What Your Feet Can Tell You About Your Health

When was the last time you really thought about your feet? 

We rely on them every single day, they carry us from place to place, absorb impact, support our posture, and balance our entire body weight. Yet, despite their importance, we often ignore them unless something starts to hurt. 

At Willaston Physio, we believe your feet can reveal a great deal about your general health and movement patterns. Foot pain, changes in shape or colour, or even how you walk (your gait) can all be early warning signs of wider health issues. Paying attention to what your feet are telling you can help you stay active, avoid injury, and improve your quality of life. 

The Foundation of Your Body 

Your feet are the foundation of your musculoskeletal system. Each foot is made up of 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Small changes in how your feet function can have ripple effects throughout your body, contributing to knee pain, hip dysfunction, back problems, and even headaches. 

That’s why addressing foot health isn’t just about comfort, it’s about your overall mobility and wellbeing. 

Common Foot Red Flags 

Here are a few foot-related signs that may indicate an underlying issue: 

1. Persistent Pain or Discomfort 

If you’re experiencing regular pain in your heel, arch, or toes, it could point to conditions like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, arthritis, or tendonitis. Pain that alters the way you walk may lead to imbalances in your knees, hips or spine. 

2. Swelling or Puffiness 

Occasional swelling after a long day is normal, but chronic swelling can suggest circulatory issues, inflammation, or even problems with your kidneys or heart. It’s worth getting checked out. 

3. Changes in Colour or Temperature 

Cold feet or discolouration (such as blue, purple, or very pale skin) might indicate poor circulation or nerve issues, particularly in people with diabetes or vascular problems. 

4. Numbness or Tingling 

These symptoms may be related to nerve compression or neuropathy. They’re common in diabetic patients but can also be linked to spinal issues or vitamin deficiencies. 

5. Skin and Nail Changes 

Thickened, discoloured toenails, dry or cracked skin, and sores that don’t heal could all point to fungal infections, circulation issues, or autoimmune conditions. 

How Physiotherapy Can Help with Foot-Related Issues 

Whether you're experiencing discomfort or just want to optimise your movement, our team at Willaston Physio is here to help. We treat a range of foot-related issues, including: 

• Plantar fasciitis 

• Achilles tendonitis 

• Morton’s neuroma 

• Flat feet and fallen arches 

• Post-surgery rehab (e.g. bunion surgery or foot fracture recovery) 

• Gait retraining and balance support for older adults 

  
  

Your treatment plan may include manual therapy, exercise rehabilitation, soft tissue work, and orthotic advice, all tailored to your goals and lifestyle. 

Gait and Posture 

The way you walk, your gait, tells us a lot about how your body moves as a whole. Even subtle abnormalities in your foot strike or stride pattern can cause overuse injuries or contribute to ongoing joint pain. 

At Willaston Physio, we offer advanced 3D Gait Analysis using RS Foot scan technology, a leading system that provides detailed insight into how your feet move under pressure.  

This assessment captures data such as: 

• Pressure distribution when walking or running 

• Imbalances between the left and right foot 

• Timings and load patterns during your gait cycle 

• Areas of high stress that may lead to injury 

  
  

Using this information, we can help correct imbalances, reduce pain, and improve how you move from the ground up. 

Custom Orthotics 

If your gait assessment reveals issues such as overpronation (foot rolling inward) or supination (rolling outward), custom orthotics may be the solution. 

We offer Phits 3D-printed orthotics, designed using real-time gait data from your scan. These tailored insoles support your feet where you need it most, helping to: 

• Improve your posture and alignment 

• Distribute pressure more evenly 

• Reduce strain on knees, hips and lower back 

• Enhance athletic performance and prevent injuries 

Unlike off-the-shelf insoles, Phits orthotics are fully customised to your foot shape and movement, offering long-term support and comfort. 

Foot Health Tips You Can Start Today 

Taking better care of your feet doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few simple habits that can go a long way: 

• Stretch and strengthen your feet regularly (try toe scrunches, heel raises, and calf stretches) 

• Check your shoes, make sure they fit well and provide appropriate arch support 

• Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces for prolonged periods 

• Moisturise and check for skin issues, especially if you have diabetes 

• Warm up gradually before exercise and allow time for recovery 

When to See a Physiotherapist About Foot Pain 

Don’t wait for minor niggles to become chronic issues. If you’re dealing with: 

• Foot or ankle pain lasting more than a few days 

• Changes in your walking pattern or posture 

• Recurring injuries or joint stiffness 

• Difficulty standing, running, or maintaining balance 

  ...it’s time to book in with a physiotherapist. 

Book your Gait Analysis or Physiotherapy Assessment online today or call our friendly reception team for more information.