March 28, 2024
Wondering about top foot moisturizing tips and dry skin remedies? Look no further! Skin-related issues are common at Feet First Clinic, so we know a thing or two about the secrets behind soft feet! Keep reading to master our step-by-step guide on the perfect hydrated skin care routine for your feet. Foot Moisturizing Tips: A Step-by-Step Guide Numerous studies support the use of high-quality moisturizing creams on the feet to fight xerosis (the medical term for dry skin). Dry skin acts as a foundation for common foot problems, like pain and soreness, bleeding, cracked heels, peeling skin, and more, so moisturization not only makes your feet feel smooth to the touch, but it also gives you protection against future troubles. Moisturizing can also help you manage more serious concerns, like diabetes and psoriatic arthritis. Below are the steps you should follow to guarantee you are lathering your feet up the right way: Step 1: Get the right products Step 2: Cleanse and exfoliate your feet Step 3: Moisturize your feet Step 4: Protect and maintain Step 1: Get the Right Products For the best results, choose medicinal moisturizing creams from brands like Gehwol. These focus on hydration, are fragrance-free and made without harsh chemicals. Their Soft Feet Cream contains urea (which absorbs moisture and softens skin) and glycerin (which relieves dryness and retains moisture). It also contains soothing and pleasant ingredients like avocado oil and honey extract. Their Med Salve for Cracked Skin may be the best bet for a more aggressive moisturizing treatment. Due to it being a salve and not a cream, it is specially designed to penetrate the skin more thoroughly. Likewise, in addition to being a good choice for people prone to cracked heels, it is suitable for diabetics. Another good option is the deep penetrating heel care cream from Dermal Therapy. Step 2: Cleanse and Exfoliate Your Feet Before moisturizing comes foot hygiene! You should always start with a clean base. Clean your feet in warm water with fragrance-free, gentle soaps, and thoroughly dry, especially in between the toes (vulnerable area for fungal infections). To go the extra mile, exfoliate your feet with a scrub product and finish off with a foot file on the bottom of the feet. This eliminates dead skin cells, making your moisturizer more effective! Step 3: Moisturize Your Feet Moisturizing itself is pretty simple. Use a generous dollop (but not too much) of moisturizer and focus on dry areas, if you have any. Massage the moisturizer into your feet using circular motions, ensuring full coverage. Avoid the area in between the toes if you’re prone to infections or wounds (if you have diabetes). Moisture can build in the between the toes more easily than other areas. Step 4: Protect and Maintain Repeat this process regularly, ideally daily or at least a few times a week, to keep your feet soft, smooth, and well-hydrated. If your skin is especially vulnerable and sensitive, like for those with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, a regular routine is extra important to help you manage painful flar- ups.
March 21, 2024
Foot hygiene and solid foot care tips are your secret weapons for happy and healthy feet! Everyone should practice a clean and healthy foot routine, but those with foot conditions such as diabetes or chronic fungal infections should be extra vigilant. Today we’ll talk about the best foot cleaning practices and how to implement them into your daily foot care routine. Foot Health Essentials: How to Keep Your Feet Clean and Protected Foot hygiene is pretty straightforward stuff! But you may make some minor missteps along the way. Take a look below at the best ways to wash, dry and moisturize your feet. Washing Your Feet Wash your feet daily with natural, gentle soaps in warm water. Hot water can negatively impact your blood circulation by increasing the size of the blood vessels, so be careful with temperatures. Moisturizing Your Feet Use lotion on the bottom and top of your feet. This can help you prevent calluses, corns, cracked heels, and more. Natural, fragrance-free and medicinal lotions are your best bet (try Gehwol at Feet First Clinic!). If you have diabetes, be extra careful to avoid putting lotion in between your toes; it could cause an infection depending on the lotion. Fungal infections also favour wet toes and tend to appear there. Keeping Your Feet Dry Thoroughly dry your feet after washing them. If you get lazy and keep them damp, you are again more likely to attract contagious fungal infections (they love moist environments!). Invest in products that help manage foot dampness and repel excess moisture. These include moisture-wicking socks (also remember to change your sock frequently!), waterproof shoes and boots, running shoes with perforated holes in the uppers, and various foot deodorant products (creams, powders, sprays). These products are also great for preventing foot odour. Toenail Care and Foot Hygiene Keeping your nails in top shape is an important element of foot hygiene. Follow these nail care tips to protect your nails and keep them clean and strong. Cut your nails straight across with high-quality nail clippers. Don’t try to shape them during this stage! Avoid cutting your nails too close to the skin; this will cause ingrown toenails. Gently use a nail file for subtle shaping. Don’t try to cut your own cuticles if you’re prone to infections. They protect the nails and getting rid of them improperly may welcome fungi. Schedule a medical pedicure for professional care and a cleaning of hard-to-reach areas.
February 8, 2024
As the golden years unfold, maintaining an active and pain-free lifestyle should be a priority for seniors. One often overlooked aspect of overall well-being is foot health. Our feet, the unsung heroes of a lifetime of steps, require special attention to ensure comfort and mobility. This article delves into practical foot care tips for seniors, empowering you to stride into each day pain-free and with a zest for life. Choose supportive footwear The foundation of pain-free feet lies in the shoes we wear. Opt for supportive footwear with cushioning, proper arch support, and a comfortable fit. Also consider wearing supportive footwear indoors to provide support and protect against slips and falls on slippery surfaces. Read our complete guide to senior foot care in this blog post. Regular foot inspections Make it a habit to inspect your feet regularly. Look for any changes in colour, swelling, or unusual growth. Recognizing early signs of issues can prevent more significant problems, ensuring your feet remain a source of strength - not pain. Gentle foot exercises Keep those joints and muscles limber with gentle foot exercises. To do this, add lower leg exercises to your daily routine to maintain and improve mobility. Exercises like ankle circles, toe flexes, and heel lifts can improve flexibility and strength, promoting pain-free movement. Moisturize and combat dry skin Seniors often contend with drier skin, leading to cracks and discomfort. Combat this by moisturizing your feet regularly, paying particular attention to the heels and soles; Well-hydrated skin is more resilient and less prone to issues. You may also consider regular foot care appointments with a chiropodist, who specialize in senior foot care. Elevate your feet to reduce swelling After a day of activity, give your feet a break. Elevate them when resting to reduce swelling and promote healthy blood circulation. This simple practice can significantly affect how your feet feel after a busy day. Address foot pain promptly Don't ignore foot pain or discomfort. Consult with a chiropodist or healthcare professional to address any issues promptly. Early addressing can help combat the development of chronic conditions and ensure that your feet remain pain-free. Consider an annual foot assessment for a comprehensive check-up on the health of your feet. Studies show that physical examination of the feet as part of the routine assessment of older adults is imperative to detect foot problems. A foot assessment includes: Circulation and blood flow to your feet Neurological status Changes or concerns with the skin and toenails Your foot type (i.e., flat feet, normal arches or high arches) Biomechanical abnormalities (i.e. limited or excessive range of motion in joints, areas of pain, overpronation, etc.) Low-impact exercises for overall health Staying active is vital to a vibrant lifestyle. Engage in low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or tai chi to promote cardiovascular health without putting excessive strain on your feet and joints. Custom orthopedic inserts Enhance comfort and support by considering custom orthopedic inserts for your shoes. These inserts provide additional cushioning and support for your arches, reducing the risk of foot-related discomfort. Prioritize circulation Good circulation - the rate at which your blood flows to and from various body parts - is vital for overall foot health. Avoid prolonged periods of sitting or standing, and consider simple exercises to promote blood circulation. Compression stockings can also benefit you by improving your blood circulation. Your feet will thank you for the improved oxygen and nutrient supply. Maintain a holistic approach to health Remember that foot health is interconnected with your overall well-being. Maintain a balanced diet, manage your weight, and stay hydrated. A healthy lifestyle reflects positively on your feet and contributes to your ability to stay active.
January 8, 2024
Here’s a scenario: you’re in a room with friends or family, and all of a sudden, you notice someone’s feet aren’t smelling too fresh. Could it be you? And if yes, what could be causing this? While foot odour can be an embarrassing revelation, you can tackle smelly feet by paying attention to your foot hygiene. And if your foot odour presents a more complex challenge, there are additional measures you can take to address the issue. Causes of Smelly Feet Most of the time, foot odour is the result of forgetting foot hygiene and keeping your feet cooped up in socks and shoes all day while working, exercising or walking for long periods. This will lead to a build up of sweat and bacteria. This is actually good news, because it means you can take steps towards preventing foot odour without additional treatments. That said, in some cases, foot odour is more perplexing, and may be connected to the following conditions or risk factors: Fungal infections like athlete’s foot. Bacteria can feed on the dry, flaky skin that accumulates, producing a pungent smell. Plantar hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating). This is when your sweat glands produce more sweat than average. Diabetes (festering foot ulcers may cause foot odour). Risk factors like being overweight can cause you to sweat more than average. Additionally, eating a high-carb diet can exacerbate fungal and bacterial growth. Lastly, the strength of the odour may be a sign of the cause. For example, the "typical foot odour smell" tends to be vinegar-like, sour, or smell slightly like stinky cheese. Foot fungus can be similar, but it may be much more pungent. Wound odour (like from a severe diabetic ulcer) can be more distinct and indescribable. Remedies for Foot Odour Let's be honest, it's unlikely that your feel will smell like a bouquet of roses 24/7 (although sometimes they will after a nice self-care session!). But what you can do is limit foot odour and prevent your feet from omitting a strong smell. There are countless ways you can fight foot odour, including: Studies show that antimicrobial essential oils can fight smelly feet. Many hygienic foot products are made with antimicrobial agents. Use foot deodorants, specifically from medicinal brands like Gehwol. They typically come in various forms, including sprays and powders, and they work by absorbing excess moisture on the feet and neutralizing odour, leaving your feet smelling and feeling fresh. Try moisture wicking socks, and change your socks a couple of times during the day. Wash your feet daily with soap and water, and don't ignore your feet while you shower. Take foot cleanliness to the next level by trying a foot soak product in a foot bath. Make sure your feet are perfectly dry after washing and before putting on socks and shoes, especially in between the toes. Bacteria often thrive in moist environments. Wear breathable running shoes while exercising. Many shoes have uppers with perforated material that let fresh air in and out, promoting a healthy foot environment. Moisturize your feet daily. To prevent fungal nail infections that lead to unpleasant foot odour, attend regular medical pedicure treatments. These will keep your nails clean and properly trimmed. Foot clinics are also safer than cosmetic nail salons when it comes to avoiding contagious foot fungus. If you are diabetic, make sure you attend regular diabetic foot care appointments. If your foot odour is caused by a fungal infection, you will need to treat it with the appropriate anti-fungal medicines (ointments, pills, etc). Keep in mind that if your foot odour is linked to a condition you should also make an appointment with a chiropodist to confirm the best treatment method.
January 4, 2024
What causes athlete’s foot? Why are the symptoms so uncomfortable? Why is it so contagious? How do I get rid of it once and for all? These are just a few questions you may have about this troublesome foot condition. Let’s unpack everything there is to know about athlete’s foot and answer all of your questions! Causes of Athlete’s Foot Image Credit: pressfoto from FreePik “Athlete’s foot” is a misnomer; anyone can contract it. The term may come from the fact that athletes spend more time in places where it can spread, but the condition truly does not discriminate. Tinea pedis is the medical term for athlete's foot. It is caused by fungi called dermatophytes which grow and thrive in damp, warm environments like public showers and locker rooms, as well as moist socks, towels and shoes. Athlete’s foot is highly contagious and you can contract it if your bare feet touch a contaminated surface. It can also spread if you share towels, shoes and socks with someone who has it, or via skin-to-skin contact. Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot Image Credit: iStock Athlete’s foot has an annoying persistence that keeps you on your toes—literally! It presents itself as a nagging itch, usually on and between the toes, and can affect both feet. It can mimic an allergic reaction, eczema, psoriasis, or impetigo. You may also have the following additional symptoms: Translucent, white and wet skin between the toes A scaly rash Stinging and burning sensations Foot odour from the infection Dry skin on the bottom and sides of the feet Worsening itch after taking off shoes and socks Blisters One of the most challenging aspects of this foot condition is its relentless, chronic nature. If you don't directly target the underlying foot fungus, it can become recurring and cause the following additional problems: Spread to other people. Affect your nail health (onychomycosis). Lead to infected open sores and blisters. Spread to other parts of the body (like jock itch in the groin). Treatment and Preventing Athlete’s Foot Image Credit: iStock As bad as athlete’s foot sounds, it’s relatively easy to prevent it if you are proactive, cautious and understand how contagious it is. It can also be easily treated in its early stages before it spreads to the toenails. At the first signs, you can try an over-the-counter topical antifungal. Make sure you follow instructions thoroughly and apply the medicine to all visible fungus and itchy areas that have developed a rash. If it persists, you may need an oral antifungal pill or prescription cream. Additional treatment can include skin and nail damage repair due to fungal infections from a chiropodist. Once the infection gets under the toenail, it becomes more difficult to treat and will require treatment by a chiropodist. Preventing athlete’s foot successfully means investing in foot deodorants and anti-fungal sprays, and most importantly, keeping your feet and socks clean and dry! Furthermore, avoid contracting it by protecting your feet with shoes or flip flops in communal areas like locker rooms, showers, and public pools. You should also never share personal items where fungus can breed, like towels and socks. Image Credit: FreePik
December 7, 2023
As the chilly winds of winter sweep across the landscape, there's no denying this season's magic and beauty. The world transforms into a winter wonderland, and being cozy by the fireplace with a warm cup of cocoa has never been more tempting. However, while winter's charms are abundant, so are its challenges. One challenge many of us face during cold months is the painful and unsightly problem of cracked heels. As temperatures drop, our skin becomes susceptible to dryness and dehydration, and our feet are no exception. Cracked heels are not just a cosmetic concern; they can also lead to discomfort and pain. In this blog, we will explore the causes of cracked heels during the winter and offer some tips and remedies to keep your feet healthy and beautiful all season long. How winter weather affects your feet Here's how winter weather affects your feet and what you can do to prevent and treat dry, cracked heels: Low humidity Winter air is drier, which depletes the moisture in your skin. When the air lacks humidity, your skin loses its ability to retain water, leading to dryness and, in some cases, painful cracks in the heels. Hot showers and baths Long, hot showers or baths can be tempting in cold weather. Fair warning, though: Hot water on your skin can strip your skin of its natural oils, worsening dryness and making your feet more susceptible to cracking. Cold temperatures Exposure to cold constricts blood vessels in your feet, reducing blood flow and making it harder for your skin to repair and rejuvenate. Cold temperatures can result in dry and damaged skin. Indoor heating Indoor heating systems can create a dry environment that further robs your skin of moisture. Transitioning between the cold and warmth - outdoors and indoors - may cause abrupt changes in temperature and humidity, which can stress your skin. What to do to prevent dry, cracked heels in winter weather To prevent and treat dry, cracked heels during the winter, consider the following: Hydration Staying well-hydrated is essential for overall skin health. Drink plenty of water to help your skin retain moisture. Moisturize Regularly apply a good-quality foot cream or lotion to your feet, especially after bathing or showering. Opt for products with ingredients like urea, shea butter, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid, as they can help lock in moisture. Exfoliation Gently exfoliate your heels to remove dead skin cells. You can use a pumice stone or a foot file, but be careful not to overdo it, as excessive scrubbing can worsen the problem. Wear proper footwear In winter, it's crucial to wear proper footwear, such as moisture-wicking socks and insulated, comfortable shoes or boots. Proper winter footwear will help keep your feet warm and dry. Limit hot showers and baths Use lukewarm water for showers and baths when possible, and keep them relatively short to avoid over-drying your skin. Avoid overly drying your skin with a towel, and abrasion can further dry your skin. Bathing more than once a day can also remove the natural oils from your skin. Use a humidifier A simple at-home addition is a humidifier. Using a humidifier in your home can add moisture to the indoor air, helping to prevent skin dryness. Protect your feet Wear warm, waterproof boots when outside in cold weather to protect your feet from extreme conditions. Over-the-counter insoles that provide extra cushioning under the heel can also help fend off cracked heels. Professional treatment A chiropodist can treat cracked heels by removing callused skin surrounding fissures to repair the skin's elasticity and offload pressures on the heels to help the fissures close. You may also opt for a medical pedicure, which, among other benefits, includes an intense and comprehensive moisturizing treatment. Consider consulting a chiropodist for professional advice and treatment if your heels become severely cracked and painful.
