Going Toe-to-toe With Foot Pain
Posted on April 8, 2009 by Tam
If it s getting harder to put one foot in front of the other, chances are you re not alone. In fact, podiatrists say that millions of Americans experience some kind of foot trouble on a regular basis. These problems can range from foot odor to ingrown toenails to various types of pain. Foot ailments are among the most common health problems affecting the American population. However, many don t seek medical treatment because they mistakenly believe that discomfort and pain are normal and expectable - especially with age. A recent survey conducted by the American Podiatric Medical Association of 1,695 adults ages 18 to 60 found that 47 percent had experienced a foot ailment in their lifetime. Although the prevalence of foot ailments was high, only about 7 percent had visited a podiatrist. About 16 percent treated their condition with over-the-counter products. Men experienced slightly more cases of tendonitis, skin cancer and nail problems, while women suffered more general types of foot pain, including pain in the balls of the feet, heel pain and...