Healthy Feet Give You a Happy Walk
Our feet are easy to ignore. Over time, that creates problems that you won’t want to deal with. By taking the time to ensure that your feet are healthy, you will be giving yourself a happy future.
How to Keep Your Feet Healthy
Keep your feet clean—when you shower or bathe, you need to wash your feet and dry them thoroughly. Because bacteria like to live in between your toes, you need to give the area special attention when drying.
Keep your nails short—this is especially important if you have diabetes. Letting nails grow long can cause ingrown toenails, which can damage the feet. Another way of avoiding this issue is to cut nails in a straight line.
Avoid constantly painting your toenails—if you wear polish on your toes, give them a break for a few days before changing colors. That will let your toes breathe.
Pumice your feet-using a pumice stone will remove calluses and dead skin that appear commonly on feet.
Moisturize—your feet will have thinner skin as you age. That causes them to crack, bleed, and cause you pain. As a person with diabetes, you will experience further issues. Luckily, you can avoid that by rubbing a moisturizing lotion onto both feet after you bathe. However, avoid the space between your toes.
Stretching—when you think of stretching, likely, you don't consider your feet. Stretching your feet is quite beneficial, however, as it prevents pain.
The proper shoes are your friend—when you wear the wrong shoes, you are inviting bacteria and fungus to greet your feet. The right shoes will keep them away and let your feet feel comfortable. When choosing the proper footwear, be sure that they are comfortable yet supportive. If you are an active person, invest in quality athletic shoes that fit your feet well.
James C. Ricketti, DPM of Hamilton Square, NJ, is a board-certified podiatrist who will help treat any foot and ankle injuries, diseases, damage, or deformities while offering you the best care along with the most advanced options. Dr. Ricketti and his staff will have your feet at their best in no time. Call 609-587-1674 to get help today.