5 Things Your Feet Can Tell You About Your Health

Our feet do the walking, but it looks like they also do a lot of the talking! While your feet may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you’re trying to decipher certain health-related conditions, they’re actually an essential barometer in identifying underlying health issues, oftentimes giving early warnings of potentially serious ailments.

At CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA, we’re experts at helping our patients navigate through a range of warning signs and symptoms that may include:

Pain

Foot pain may not just be a result of wearing the wrong type of shoes. It can also be an early indicator of arthritis, as inflammatory joint diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis can often manifest in the feet.

Circulation Issues

Cold or numb feet can signify issues with blood flow and circulation. Whether you’re finding that your feet are always cold or you’re experiencing a tingling sensation (or both!), your feet may be the first to show symptoms of health issues such as peripheral artery disease (PAD) or even diabetes.

Spoon-Shaped Nails

A condition called Koilonychia refers to soft nails with a spoon-shaped dent and can often be one of the early warning signs and symptoms of an iron or Vitamin C deficiency. Oftentimes, it develops gradually, starting with a flattening of the nail before the dent is formed.

Deformities

Certain foot deformities, such as flat feet or high arches, can be genetic and may offer important insight into potential predispositions for musculoskeletal conditions.

Swelling

Fluid buildup in the foot and ankle area is known as edema and can signify potentially serious, underlying medical conditions and various health issues. Blood clots can cause swelling in the feet and are particularly dangerous because if they break off, they can travel to the lungs, resulting in a pulmonary embolism. Keep in mind that oftentimes, blood clots only occur in one leg, so swelling in just one of your feet can still indicate a potentially serious issue.

Being proactive is key, and Dr. Hubert Lee and his team at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists are ready to help investigate any symptoms you may be experiencing. You can schedule an appointment online or call today at 425-455-0936.