American men and women enjoy social and political equality, but that doesn’t mean they share the same physiology. Although the bodies of men and women are primarily the same, biological and environmental differences lead to different health issues, even in the feet and ankles. Here are some examples:
- Women are more likely than men to indulge in spa pedicures. Pedicures are an affordable luxury, but one that leaves you vulnerable to plantar warts and fungal toenail infections. Be sure to observe excellent hygiene practices at your preferred salon, including disposable basin liners and sterilized instruments. The best way to stay safe is to invest in your own pedicure tools and bring them with you to each visit.
- Several issues with feet and ankles are the result of women’s fashion and its insistence on high-heeled shoes with cramped, narrow toe boxes. These shoes create an unnatural load on the ball of the foot. They can lead to falls resulting in foot and ankle injuries and are believed to contribute to foot deformities including bunions, hammertoes, and Haglund’s deformity (a bony protrusion at the back of the ankle called known informally as “pump bump”).
- Women are more likely to develop arthritis than men are. With 26 bones and 33 joints in each, the feet are particularly at risk of this painful illness that can make daily activities challenging.
- Plantar fasciitis is also more common in women than in men. This uncomfortable inflammation of soft tissue along the bottom of the foot is characterized by heel pain, particularly first thing in the morning. This condition is often treated with custom orthotics for cushioning and support.
The best way for women (or men) to protect the health of their feet, ankles, and lower legs is with regular visits to a podiatrist. With years of specialized education and experience, a foot doctor like Dr. Stavros O. Alexopoulos is the best-qualified medical professional to diagnose and treat all illnesses and injuries of this part of your body. Schedule a convenient appointment in our modern, comfortable Chicago office today. Call our friendly staff at (773) 561-8100 or click here to get started.