Foot on Diseases

Diagnosis using the foot is similar to that of the hand, al-though it has some of its own specificity. The general inspectionof the foot and big toe are the two important diagnostic methods

discussed as follows:
1. General inspection of foot
This is a diagnostic method to show the functional condition of the body by observing the general appearance of thefoot. The common types of foot are mentioned as follows:

Normal foot:
Shape: The curvature of the dorsum of foot and tips of toes are smooth and full and the toes are soft, elastic, and regualarly arranged. The nails are shiny and transparent and the subungual tissue is bright red in color. The curve of the arch is normal and smooth. The anterior part of instep, lateral border, and heel pad are regular in shape with no abnormal thickening or atrophy. And there is no tinea infection between the toes (Fig. 4-16).

Indication: This indicates the body is health, built proportionally, and vital energy is rich.

2) Solid foot:
Shape: The foot appears thick and solid, the toes are close to each other, and the big toe deviates laterally. The toenails, arch, and plantar pad are normal (Fig. 4-17).

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