Why do I get calf muscle cramps?
Calf cramps are common and usually harmless, often linked to tired muscles, exercise or age. Cramping pain that comes on with walking and eases with rest is different and needs checking.
What if your nail problem comes from an underlying bone problem?
A small bony growth under the toenail, called a subungual exostosis, can lift and deform the nail and cause pain. An X-ray confirms it, and minor surgery removes it.
Shin splints
Shin splints cause aching along the inner edge of the shin bone, usually from doing too much running or jumping too soon. Rest and a gradual return to sport usually fix it within weeks.
Why is my child so flexible? Hypermobility in children
Many children are very flexible, and most have no problems from it. If flexibility comes with pain, tiredness or frequent sprains, strength work and good shoes can help.
Why is my child getting pain on the outside of their foot? (Iselin's disease)
Pain on the outer edge of the foot in a sporty child can be Iselin's disease, a growth plate problem. It's uncommon but harmless, and it settles with rest, care and time.
Foot posture and back pain
Your feet may play a small part in back pain for some people, but the link is weaker than often claimed. Staying active helps most, and orthoses aren't a proven back pain treatment.
Cerebral palsy and toe walking
Most young children who walk on their toes are healthy and grow out of it. Toe walking with stiff muscles, clumsiness or slow development needs a check, as it can be a sign of cerebral palsy.
Köhler's disease
Köhler's disease is a rare cause of midfoot pain and limping in young children. It gets better on its own, and children almost always grow up with a normal foot.
Rheumatoid arthritis and your feet
Rheumatoid arthritis often starts in the small joints of the feet, and most people with it get foot problems. Good footwear, orthoses and regular podiatry care can ease the pain.
Five common foot problems and what you can do about them
Heel pain, bunions, corns and calluses, fungal nails and ingrown toenails are five of the most common foot problems. Here's what helps at home and what a podiatrist can do.
What is a ganglion?
A ganglion is a harmless fluid-filled lump on a joint or tendon. On the foot it can rub on shoes. Many need no treatment, and some go away on their own.
Ageing skin
As you get older your skin becomes thinner and drier, and your feet lose some of their natural padding. Sun protection, gentle skin care and regular foot checks all help.