Our feet work hard everyday and a little TLC can really help you to avoid foot pain and problems. Your feet take the weight of you body, so if you do develop foot problems these can quickly lead to discomfort and affect the way you walk. This can then lead to knee, hip and back pain. Looking after your feet can often help to prevent these problems.
Washing:
It is important to wash your feet often. Always try not to go to bed without washing your feet. If you leave dirt on the skin’s surface, it can become irritated and infected. By washing your feet in the evening you ensure the removal of this contamination. It is vital that you dry your feet thoroughly after washing them, especially between the toes which is where germs such as Athlete's foot can easily breed. You can apply a foot cream if you wish.
Skin and nail Care:
Remove hard skin regularly but gently with a pumice stone or foot file. If you have diabetes or circulatory problems then always seek professional care for the removal of hard skin and toe nail cutting.
Always trim your toenails straight across, never at an angle or down the edges. This can cause ingrown toenails.
Shoes and socks:
Shop for shoes in the afternoon as feet swell as the day goes on and if shoes fit in the afternoon when your feet are at their largest, you can be assured they will always be comfortable. If you have to wear heels at work, wear comfortable shoes to and from the office and only wear your smart shoes once you're in the office. Also, try to vary the heel height, between low, medium and high. It is important to wear the right shows for your chosen activity. If you are walking wear supportive shoes for example. Flip-flops can be great for protecting your feet from foot bugs in pools and changing room but don't wear them all the time.They don't provide support for your feet and can give you arch and heel pain if you wear them too much.
Change your socks daily to avoid foot odour. Socks need to fit your feet well, not too tight or too baggy. It is also important that socks do not cut in around your ankles. If you find you have rings around your ankles at the end of the day then look out for soft/comfort topped socks that do not dig in. Socks made from natural fibre such as wool or cotton can help minimise sweating and odour. Our feet sweat into our shoes which can leave them damp and bacteria can start to grow. If the same shoes are worn the next day then your warm feet will promote the growth of more bacteria. To minimise this it is important not to wear the same shoes on consecutive days. Leaving a minimum of 24 hours between allows the shoes to dry out.
Treat your feet:
Feet work very hard and are often ingnored but they really benefit from a treat whenever possible. You could choose a relaxing or refreshing foot soak after a hard days work. A massage such as reflexology can benefit your whole body but also give your feet a boost too.
If you are concerned about foot problems or foot pain then seek advice from your G.P. or chiropodist.
