Risk Factors
Some risk factors could make you more prone to foot problems:
- If you are female, you are vulnerable to four times as many foot problems as men, particularly if you usually wear high heels.
- If you are older than 50, you have probably walked more than 75,000 miles. Feet widen and flatten, and the fat padding on the sole of the foot wears down as people age.
- After age 65, your risk of developing a bunion doubles.
- Because of shoe styles, women are 50 percent more likely than men to have ingrown toenails.
- Athletes, particularly runners and gymnasts, are at increased risk because of the constant stress on the foot. Sports like soccer and football expose the foot and ankle to potential trauma.
- Obesity puts extra weight and pressure on the feet.
- If you have diabetes or are at risk for diabetes, you need to pay special attention to your feet. Diabetes can impair circulation and nerve sensations in the feet, greatly increasing the risk of injuries and their ability to heal. Pay attention to symptoms such as tingling, numbness and pain in the lower legs.
More on Foot Problems
How Diabetes Affect Your Feet
Foot Problems as Symptoms and Signs
Young Feet, Old Feet
Flat Facts About High Heels
In the Encyclopedia:
Athlete's foot
Corns and calluses
Charcot's joints
Clubfoot
Diabetic foot infections
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