Foot Specialists and Information on Foot Surgery

The anatomy of the foot is a delicate and fragile structure. 

Essentially, the foot is structured similarly to the hand, with five metatarsal bones, proximal phalanges, middle phalanges, and distal phalanges. 

The tarsal bones are:

• the talus
• the navicular bone
• the cuneiform bone
• the cuboid bone, and
• the calcaneus

Ligaments, along with the joint capsule, reinforce and stabilize the ankle joint; they are usually the most vulnerable components when the joint is overloaded. 

The structure of the foot arch is of great importance for shock absorption: many ligaments, tendons, and muscles ensure that the sole of the foot is arched upward. This provides cushioning when walking.

The anatomy of the foot, with its bones, ligaments, and joints, is complex @ bilderzwerg /AdobeStock

The most common foot conditions include:

• Skin conditions and 
• Injuries to the internal anatomy

Due to its function, the foot is subjected to significant strain every day.

Ill-fitting shoes often cause friction and chafing. As a result, the skin in some areas becomes weakened and more susceptible to viruses, bacteria, and germs.

However, improper foot care can also lead to foot conditions.

Internal injuries to the anatomical structures of the foot and ankle are often caused by overexertion or accidents. 

For example, torn ligaments in the ankle and injuries to the Achilles tendon are among the most common sports injuries.

But even in everyday life, a momentary lapse in attention is often enough to cause a person to stumble and injure their foot.

Congenital or acquired deformities of the feet and toes, as well as inflammation in the ankle joint, also warrant a visit to a podiatrist. 

Most foot conditions, however, are relatively easy to treat and heal quickly.

The most common skin conditions affecting the foot are:

• Corns and painful calluses
• Warts, e.g., plantar warts
• Athlete’s foot or nail fungus
• Nail bed inflammation or ingrown toenails
• Hyperhidrosis pedis (“sweaty feet”)

Athlete's foot usually occurs between the toes @ Alessandro Grandini /AdobeStock

The most common foot injuries and foot conditions are: 

• Toe deformities such as hallux valgus, hallux rigidus, hammertoe, and claw toe
• Foot deformities such as flat feet, pes planus, splayfoot, fallen arches, and high arches
• Ankle ligament tears
• Ankle fractures
• Metatarsal fractures
• Heel spur
• Bunionette
• Bursitis of the heel
• Plantar fasciitis
• Freiberg-Köhler disease
• Sesamoiditis
• Syndactyly
• Toe shortening, lengthening, narrowing, and enlargement
• Metatarsalgia
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome
• Ledderhose disease
• Ganglion and Morton's neuralgia

A heel spur is a small, spine-like bony growth on the heel, measuring just a few millimeters @ DimaBerlin /AdobeStock

When it comes to skin conditions affecting the foot, it’s best to see a dermatologist. For minor issues, a visit to a podiatrist is often helpful. 

These trained foot care specialists know exactly what to look for when it comes to skin and nails. You can expect valuable advice from them. Proper foot care is especially important for older adults, as their feet are often no longer as resilient. 

When it comes to the internal structures, foot surgeons, ankle surgeons, and orthopedic surgeons are usually the right people to consult. 

They can determine the cause of pain and functional limitations and suggest appropriate treatment methods. 

Misalignments can be treated with orthotics, such as insoles. In exceptional cases, however, you may need surgery. 

Physical therapists are also important, especially as part of rehabilitation following injuries or in cases of chronic conditions. Through physical therapy, they help you keep your feet healthy in the long term.