High heels often the culprit.

• Position: Foot Maladies

Human feet are amazing, as they contain a quarter of the bones in the body. Each foot has 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 tendons. However, like the rest of the body, feet eventually begin to feel the effects of daily wear and tear. Foot problems are more common in women, particularly with advancing age. Years of frequent high-heel wear can damage tendons in the heel permanently. Shoes that fit too tightly can cause problems, too. The Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn., details common concerns about feet and what might help:

Blisters are caused by the friction of shoes over the skin. They should not be popped. Instead, applying moleskin or a bandage helps. A blister that breaks should be washed, treated with antiseptic ointment, and covered with a bandage.

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Bunions are misaligned big toe joints where the big toe slants toward the second toe. They can become swollen and tender, especially if aggravated by tight shoes. Wearing wider shoes, as well as using cushioning pads or shoe inserts could provide relief. In severe cases, surgery may be needed.

Corns and calluses are thick, hardened layers of skin that develop where the shoe frequently rubs the foot. Moleskin or padding may relieve discomfort. Corns and calluses should not be cut at home; see a podiatrist.

Hammertoe occurs when a toe, often the second, bends like a claw. The condition usually results from a muscle imbalance, but it can be worsened by ill-fitting shoes or hosiery that is too tight. Wide shoes can help. Occasionally, surgery may be needed to realign the toes.

Heel pain is caused by stretching or tearing of the band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot (plantar fascia)...