Heel problems are common as the heel bone or calcaneus bone is the largest bone in the foot and is the first to be exposed to the ground while walking. The use of the heel bone in basic movement puts excessive pressure on the bone causing numerous heel related ailments such as heel spurs, heel pain, plantar fasciitis and gout. White spots on the heel could be due to a wide variety of conditions such as pigmentation disorders, corns, calluses or due to fungal infection.
Skin pigmentation disorders such as vitilgo or leucoderma leads to white patches on the skin. Such white patches are caused due to destruction of melanin (skin coloring pigment) or lack of formation of melanin. White spots can spread all over the body or appear in patches over hands, face or body. If the white spots appear to spread; it is advisable to check with a podiatrist or dermatologist. Corns and calluses on the heels caused due to excessive pressure on heels may also begin as white spots. Corn or calluses are areas of thickened skin that usually appear around the heel bone and toes. Pain around the white spots should help you identify the presence of corn or callus. Warts caused by Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), is a benign tumor of the skin that infects the sole of the foot as a single wart or in clusters. Warts can also be mistaken as corn or calluses. A chiropodist can best help you identify the white spots and render appropriate treatment. The heel and the toes are most susceptible to fungal infections such as athelete’s foot. Fungal infections cause the skin to turn red, scaly and also lead to cracks. Fungal infections also cause white and soggy spots on the back of the feet. Heel problems can also be attributed to dietary deficiencies. Lack of omega 3 fatty acids and zinc are known to whiten and harden heels. Deficiency of essential vitamins and minerals can also cause heel problems. Key factors that cause heel problems are age, genetics, nutrition and hormone balance. People suffering from diabetes are also more prone to fungal infections due to high levels of blood sugar.
It is advisable to keep the feet clean and dry at all times. Fungal infections are mainly caused due to moist conditions. Avoid sharing shoes and foot accessories to ensure you do not contract infections from others or spread it to others. Wearing clean and dry socks at all times is also necessary to maintain adequate foot care. Wearing airy shoes or flip flops are ideal foot wear options to avoid foot problems.