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Skin and Beauty |
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Problems Afoot: Bunions and Thickened Nails |
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Source: Mind Your Body, The Straits Times. By: April Chong |
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The constant chaffing and pressure we subject our feet to every day can lead to painful problems. Podiatrists advise on what we can do to take better care of our feet.
Bunions
Bunions are structural deformities of the bones where the big toe is angled towards the second toe, resulting in a bony bulge at the big toe joint.
Bunions can be painful and there may be inflammation at the joint mostly due to rubbing against the side of the shoe. It may be hard to find shoes to fit feet with bunions and larger shoes are needed frequently.
How it happens
The condition may run in the family but, in most cases, wearing ill-fitting shoes over time leads to bunions forming.
Flat feet and ligaments which are too loose can also lead to bunions.
Treatment
Devices such as splints, toe separators and cushions can decrease the rate of bunion development. However, only surgery can correct the bony protuberance.
Thickened nails
Nails can thicken when there is trauma, such as when something heavy is dropped on the nail or when there is repeated pressure over time, like from wearing tight shoes. This is common among sportsmen.
Thickened nails appear yellowish and may be difficult to trim. They can also cause discomfort when wearing shoes.
Treatment
The condition is usually irreversible especially when the nail plate is damaged. What a person can do is to maintain the nail by trimming and filing it after a bath when the nails are softer.
A podiatrist can help reduce the thickness of the nail plate with a scalpel or special equipment.
Tips
■ Wear well-fitting and comfortable shoes, especially when doing sports. Avoid wearing high heels constantly.
■ Be cautious when buying insoles found in malls. Many are just over-the-counter types and may not be suitable. See a foot expert if you need customised insoles.
■ When in doubt about foot problems, do not try to treat them on your own. Seek professional advice. |
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Ref: V10 |
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| Comments
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| Dear Dr.
What wil happen if people with bunion do not go for surgery as I have observed alot of women are having this problem. As I am also have this problem and afraid of the pain. |
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| mojangie |
| 17/02/2012 20:55:41 |
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