April is National Foot Awareness Month, a time to emphasize the importance of foot health. Did you know that your feet can actually provide insight into your overall health? According to Joy Rowland, DPM, a podiatrist at Cleveland Clinic, different disease processes can often manifest in the feet. These can range from conditions such as heart disease, kidney disease, lymphedema, and vascular disease to dermatological issues like psoriasis.
Dr. Rowland emphasized that the appearance of the feet can also indicate poor circulation or diabetes. Sometimes, individuals may be surprised to learn that the pain or discomfort they are experiencing in their feet is actually related to a different medical condition, such as nerve damage from a back injury. In these cases, additional tests may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
It’s not just the feet that can reveal important health information; the toenails can also offer clues. Thickened, crumbly, or brittle toenails may indicate conditions such as psoriasis, fungal nail infections, or nail dystrophy. Nail dystrophy is a condition that results from repetitive injury to the toenail and is not always caused by nail fungus.
Dr. Rowland mentioned that some people may tolerate foot pain or discomfort for years before seeking medical attention. However, she stressed the importance of not delaying a visit to a podiatrist