How your feet feel can be a reflection of your general health. If they hurt, they may be signaling other more serious conditions. That's why it is so important to be alert to warning signs. They may be your first indication of serious medical problems such as arthritis, diabetes, nerve and circulatory disorders, and other conditions.

Arthritis

Arthritis, the number one crippling disease in the United States, affects one of seven of us, no matter how old we are. If you have pain in the joints of your feet, which persists or intensifies over time, you should see your doctor. The Center for Podiatric Information suggests visiting your family physician, internist, rheumatologist, orthopedist, or podiatrist when you have pain in the joints of your feet. They note, "When the joints of the feet are involved, medication, physical therapy, exercise, control of foot function with orthoses (foot appliances), braces, special shoes, and surgery are among the treatment tools used to relieve pain and restore them to as near normal function as possible."

Diabetes

Whatever your age, if you have diabetes or are at risk for diabetes, you need to pay special attention to your feet. The American Podiatric Medical Association warns that diabetes can impair circulation and nerve sensations in the feet, greatly increasing the risk of injuries and their ability to heal. Pay attention to symptoms such as tingling, numbness, and pain in the lower legs. They may be symptoms of diabetes or other conditions.

Gout

If you are a male over 30 (especially if you have a family history of gout), an acute attack of pain in the joints, often in the big toe, may be a sign of major problem. You are most susceptible to gout. Left untreated, the pain could last from a few days to over a week. Gout is a complex disease of uncertain origin, caused by high levels of uric acid in the blood. Because of all the debilitating complications, it is important to seek prompt medical care if gout is suspected.

Obesity

Since feet support a person's entire body weight, and are prone to wear and tear, obese people are more prone to suffer from foot problems. When you're walking, the pressure on your feet can exceed your body weight. When you're running, pressure can be four times your weight. If you are obese, be sure to discuss any foot problems and discomfort with your doctor.

Other

Conditions of the feet may also signify other problems including rheumatic fever, circulatory problems, and nerve disorders. Although many people take problems of the feet for granted, ignoring those problems is like ignoring any other health problem. Seek medical attention for pain and problems with your feet, as you would for any other condition.