Feet are definitively the body’s workhorses, but we rarely give them the respect that they deserve and need. It is very easy for us all to take our feet for granted. This leaves them to simply put up with a variety of challenges that include them being crammed into high heel shoes as well as smothering within tight nylons or sweaty socks.
In addition, our feet take on tons of force impact during an average day of working and walking. This amount of pounding expressly explains why they are part of the body that is most likely to become injured.
With that being said, there is actually no need for expensive spa treatments in order to keep your feet well taken care of. All you actually need to do is to spend a few moments per day on foot care in addition to choosing the proper shoes. Proper shoe options will keep your feet free of issues that can lead to pain or even disability.
Daily Foot Care Routine
1. Wash Your Feet and Between the Toes
This should be done regularly and carefully with a washcloth. Be sure to dry your feet completely after they have been thoroughly washed. This will prevent the onset of fungus, athlete’s foot, bacteria as well as foot odor.
2. Avoid Epsom Salts
Should you enjoy socking your feet, avoid the use of Epsom salts. They are far too drying and offer no actual medical benefit for your feet and toes. A plausible option is the use of warm water with a minute amount of liquid soap that contains skin softeners.
For those that tend to have issues with foot odor, you will want to soak your feet in a mixture of warm (NEVER hot) water and vinegar.
3. Moisturize
After completely washing and drying your feet, especially during the winter months, moisturize. It is best to moisturize your feet several times per day (especially during the dry skin winter months). Basic creams and lotions are perfectly fine for this, there is no need to invest in fancy and expensive moisturizers.
4. Alternate Shoes
Each day, it is important to alternate the shoes that you wear. This may entail having two pairs of your favorite everyday shoes to wear. Your shoes need time to air out in order to avoid the generation of infections and/or foot odor. Additionally, stockings or socks will need to be changed more than one time per day.
5. Avoid Pain Triggers
It is NOT normal for your feet to hurt….EVER. Shoes that are tight have the ability to cause painful growths on the foot, distort the shape, and worsen bunions. If you are prone to wearing high heels, it is best to choose those that are no higher than two inches, stable as well as wide.
The toes boxes of the shoes should be wide and pointed toes should not begin to narrow until they are well past the ball of the foot. In order to protect the Achilles tendon from becoming shortened, it is best to alternate heel heights regularly.
6.) Maintain Arch Support
Walking about either barefoot or in flip flops provides zero arc support. Given that women are extremely prone to the development of flat feet that can lead to foot issues, it is best that they especially avoid this practice.
In order to keep your feet healthy and strong, it is imperative that you minimize the amount of time spent wearing shoes that lack proper arch support.
7. Change According to Life
Diabetes, aging as well as pregnancy can affect your feet. Women that are pregnant will need t opt for footwear with broad heels, good shock absorption, and arch support. Older women will need to reduce some of the cushioning of their shoes at the balls of their feet and opt for shoes that are outfitted with enhanced shock absorption.
Individuals that are currently suffering from diabetes have the ability to develop serious conditions that are related to their lower legs and feet. Therefore they will need to check their feet for any issues each day as well as consult with a podiatrist annually.
8.) Be Cautious of Salon Pedicures
When it comes to a pedicure, the cleanliness and the instruments and the tubs are vital in regard to your overall foot health. Therefore, be thoroughly aware of the sanitary conditions of the salon that you patronize; and those suffering from diabetes should consult with a medical professional before embarking upon one.