What Your Feet Reveal About Your Health

The condition of the feet can provide important clues about overall health. Poor circulation, often linked to diabetes or vascular disease, may cause cold feet, numbness, or slow-healing wounds. Changes in toenails, such as discoloration or thickening, can indicate fungal infections or underlying medical conditions. The arches of the feet play a role in posture and alignment, and issues such as flat feet or high arches may contribute to joint pain and imbalance. Skin conditions, including dryness, cracks, or unusual rashes, may signal nutritional deficiencies or autoimmune disorders. Persistent foot odor, beyond normal sweating, can suggest bacterial or fungal infections. If you notice any changes to your feet, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can link any of these changes to possible health issues and provide treatment.

When dealing with systemic disease of the feet, it is extremely important to check the affected areas routinely so that any additional problems are caught quickly.  If you have any concerns about your feet and ankles contact Alex Kim, DPM from AVID Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctor will assist you with all of your podiatric needs.

Systemic Diseases of the Feet

Systemic diseases affect the whole body, and symptoms usually are displayed in the feet. This condition can make a patient’s ability to walk unbearable.  Systemic diseases include gout, diabetes mellitus, neurological disorders, and arthritis.

Gout – is caused by an excess of uric acid in the body. Common symptoms include pain, inflammation, and redness at the metatarsal/phalangeal joint of the base big toe. Gout can be treated by NSAIDs to relieve pain and inflammation, and other drugs that lower the acid levels in the body.

Diabetes mellitus – is an increase in the level of blood sugar that the body cannot counteract with its own insulin. Failure to produce enough insulin is a factor in Diabetes.

Diabetes of the Feet

Diabetic Neuropathy – may lead to damaged nerves and affect the feet through numbness and loss of sensation.

Peripheral Vascular Disease – can restrict the blood flow to the feet, and often times lead to amputation of the feet. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Little Elm, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.