The BC Association of Podiatrists says to check your toes for clues to health

Vancouver - When we pull off our woolen socks and winter boots and slip our feet into summer sandals, it's the perfect opportunity to take a good look at what our toes have been trying to tell us all winter. Misshapen nails, spots and moles can indicate anything from an irritating fungal infection to a life-threatening skin cancer.

"Throughout the winter months, our feet are 'out of sight, out of mind'," explains podiatrist Dr. David Brooks. "But the condition of our feet can reveal important clues to our general health. Even our exposed toes can tell us so much."

Here are some symptoms to look for:

Yellow or misshapen toenails
Toenails can become misshapen or discoloured for a number of reasons. If your nails are pitted, thickened, flaky and/or yellowed, it could indicate a fungal infection, but it could also be due to psoriasis eczema, or other skin diseases that can affect the nails. A podiatrist can confirm the presence of nail fungus with a lab test.

Spots on the toenails or skin of the foot
Dark spots anywhere on the foot or changes in the toenail could indicate a skin cancer such as malignant melanoma. "People forget to look at their feet, especially their toenails, when checking for suspicious moles," says Dr. Brooks. Because spots on the feet or toenails are often misdiagnosed or overlooked, the survival rate for malignant melanoma of the foot is only 56 per cent, compared to an 85 per cent survival rate for skin cancers on other parts of body. Dr. Brooks recommends that suspicious spots on the feet or toenails be biopsied.

Scaly skin and rashes
Scaly, flaking skin or rashes between the toes or on the sole of the foot can indicated a fungal infection, but these symptoms can also be one of the first signs of diabetes. People with diabetes often experience dehydration that can cause dry skin on their legs, feet and elbows. A podiatrist can perform a lab test to confirm the presence of a fungal skin infection.

Don't hide your feet away in winter shoes for another season without taking a good look at those toes poking out of your sandals during the summer months. "The bottom line is, if you notice a change in your feet, see a podiatrist," says Dr. Brooks. "A podiatrist can test or biopsy your skin or toe nails if necessary to make the right diagnosis."

Podiatrists are doctors who specialize in preventing, diagnosing and treating foot pain and foot disorders both medically and surgically. Patients do not need a referral from their family doctor to see a podiatrist. For the location of a podiatrist near you, call 1-866-611-FEET (3338) or visit www.foothealth.ca. -30-

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For more information or to arrange an interview, contact Hayden Jackson at 604-623-3007