Written by Dr. Aisha Harris
Featured photo: Dr. Aisha Harris. Photo provided by Dr. Harris
Did you know the feet have some of the most complex anatomy in the body? The feet and hands contact more than half of the bones in the body. That means they are very important.
The feet support us, and there are some common foot problems that should be better addressed so we can literally walk around more comfortably!
All of your weight is supported by your feet. Meaning every pound you lose and gain, your feet feel the difference, for better or worse.
But outside of purely supporting the body weight and getting us from point A to point B, the feet are also at risk of developing their own problems!
A common foot problem is plantar fasciitis, as a majority of foot pain is caused by this disorder. Plantar fasciitis causes foot pain at the heel and bottom of the foot, specifically it causes pain in the area of the foot arch.
Have you ever had foot pain after sitting for too long? Have you ever gotten out of bed in the morning and your first steps were painful? These are classic signs that you might have plantar fasciitis.
In plantar fasciitis, the initial pain is often associated with stiffness, especially after periods of inactivity.
People are at risk for plantar fasciitis if they stand on hard surfaces for long periods, have flat feet, have high arches, are obese or they engage in excessive running.
If you have foot pain, it is recommended you get your foot evaluated by a doctor to help you decrease the pain and manage the problem. There are many ways to help treat plantar fasciitis that include stretches, foot supports, weight reduction, physical therapy, steroid injections and for some even surgery!
Plantar fasciitis should not be ignored because it can worsen over time causing more and more difficulty with mobility.
Our feet allow us to live the lives we want and do the things we want to do. If you are having foot pain or foot problems, go see a doctor to understand what is going on and what your options for management are!
Dr. Aisha Harris, MD, is a Flint native and board-certified family medicine doctor at Harris Family Health in Flint, Michigan. Harris Family Health is a membership-based clinic that provides personalized and full primary care to adults and children. Learn more about Harris Family Health by visiting www.harrisfamilyhealth.com.
Feel free to submit health questions to Dr. Harris via theflintcouriernews@gmail.com.
