Foot Warning Signs: Are your feet cold and numb, Could this be a symptom of a serious illness
News Topical, Digital Desk : Nail Color Changes Health Feet are often early warning systems for the body. Poor blood flow or nerve problems can cause numbness or cold feet. Early signs of foot health problems You walk on your feet every day, but often only notice them when pain starts. The truth is, little changes in your feet can be a sign of a major problem inside your body. Our feet have 26 bones and more than 100 muscles, tendons and ligaments that help us walk and balance. Changes here are not to be made lightly.
What do the pros say
“Feet bear the entire body weight and help us perform daily activities, but they are the most neglected,” Dr Anuj Chawla, Senior Director, Foot and Ankle Surgery, Fortis Gurugram, told TOI.
What are the symptoms
The feet are often the first signaling devices of the body. Poor blood flow or a nerve problem can cause cold feet or numbness. Dehydration or a thyroid disorder can be linked to cracked heels or very dry skin. Swollen ankles may be a sign of pressure on the heart, kidneys or liver. Any change in the color or thickness of the nails could be a sign of a fungal infection or an underlying medical condition.
Indications for patients with diabetes
These symptoms are more pronounced in diabetic patients. Undetected injuries can lead to increased infections and wounds, said Dr Chawla, as nerve damage, reduced blood supply and changes in the structure of the foot can cause them. Gangrene can develop and may even require amputation if left untreated. Another study published in Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism also reveals that the diabetes related complications are rapidly increasing in India with foot problems emerging as a major cause of hospitalisation.
Lifestyle is also to blame
Foot problems are not just age related these days, our lifestyles are a big contributor. Prolonged sitting reduces blood circulation, wearing incorrect shoes places pressure on muscles and joints, being overweight adds extra strain on feet and exercising weakens feet. Flat feet or high arches are also common problems, but most people don’t know about them.
What are the initial signs
Symptoms usually begin mild, with mild pain, swelling or blisters. But these problems can turn serious if unchecked. A little injury can lead to infection . Stiffness in joints can cause problems in mobility . Nerve issues can lead to loss of sensation . “Early diagnosis and treatment is important to maintain long term mobility,” says Dr. Chawla. Fortunately, treatment methods have improved and minimally invasive surgeries have reduced pain and recovery time .
But the most important thing is daily care. Check your feet every day, wear the right shoes, keep clean, do some gentle exercise, and control your weight and sugar levels. Small steps can mean freedom in the long run.
