Feet are probably the most neglected part of the human body. Think about it, how many times have you thought about your feet? Have you really considered how important your feet are when they are working so hard to support your body and take you wherever you need to go? Follow the following simple steps to ensure your feet are in check and given the love they deserve.
Keep your feet clean and dry
Practice good hygiene by washing your feet daily and drying well in between the toes. Increased moisture to the foot can increase the risk of fungal infections. If your feet sweat a lot, wear moisture wicking socks and breathable shoes.
Moisturizing
Just as it is not good to have overly moist feet, you don’t want to have overly dry feet as well. Your skin is your body’s first and greatest defence against external aggressors, so you want to make sure you’re keeping it in its optimal condition. Protect the integrity of your skin and reinforce its elasticity to combat the pressures and stresses caused by walking or running by applying moisturizer on at least once every day.
Proper Nail Cutting
Your toenails grow about 1 mm in length per month and should be trimmed every couple of months to reduce the risk of damage and trauma. When cutting your toenails, make sure to cut straight across (you can smooth the corners with a file) and not too short to reduce the risk of ingrown toenails. If you have a difficult time reaching your toenails, have vision problems, or are diabetic, book an appointment with a Registered Chiropodist who can help with regular nail care.
Proper Footwear
Your footwear choices have a huge impact on your overall foot health. When purchasing shoes, always consider the activity which you intend to use them to reduce risk of injury. Shoes are typically made with a certain purpose in mind. In addition, try to limit the use of high heels, ballet flats, flip flops, and other shoes that do not offer any support or cushioning. Finally, always buy your shoes according to your foot shape and size. Don’t try to fit a wide foot into a narrow, pointed shoe.
Regular Self Examination
Examine your feet regularly. Check for any changes in the nail, skin (don’t forget in between the toes!), and overall structure of your foot. Look for things like changes in colour, consistency, shape of the nail; thickened, peeling, irritated, itchy skin; flattened arches, splaying of the toes, bunions, digital deformities, etc. In general, the sooner you address an issue, the better the overall outcome.
Periodic visits to a Chiropodist
A Registered Chiropodist is a primary health care professional who specializes in the assessment, management, and prevention of dysfunctions, disorders, and diseases of the foot. Book an appointment with a Chiropodist if you notice any changes to your feet, want to get a general foot assessment, or wish to maintain optimal foot health.