Since our feet are what bear the brunt of most of the harsh aspects in our everyday lives, it is vital we learn to give back and take care of our feet in order to prevent the never ending list of feet problems.

Feet problems are very common and are nothing to be ashamed about. Many of us have been there, experienced the pain and discomfort, and the embarrassment of facing these issues. However there is something you can do to help yourself, and that is learn ways of how to prevent such problems in occurring in tine, and if not, then ways to treat and care for you special feet.

Here are a list of the most common feet problem, feet problem symptoms, and ways to treat or prevent them.

Bacterial and Fungal Feet Problems

This is a very common problem and interestingly – has little to do with poor hygiene habits. Bacterial and fungal feet problems are very common amongst athletes. This is because athletes spend a lot of their time training in closed shoes. The shoe then becomes moist from the sweat, humid from the heat and it is obviously dark.These three conditions are a breeding ground for bacteria. This problem is something you need to take care of immediately as once it starts spreading it will get a lot worse! This includes Blisters, Peeling, Dry skin, Red skin. Preventing this problem from occurring and treating is very easy. All you have to do is learn how to give your feet a break and let them air. Keep them extra clean and make sure they are dry. And most importantly, make sure you change your shoes and socks regularly!

Flat Fleet

Flat fleet may lead to severe pain in the knees, lower back and ankles. Moreoever, individuals with flat feet are more prone to foot related injuries (such as sprains) and may even experience poor coordination. However, not everyone with flat feet experience the above mentioned complications. If you do, there are many specialists that design footwear and other equipment which may help flat fleet.

Ingrown Nails

Ingrown toenails are commonly caused as a result of the nail breaking into the skin surrounding the toe. This is where the necessity of basic hygiene kicks in. In order to prevent this from happening, it is important you trim your toe nails on a regular basis and cut them in a straight line.

Hammertoe

This is caused due to shortened tendons in the toe that control movements. This can severely effect your balance and the way you walk. Some people with dire hammertoe conditions even require surgery, while those who do not, may wear loose fitted closed shoes that are comfortable, more spacious and easy to walk with.

Spurs

Spurs may be caused by standing for long periods, wearing uncomfortable shoes constantly or being overweight. Those with spurs are advised to wear heal pads or heel cups. However, those who experience a severe case of spurs are probably even in need of surgery. A doctor should be consulted.

Bunions

This is caused when the joints of your toes no longer fit together properly and thereofore cause your toe to become very tender and even swollen. This is usually a hereditary problem and therefore depending on the severity of your bunion problem you can wear pads inside your shoe that will help protect and cushion your bunion or you can even buy shoes with a deeper and wider in step!

Dry Skin and Irritation

Dry skin is another very common foot problem that can be easily treated and prevented. All you have to do is lather up some moisturizing soap and some nice creamy moisturizer or lotion and just apply on your feet, daily. This will help both, preventing and treating dry skin and irritation.

Calluses and Corns

This problem is caused by the constant rubbing of the bony parts of your feet to your shoe. This can easily be prevented and treated by purchasing comfortable, well fitted shoes or even by wearing pads inside your shoes to attain a cushioning between the two.

Warts

Warts are skin growths mainly caused by viruses that need to either be frozen off or burnt. However there are proper clinics and specialist who provide this service. If these are not rid of in time they can spread.