10 Tips for Healthy Feet
Just as a sturdy building begins with the construction of a strong foundation, feet that are well cared for are the essential foundation of an active lifestyle leading to long-term health and well-being. Neglecting your feet can create unnecessary discomfort throughout your body.
Here are ten tips - one for each of your toes - to make sure that you're living your best life on two pain-free feet.
Good Hygiene Is Important
Use soap and water to wash your feet every day. Fungus thrives in moist environments, so be sure to dry your feet well and pay attention to the spaces between your toes!
Bacteria and fungi abound in locker rooms and public pools. Wear shower shoes when you visit these places to avoid athlete's foot and warts.
Minimize sweat and keep feet dry In wool or cotton socks. If socks get damp, change them as soon as you can. Perspiration can create a moist environment hospitable to fungi.
Be alert to potential problems. Check your feet weekly, noting problems or changes. If you have diabetes, check your feet more frequently, as diabetics experience foot sores and infections more frequently than others.
Avoid ingrown toenails buy trimming them straight across.
If you enjoy the occasional professional pedicure, make sure that your salon is clean and that instruments are sterilized. Never allow the technician to use a razor on your feet!
Choose shoes made of leather. They allow air to circulate so feet can "breathe." Shoes made of newer mesh fabrics are a great option if you tend toward sweaty feet.
Shoes that are too tight or too loose can lead to long-term foot problems. See a professional for a proper fitting. Choose a broad, wide shoe with a wide, low heel. Pointy shoes and stiletto heels are fashionable, but wearing them too often isn't a good idea. They can squeeze your toes, causing ingrown toenails.
Don't share shoes, socks, or other items that touch the feet. In situations where you must share, such as renting bowling shoes, be sure everything is treated with antibacterial spray.
See a podiatrist when a problem arises. Your podiatrist has years of training and experience and is the best doctor to diagnose and treat all of your foot and ankle issues.
Contact James C. Ricketti, DPM and let us address all your foot and ankle needs. Our board-certified podiatrist will tailor treatments based on your individual needs and with our state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options, we’ll help you get back on your feet in no time! Call our office today at 609-587-1674 to make an appointment at our conveniently located Hamilton, NJ office.