Podoconiosis is a common and geochemical form of lymphedema that affects the feet. It causes swelling in the toes and feet and higher parts of the leg and is only common in certain parts of the world, including South Africa. It is most common in areas of poverty or where healthcare is not readily available.
The reason podoconiosis is more common in these areas is that it is caused by long-term exposure of the feet to soil, particularly red volcanic soil. In other words, it happens when people have to walk around barefoot for long periods of time, usually most of their lives.
Podoconiosis is a chronic condition that can be very debilitating, depending on how severe your case is. It typically does not start until the age of 20 to 25, but can start much earlier, as well. Once you get podoconiosis, there is no way to permanently cure it, unless you opt for surgery. However, there will be periods when your podoconiosis flares up and is worse than at others.
While there is no non-surgical cure for podoconiosis, there are treatments that can help with the symptoms it causes. You can also take preventative measures to ensure you do not get podoconiosis.
The most serious and obvious symptom of podoconiosis is lymphedema, that is swelling in the legs, feet, and toes. It is important to reduce swelling as quickly as possible. The best way to do that is through compression bandaging, which is where you tightly wrap the swollen area in a bandage. Compression bandaging forces the liquid in the area to flatten out, thereby reducing swelling.
It is also helpful to elevate the swollen part of the leg so that it is above the heart. The best way to do this is by lying on the floor and propping your foot on a stool or lying in bed and stacking pillows or other objects so your leg is higher than the heart. Elevation helps liquid flow away from the swollen area and increases blood flow.
When you cannot apply enough or the proper pressure on your own with compression bandaging, you may need manual decompressive therapy. A physical therapist performs manual decompressive therapy. They use manual manipulations and apply pressure to certain parts of the leg to reduce swelling. Your physical therapist may also apply a decompression bandage or wrap to keep the swelling from recurring in the near future.
In cases of serious lymphedema and swelling, surgery might be necessary. Surgery is performed when a patient has especially large nodules or pockets of liquid that cannot be repaired with elevation and compression. Because surgery presents the risk of infection to the surgical site, it is often used as a last resort and must be performed at a sanitary medical facility.
The good news about podoconiosis is that it is almost always avoidable when you practice proper foot hygiene. The key is to always wear shoes when you are around red volcanic soil or areas known to cause podoconiosis. If wearing shoes is not an option, avoiding dangerous areas at all costs is important. You should also regularly wash and clean your feet if you live in an area with podoconiosis outbreaks.
Podoconiosis is a debilitating and frightening condition that can cause permanent damage and limitations. As such, wearing shoes and practicing proper foot hygiene is essential if you live in an area where podoconiosis is a problem. You should also see a doctor immediately if you suspect that you have podoconiosis so that they can prescribe the proper treatment.