Top Four Essential Steps For Healthy And Comfortable Feet

Our feet work incredibly hard during an average day, but often we don’t pay them very much attention until something goes wrong. However, it is not difficult for most of us to have happy feet with a few simple good habits. Here are some tips to follow to help keep your feet in first class condition. 

Keep them clean and dry

Moist conditions allow bacteria to thrive, and this can lead to fungal infections such as athlete’s foot. It tends to develop between the toes, and produces symptoms such as an itchy white rash that can develop cracks and sores. This can lead to painful splits in between the toes, and the infection may spread across the balls of the feet and into the nails.

To prevent athlete’s foot, wash your feet every day and dry between your toes, especially before putting on socks and shoes. Where clean socks every day, and change your towels on a regular basis. If possible, choose natural materials such as cotton and leather for your footwear, because these are breathable and reduce sweating.

Athlete’s foot is contagious, so avoid sharing towels or walking barefoot in communal areas. It can be treated with antifungal creams that are available to buy in pharmacies. 

Check your feet regularly

At least once a week, examine your feet for signs of irregularities such as cuts, swelling, soreness, or bruising. Check for signs of changes to the colour or texture of the skin, and any problems such as corns, calluses, bunions, or ingrown toenails.

If you do notice any rough or hard skin, rub the soles of your feet with a pumice stone or a foot file and apply moisturiser afterwards. This will help you to feel comfortable when walking and stop any more serious damage such as cracks and sores developing. 

If you do notice any pain or discomfort, deal with the root cause straight away as ignoring it could lead to a more serious or complicated issue developing over time. 

Cut your toenails straight across

Do not let your toenails grow too long; most people need to cut them about once a week. Cut them straight across to avoid the risk of ingrown toenails. If necessary, gently file away any sharp or rough corners. 

Choose your footwear carefully

You should always wear shoes that fit you properly and support your feet. Avoid ordering shoes online, because manufacturers have different sizing systems and you may need a different size. 

It’s always better to try before you buy, preferably at the end of the day because our feet tend to swell during the day. You want to make sure that the shoes are comfortable even when they are at their largest. 

If you are exercising, look for shoes with cushioned soles to help absorb some of the impact. Avoid wearing the same pair of shoes two days in a row as shoes absorb sweat, and you need to let them dry out to avoid the risk of infections.
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