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Thyroid Related Foot Pain: Learn the Warning Signs

What does your thyroid have to do with foot pain? And what even is your thyroid? Well, your thyroid is a small gland in your neck. Shaped like a butterfly, it helps regulate your metabolism. But when it’s not working well, you’ll experience many different symptoms. And some of them can affect your feet. So, how can you detect thyroid foot pain? Let’s dive in together and find out!

Thyroid Foot Pain Symptoms two bare feet touching

Some of the more common symptoms of a thyroid disorder include changes in your energy, weight or mood. But changes in your foot health could also be a sign your thyroid isn’t in top shape. So, what do thyroid-related foot symptoms look like?

First, joint pain in your feet could mean arthritis. But it also be a sign of an over or underactive thyroid. (Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, respectively.) Also, with hypothyroidism, the skin on your feet can turn dry and coarse. (Studies suggest that this is because an underactive gland produces less oil and sweat. And you need both to maintain moisture in your feet.) Without care for your skin (and your thyroid) this symptom can leave you with deep heel cracks. Bleeding and infections could also become a problem.

Another sign of thyroid foot pain? Feet that are always cold, since changes in thyroid function impact your circulation. And, when your extremities don’t get enough blood, they can feel cold all year round. But especially when the temperature drops. Finally, while many conditions cause foot and leg swelling, this is also a symptom of thyroid disorders.

Thyroid Foot Pain: Other Warning Signs

In some cases, changes in thyroid function can leave you with foot cramps, stinky feet or even changes in your toenail appearance. Now, here’s the tricky part. Any of these symptoms could mean you’ve got a thyroid problem. But they could also result from a number of other health concerns.

So, how can you protect your feet and get the right diagnosis and treatment? First, always choose your footwear wisely. Look for supportive styles with lots of arch support. And plenty of room in the toe box to prevent cramping or gripping. Then, pay close attention to your foot symptoms. Schedule an appointment with our podiatrists in Spring and Tomball, TX at the first sign of foot pain. This is the best way to prevent more serious foot complications. Plus, it could help you detect a more serious, underlying health condition that’s hiding behind your foot pain!