A podiatrist's perspective during Men's Health Awareness Month 2024
November is Men's Health Awareness Month.
Here at Michelle Reynolds Podiatry we treat and help a lot of men. But they do tend to get to us later than our female patients, once foot problems are more established and chronic. This means it is harder to improve their foot health and get them back on track!
Men's Health Month is a time to raise awareness of health issues specific to men. While we often think of health concerns like heart disease and prostate cancer, it's crucial to remember that even seemingly minor health issues can have serious consequences. One such area that often gets overlooked is foot health.
Why Podiatry Matters for Men
Podiatrists are foot and ankle specialists. We often think of our feet as simple support structures, but they're actually complex systems that deserve regular attention. And while many might think this is a concern primarily for women, the reality is that men are just as susceptible to foot and ankle problems. From athlete's foot which is more common in men, to ingrown toenails, to verrucas and corns, as well as complications related to diabetes or issues with blood flow to the feet, these conditions can significantly impact a man's quality of life. Podiatrists can help with all aspect of foot health, but also play a critical role in early detection of more serious health problems, particularly skin cancer.
The Silent Threat: Melanoma in Men
One of the most serious health issues that podiatrists encounter is skin cancer, particularly melanoma. Unfortunately, men have a tendency to delay seeking medical attention, and this includes podiatry concerns. This delay can be particularly dangerous when it comes to melanoma. Shockingly, men are more likely to present late with melanoma on their feet and ankles, leading to poorer outcomes.
Studies have shown that melanoma of the lower limb is more prevalent in women than in men. However, proportionately, men are more likely to have melanoma on the foot than women (25 percent of melanomas of the lower extremity in men were on the foot versus only 14 percent in women).
Why the Delay?
Several factors contribute to this delay:
Stigma: Men may feel embarrassed or ashamed to seek help for a foot or ankle issue.
Lack of Awareness: Many men may be unaware that melanoma can develop on their feet. We tend to associate skin cancer with sun exposure and burning, our feet are rarely exposed, yet skin cancer including melanoma can still occur on the feet.
Misdiagnosis: Skin cancers are frequently misdiagnosed by patients and professionals and can be confused for example with verrucas, bruises under nails or fungal nail infections
Ignoring Symptoms: Men often tend to ignore symptoms, especially if they're not causing immediate pain.
Stoicism: Unfortunately men are often socialized to be tough and to "man up." This can lead them to ignore pain or discomfort in their feet, hoping it will go away on its own. Luckily this is changing and men are now encouraged to seek help for health concerns sooner rather than later.
Men are less likely to perform skin self-examination than women. And in all genders a new lesion may go undetected on the foot for a longer period of time than it would elsewhere on the body
Melanoma and the feet
Melanoma can develop anywhere on the body, including the feet. In fact, melanomas on the feet can be particularly dangerous because they often go unnoticed or unrecognised. Melanoma on the foot has a worse prognosis than lesions elsewhere on the body. Here are some signs to watch for:
A new mole or spot on the foot
A mole that changes in size, shape, or colour
A new lump or nodule in the skin
A sore that doesn't heal
A lesion that keeps bleeding
A dark streak under a nail
Don't Delay, Seek help!
When was the last time you took a proper look at your feet? Can't remember? Do it now!
If you notice any changes in your skin, including your feet and ankles, don't ignore them. Schedule an appointment with podiatrist. Early detection and treatment are key to successful outcomes.
Please do not be embarrassed - even podiatrists get foot problems. We have honestly seen it all before and would love to be able to help you improve your foot health.
Take Charge of Your Health
This Men's Health Month, make a commitment to your overall health, including your foot and ankle health. Regular check-ups with a podiatrist can help identify and address potential issues early on which makes them much easier to manage.
Here at Michelle Reynolds Podiatry we recommend attending for an annual foot health check even if you don't suspect any problems. We welcome all genders. Podiatry is for everyone. Let's keep you on your feet and active!
Remember, your health is worth it.
To book a consultation call 0161 427 4937 or email info@mrpodiatrist.co.uk