Top 5 Foot Problems You Shouldn’t Ignore

It’s easy to dismiss foot pain. After all, our feet work hard every day, and a little soreness might seem normal. But persistent discomfort or visible changes can be signs that something more serious is going on. At Ferro Foot & Ankle, we believe in listening to your feet—and treating them with the care they deserve.

Here are five common foot issues you should never ignore:

Heel Pain That Won’t Go Away

If your heel hurts every morning when you get out of bed, you may be dealing with plantar fasciitis. This condition causes inflammation in the thick band of tissue that supports your arch. Left untreated, it can get worse over time and interfere with daily life.

What to watch for:

  • Sharp pain in the heel when standing or walking

  • Pain that improves after moving around, but returns with rest

Early treatment options include stretching, orthotics, and anti-inflammatory medications. And we’re here to help if those don’t bring relief.

Bunions That Are Starting to Hurt

A bunion is more than a bump—it’s a structural deformity of the big toe joint. When ignored, bunions can lead to chronic pain and difficulty walking. They tend to worsen over time, especially with tight or narrow shoes.

What to watch for:

  • A visible bump on the side of your big toe

  • Swelling, redness, or tenderness around the joint

  • Limited movement or shifting of the toe

We offer both conservative and surgical treatment options to relieve pain and restore function.

Tingling or Numbness in Your Feet

These sensations might seem harmless, but they can signal nerve damage or poor circulation—especially concerning if you have diabetes. Ignoring these symptoms could increase your risk for ulcers or infections.

What to watch for:

  • Persistent numbness or burning

  • Feet that feel unusually cold or warm

  • Sores that heal slowly or not at all

Routine foot checks and early intervention are essential, particularly for those with chronic health conditions.

Ingrown Toenails

While they may start small, ingrown toenails can quickly become painful and infected. They occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, often due to improper trimming or tight shoes.

What to watch for:

  • Pain or swelling along the nail edge

  • Redness or signs of infection

  • Difficulty wearing shoes

Timely treatment can prevent complications and provide immediate relief.

5. Unexplained Changes in Skin or Nails

Thickened toenails, dry cracks, discoloration, or strange growths can indicate fungal infections, poor circulation, or even skin cancer. These changes should always be evaluated by a professional.

What to watch for:

  • Yellow, brittle, or thick toenails

  • Persistent dry or cracked skin

  • New spots or moles on your feet

Catching these issues early often means simpler, more effective treatment.

We’re Here to Help—Every Step of the Way

Your feet are foundational to your health and mobility. Don’t wait until the pain becomes unbearable or the problem escalates. If something feels off, we’re here to listen, examine, and guide you toward healing.

Let’s get you back on your feet.

Ferro Foot & Ankle
9403B County Road 403
Charlestown, IN 47111
📞 812-286-2500
🌐 ferrofootandankle.com

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