Your feet may not seem like big news in terms of overall health, but they can be important in signaling conditions of concern in other parts of the body. Because feet are located at the farthest extremity of the body and are subjected to repeated stress every time you take a step, they can be the first warning when some body systems are in trouble.

This is especially true for diabetics. Untreated high blood sugar levels can damage or destroy the tiny capillaries that carry blood to nerves and tissues. Neuropathy, the injury or death of the peripheral nerves, causes numbness that can mask the symptoms of damage to the toes and feet until it's too late. Small injuries become large wounds that are resistant to healing because of poor circulation. More than 80,000 lower limb amputations per year are the result of diabetic foot complications. In other parts of the body, the same effect also causes blindness, loss of sensation in the fingers, and kidney damage.

Swelling of the feet can be an indication of circulatory problems. Gravity makes blood tend to pool in the lower limbs; heart weakness, high blood pressure or other cardiovascular difficulties can make it hard to get that blood back up into the body. Besides swelling, other danger signs include changes of color or unfamiliar sensations in the feet, as well as unexplained sores that are reluctant to heal. Smoking, obesity, and poorly-fitting shoes can all add to stress on the feet.

Older people who notice they're suddenly stumbling or tripping frequently may have suffered a mild stroke or other condition affecting the brain's ability to send the proper nerve signals to lift the feet during walking. Nerve damage from back injuries, diabetes or smoking may be involved as well.

Now that you know how important your feet are, here are some tips on how to pay proper attention to them.First, check your feet often. If you notice pain, swelling, redness, sores or cracks in the skin, or nail problems, try to find out more about the symptoms. If the problem persists, tell your doctor. To keep your feet happy, wash them every day with warm water (not too hot). Dry thoroughly, especially between toes; powder can help absorb moisture. Wear comfortable, well-fitted shoes and clean socks; cotton is not recommended, because it can trap moisture and provide a good environment for bacteria and fungi.

SOURCE: St. Louis Post-Dispatch