LeBron James, widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players in history, does have certain limitations that come with his immense achievements.

Although he has been a dominant force in the NBA for over 21 seasons and has won four league MVPs, James recently got attention when an old photo of his “gnarly” foot became widely shared and caused a frenzy on social media.

Ever since he graced the cover of Sports Illustrated in 2002 as an 18-year-old high school senior, the now 39-year-old NBA icon has amassed a plethora of indelible experiences in the world of basketball.

Opting out of college, he participated in the 2003 NBA draft and was selected as the top pick in what is widely regarded as one of the most exceptional drafts in the history of the game.

James surpassed future Hall of Famers Chris Bosh, Carmelo Anthony, Dwyane Wade, and other All-Stars, including Kyler Korver and Chris Kaman, in terms of performance.

The years of playing his feet have taken a toll, though, and that dominance and success have come at a cost.

This week, a photo of James on vacation from years ago became viral online. It featured his toes grouped together, with some pointing in different directions from the others.

Reactions to one of the league’s superstars’ feet swamped social media.

This admirer declared, “That’s what years of standing on business looks like.”

“Observe this, children. That’s what it takes to be great,” said someone else.

A third person made the joke, “It looks like he lost his pinky toe in some accident and then just glued it back on sideways.”

“The cost of being exceptional. Even if we enjoy the game, players must endure physically taxing demands to succeed. Savor their play while it lasts, said a fourth.

Following the Lakers’ victory, live TV watchers noticed that LeBron James was “pressuring the Lakers” by donning a Knicks towel. 

 James suffered a foot injury last season that required him to miss time; in an interview with The U.S. Sun, a podiatrist indicated that James probably spends a lot of money on foot care.

In general, I would estimate that LeBron spends about $7,000 a month on orthotics, custom sneakers, and podiatric treatment for his feet.

“LeBron also has a complicated left foot, so in order to get the calluses removed and avoid ulcers, he would need to have surgery.”

“On top of that, he needs to undergo rehabilitation for his right foot. That’s a substantial expense, totaling $84,000 annually.

James has had a successful career despite the difficulties; he has four NBA titles under his belt and is hoping to win five more this season with the Los Angeles Lakers.

Not only that, but he leads the NBA in scoring all-time.