Your Podiatrist Can Treat Men’s Foot Problems

Have you heard over the years that men have a tendency to underestimate the seriousness of their symptoms and procrastinate a visit to the doctor? Studies show this to be true. Statistics show that men are more likely than women to live with discomfort or to experience complications of an illness that could have been caught and treated early. Unfortunately, this is also the case when it comes to men’s foot health, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Many situations can be resolved easily and painlessly with a visit to a podiatrist. Your podiatrist is a medical specialist with years of training and experience, and is skilled in diagnosing and treating all issues related to your feet, ankles, and lower legs.

There are some foot-related issues that are more likely to affect men than women:

• Fungal infections: Typically, men wear – and sweat in! – the same pair of shoes day after day. This creates a hospitable environment for bacteria and opportunistic viruses and fungi. Athlete’s foot, fungal toenail infections, and bromodosis (uncontrolled odor) can become problematic.
• Ingrown toenails: Whereas the ladies might indulge in an occasional pedicure, men tend to trim their own toenails, and often do it improperly. Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM recommends that you use a clipper made just for the job and to trim straight across. Don’t round the corners as you might on your fingers.
• Foot pain from arthritis: Before the age of 55, more men than women develop arthritis, a painful and chronic inflammation of the joints. When you know that there are 26 bones in each of your feet and that they come together in 33 joints, it makes sense that the feet are particularly vulnerable to arthritis.

The best way for men to keep feet healthy and feeling good is with regular visits to a board-certified podiatrist like Dr. Stavros O. Alexopoulos. Schedule a visit in our modern, comfortable Chicago office today. Call our office at (773) 561-8100 or click here to get started.