Don’t neglect your feet! Because while they’re pretty handy for standing on, walking and running, they can also be a huge indicator of your overall health. “As well as carrying out minor surgery, working to prevent amputations and issuing medication such as antibiotics, they can detect a wide range of health problems via signs in your feet. We delve into some of the things your feet might be trying to tell you.”.
Here, McConnachie outlines a few of the health problems that can show up in your feet…. 1. Circulation problems. If you’ve noticed a recent change in your feet and ankles such as pronounced swelling or a mottled colouring, this could be a sign of circulatory issues, explains McConnachie. “Changes may occur in only one limb or in both. If you notice any changes in the size or colour of your feet and ankles, then contact your GP or podiatrist.”.
She says feet will often be cooler over the winter months as the temperature drops, so making sure your feet and legs are insulated with warm clothing will help minimise this. “There are many circulatory conditions which can also cause a change to the temperature of your lower limbs, so if you notice a sudden and prolonged change in the temperature of one or both of your feet and legs, speak to your podiatrist or GP to get the issue checked out,” she advises.
2. Heart disease, diabetes or neurological conditions. Changes in the sensation in your feet, such as tingling or numbness, can be a sign of many different health issues. McConnachie says circulation problems caused by conditions such as heart disease or diabetes, or through heavy smoking or alcohol consumption can cause nerve endings to stop working properly.
