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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
National
Matthew Dresch

Brits left with 'lockdown feet' after pandemic - here are warning signs to look out for

Most people have swapped out their smart shoes for slippers and more comfortable footwear during the pandemic.

And while it may be convenient, experts say the lifestyle change has come at a cost as some Brits have developed 'lockdown feet'.

The signs of this condition, officially called plantar fasciitis, are pain in the arch or heel.

Emma McConnachie, spokesman for The College of Podiatry, said it can be caused by wearing floppy slippers or poor quality footwear.

It usually appears in patients aged between 40 and 60, however it has now started to crop up among others.

Speaking about the condition, Ms McConnachie told The Sun : "The ligaments in the foot can stretch out, arches are unsupported and putting on anything with a heel becomes painful.

"If your feet go unsupported, they can start to feel the strain. Wearing floppy slippers all the time eventually takes its toll.

“Many patients are ­struggling with foot issues and are trying to fix the problems themselves.

“They assume we are closed, but podiatrists are very much open and there to help."

Ms McConnachie said there are many other conditions, including arthritis, diabetes and heart disease, that you can pick up on by keeping an eye on your feet.

Brits are suffering pain in the soles of their feet as a result of plantar fasciitis (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Bunions on your toes may be a sign of arthritis, although it is often simply due to genetics.

Meanwhile swollen feet can be a symptom of blood clots, diabetes, heart liver or lung disease.

If you notice unusual swelling you should seek medical help, especially if you have diabetes or other underlying health conditions.

Calluses, corns and scaly skin can also be signs of diabetes, whereas cold feet may suggest poor circulation or Raynaud's syndrome.

Rashes can be an indication of coronavirus with patients often reporting 'Covid toe' as one of their symptoms.

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