Foot Care Tips for Men

At Goldsmith Podiatry, it’s an excellent time for us to focus on the foot care needs of our male Manhattan patients. Studies have noted some differences in the way men and women approach health care. In general, men tend to wait longer before seeking medical attention for a problem. They are also more likely to cancel doctor’s appointments and miss annual screenings. A proactive approach is the best way to keep your feet and ankles (and the rest of your body) in tip-top shape. Below are some areas of concern we’d like all of our male patients to be aware of:

Gout

The highest number of gout attacks occur in men ages 30-50. Gout is an arthritic condition that happens when there’s too much uric acid in the body, either due to overproduction or the body’s inability to eliminate it promptly. Gout most frequently strikes in the big toe with symptoms that include: severe pain, swelling, inflammation, redness, and decreased range of motion: our podiatrists, Dr. Howard Goldsmith and Dr. Rosanna Troia can work with you to help determine triggers that may be causing gout. Certain foods, medical conditions and surgeries, medications, and being overweight can all be sources of gout flares.

Fungal Infections

Athlete’s foot, fungal toenails, and other common foot infections can be highly uncomfortable, and they can spread to other parts of your body and other people. The best way to prevent them is by keeping your feet clean and dry and avoiding coming in contact with the fungi. Wear shower shoes or flip-flops at the gym, community pools, and beach restrooms. Change your socks if you notice they feel damp, and alternate your shoes to allow each pair to air out for a day in between wearing them.

Hidden Diseases

You may not be aware, but many diseases that affect your whole body can first show signs in your feet. Hair loss on your lower legs and feet, skin that turns bluish or white, swelling, and other unusual symptoms may signal the beginning of diabetes, high blood pressure, or kidney disease. Get in the habit of examining your feet periodically and report anything usual to the foot doctor.

Sports Injuries

Wear the appropriate shoes for the sport you play. Always warm up properly before and after a fitness activity. If you believe you’ve injured your foot or ankle, don’t try to continue to play! Follow the RICE—rest, ice, compression, elevation—protocol and make an appointment at our Upper West Side office by calling 212-877-1002 as soon as possible to get it checked out.