in the structure of the foot, such as the sinking of the arch of the foot, are also of concern. Abnormal changes in the arch of the foot can lead to gait disorders, which in turn can affect the health of the knees and back. In a study involving middle-aged and older adults, it was found that there was a direct correlation between the sinking arch of the foot and knee pain.
Every step is a sign of health
Therefore, every discomfort in the footsteps is worth paying attention to. Regularly self-examining your feet and observing changes in pain, swelling, color, and temperature is an important step in maintaining your health. In daily life, paying attention to the comfort and protection of your feet can help detect and prevent potential health problems in advance.
Nine foot symptoms to watch out for
Persistent cruralgia: not only a sign of "fatigue".
Long-term cruralgia may indicate arthritis, osteoporosis or other bone problems. People with arthritis often experience tingling or cramping in their feet, especially in the early morning. Symptoms of osteoporosis include broken feet, which can occur even under light stress.
Swelling of the feet: a hidden sign of heart and kidney problems
Constant swelling in both feet or one foot can be a sign of a deficient heart or kidney problems. For example, a weakened heart can lead to poor circulation, which can cause swelling in the feet. Kidney insufficiency can lead to a buildup of fluid in the body, which can also cause swelling.
Skin changes on the feet: a reflection of inner health
Changes in skin color, such as purple or redness, can be a sign of circulatory problems. Dry or blotchy skin may indicate thyroid problems or diabetes.
Nail deformation or discoloration: Hidden health alerts
Deformation or discoloration of toenails is often the result of a fungal infection. For example, yellow or white streaks that form under the nail bed may indicate a fungal infection. In addition, nail deformity can also be an outward manifestation of diseases such as psoriasis.
Abnormal sensation in the toes or feet: nerve and circulatory signals
Numbness or tingling in the toes or feet is often a sign of peripheral neuropathy, which is especially common in people with diabetes. In addition, a cold or burning sensation may indicate obstruction of blood circulation.
Structural changes in the feet: potential warnings
A sinking or change in the arch of the foot may indicate a structural problem with the foot, such as flat feet. This change can make walking difficult and even affect the knees and back.
Difficulty walking: not just a sign of "old age".
Difficulty or pain while walking can be a sign of a joint disorder, such as patellar osteoarthritis. This disease causes inflammation and pain in the joints, especially after walking for long periods of time.
Abnormal temperature changes in the feet: an alarm for blood circulation
Unusually cold or excessively hot feet may indicate circulatory problems. For example, peripheral vascular disease can cause an abnormal drop in the temperature of the feet.
Slow healing of foot wounds: a recessive sign of diabetes
Slow healing of foot wounds is a common problem in people with diabetes. High blood sugar levels interfere with the normal healing process and increase the risk of infection.
"Protecting Your Health Starts with Your Feet: A Practical Guide to Routine Foot Care and Self-Examination"
The feet, the often overlooked window to health, are actually an important indicator of overall health. Maintaining foot health is not complicated, and daily attention and simple self-examination can help detect potential health problems in time.
Foot care starts with the basics. Keeping your feet clean and dry is key to preventing fungal infections. After washing your feet every day, make sure that the betweens between your toes are thoroughly dry. Choose well-breathable footwear and socks to avoid humid environments, especially in summer or after exercise. In addition, proper foot care products can help keep the skin supple and prevent dryness.
It is essential to perform regular self-examinations of your feet. At least once a week, carefully check the condition of your toes, soles, heels, and toenails. Pay special attention to any abnormal changes, such as swelling, changes in skin color or texture, deformed or discolored nails. For example, if you notice a darker or thicker toenail color, it could be a sign of a fungal infection. If you notice frequent numbness and tingling in your toes or soles, it may be an early sign of diabetes or a neurological disorder.
Wearing the right footwear is the key to preventing foot problems. Choose shoes that provide good support and enough space, and avoid wearing high heels or shoes that are too narrow for long periods of time, which can lead to problems such as arch collapse, corns, or hallux valgus. In fact, the choice of shoes is not only related to the comfort of the feet, but also has a direct impact on the health of the feet and overall bones.
Exercises to strengthen the muscles of the feet are equally important. Simple foot stretching and strengthening Xi, such as toe grasping or foot reflexology, can strengthen foot muscles, improve flexibility and prevent sports injuries.