Categories: General

How Cancer and Its Treatments can Affect Your Feet

World Cancer Day, observed on 4th February, serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by individuals undergoing cancer treatment. While much attention is rightly focused on life-saving treatments and recovery, it’s important not to overlook the impact of cancer and its therapies on the feet. As specialists in foot health, Dulwich Podiatry is here to shed light on how cancer and its treatments can affect your feet and what can be done to maintain comfort and mobility.

The Connection Between Cancer and Foot Health

Cancer itself, as well as the treatments used to combat it, can significantly influence the health of your feet. Common issues include pain, swelling and changes in skin and nail health. These complications can arise from the cancer’s systemic effects, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgical interventions.
Here are some of the most common ways cancer and its treatments can impact your feet:

Peripheral Neuropathy

Chemotherapy, especially treatments involving platinum-based drugs or taxanes, can damage the peripheral nerves. This condition, known as chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), often manifests as tingling, numbness, or burning sensations in the feet. These symptoms can make walking or standing difficult and increase the risk of falls or injuries. Peripheral neuropathy can also put the feet at a higher risk of infection, with further risk of complication from a reduced immune system.

Skin and Nail Changes

Cancer treatments can cause dryness, cracking, or peeling of the skin on the feet. Nails may become discoloured, brittle, or prone to infections. Radiation therapy may exacerbate skin sensitivity, leading to blistering or sores. Such issues not only cause discomfort but also heighten the risk of infections, especially in immunocompromised individuals.

Lymphedema

Cancer surgeries, particularly those involving lymph node removal, can lead to lymphedema, a condition where fluid builds up in the tissues causing swelling in the legs and feet. Lymphedema can be painful and may limit mobility, making it crucial to manage the condition effectively.

Osteoporosis and Bone Pain

Some cancer treatments, such as hormone therapy or corticosteroids, can weaken bones, increasing the risk of fractures. This can affect the feet, especially the small bones that bear the brunt of daily weight and movement. Sudden pain in the foot, can be a sign of a stress fracture.

Foot cancer

Cancers of the feet are rare but can significantly impact mobility, quality of life, and overall health if not diagnosed and treated early. Foot cancers can originate in the skin, soft tissues, or bones and may also result from metastasis of cancers in other parts of the body. Skin cancers, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma, are among the most common types affecting the feet. Melanomas, though rare, are particularly aggressive and can develop on the soles, under the toenails, or around the nail bed, often appearing as irregularly shaped or darkly pigmented lesions.

Soft tissue cancers, such as sarcomas, can develop in the muscles, fat, or connective tissues of the foot. These may present as painful or painless lumps that gradually enlarge and disrupt normal foot function. Bone cancers, like osteosarcoma, are uncommon but can occur in the bones of the feet, causing localized pain, swelling, or fractures with minimal trauma.

Early detection is critical, as foot cancers can be mistaken for benign conditions like warts, fungal infections, or cysts. Warning signs include non-healing sores, changes in the appearance of moles, persistent swelling, or unusual pain.

How Dulwich Podiatry Can Help

Managing foot health during and after cancer treatment is essential for maintaining quality of life. At Dulwich Podiatry, we offer comprehensive care tailored to the unique needs of individuals dealing with cancer and its effects. Here’s how we can help:

Regular Monitoring: We assess your feet for early signs of neuropathy, skin changes, or infections, ensuring timely interventions.
Specialist Footwear and Orthotics: Custom footwear and insoles can alleviate pressure and improve mobility, particularly for those with neuropathy or bone pain.
Skin and Nail Care: We provide gentle treatments for skin and nail issues, helping to reduce discomfort and prevent complications.
Lymphedema Support: Compression therapy and advice on elevating the feet can help manage swelling effectively.

Practical Tips for Home Care

Moisturise daily to prevent dryness and cracking.
Wear well-fitting shoes to avoid pressure points and blisters.
Inspect your feet regularly for cuts, swelling, or unusual changes.
Seek professional care promptly if you notice any concerning symptoms.

At Dulwich Podiatry, we understand that cancer treatment is a challenging journey, and we’re committed to supporting you every step of the way. If you or a loved one are experiencing foot issues related to cancer, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for expert care and compassionate support. Likewise, call us if you are concerned about any suspicious skin or nail changes.