Condition : Foot conditions

Condition Foot conditions

What are foot conditions?

There is a variety of problems that can affect feet, and they can each have a big impact on quality of life, independence, and overall health, due to pain, mobility issues, and resulting inactivity.

Common foot problems include:

athlete’s foot (a fungal infection that causes itching and skin problems)
blisters (fluid-filled pockets on the skin)
bunions (when the big toe moves towards the second toe at an angle)
corns and callus (thickened, hardened skin)
fungal nail infection (brittle, discoloured, or thicker toenail
heel and arch pain, known as plantar fasciitis
ingrown toenail (part of a nail pierces the flesh)
pain at the ball of the foot, known as metatarsalgia
sprains and strains (soft tissue injury)
sweaty feet
various types of arthritis, including gout, rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis
verrucas (small growths on the skin that are painful when pinched)

What causes foot conditions?

There is no single cause for many foot problems. Some problems are due to injury or infection, while others are congenital (you’re born with them) or may be linked to ageing. Being overweight can put you at risk of some foot conditions.

Checking your feet regularly and wearing low-heeled, well-fitting footwear will help prevent several foot conditions.

Diabetes

Taking care of your feet is particularly important if you have diabetes, as high blood sugar can cause damage to blood vessels that results in reduced blood flow. Poor blood flow means you’re more likely to get problems with your feet, and when you do it can take longer to heal.

Complications, such as nerve damage, are also more common if you have diabetes, and can put you at risk of amputation.

Next steps

Pharmacists can help with a range of foot conditions by advising you about painkillers, insoles and pads for your shoes, and treatments for common skin and nail problems.

They will advise you if you need to see a GP.

At your GP appointment, they will ask you some questions and look at your foot. You may be given a prescription or advice to manage or resolve the condition, and they may refer you to a specialist, such as a podiatrist, if they think further support is needed.

Step 1. Check out our advice

Browse our advice and resources to learn more about your condition and ways to manage it.

Step 2. Contact a Healthcare Professional

If you need further support or have concerns, a Healthcare Professional is here to help. Reach out for professional medical advice tailored to you.

Step 3. View our services

Discover services and support options available to help you with your health and wellbeing.

Managing your health

We've created health advice and resources to help you confidently manage health conditions at home. Browse our expert guidance on self-care - tailored to your specific needs - and practical support to start seeing the benefits to your wellbeing and independence.