Show Your Feet Some Love This Month

While February 14th gets the love focus this month, your feet could use it all month (and year) long! Now, your feet don’t need flowers or chocolates. So, what do they want? Some time, care and attention. That’s why, today, we’re sharing tips to keep your feet well cared for. On Valentine’s Day, and the other 364 days of the year.

5 Ways to Boost Foot Health Today

Part of taking good care of your feet means giving them loving care, every single day. One good way to do so? With daily cleanings, and we’re not just talking about in the shower.

1.    Make a nightly ritual around your feet.

Shortly before bed, give them a good wash, using anti-bacterial soap. (This will help keep foot odor away the next day!) Once they’re clean, dry your feet thoroughly. (And don’t forget tricky spots between the toes, or you’ll be at risk for fungal infections such as Athlete’s foot.)  Next, rub your feet with some foot cream (not lotion, since cream is more hydrating.) Finally, put on a fresh, clean pair of socks to lock in that moisture. Especially in winter, this is a great way to protect feet from dry conditions that cause lots of foot problems!

2.    Take care of calluses.

These are built-up layers of skin that develop because of pressure. (The pressure could come from your shoes, or even internally from the very way your body is constructed!) You should never try to remove your own calluses—that’s what your Hamilton and Boone County podiatrist is for. But you can use a new pumice stone to gently rub calluses while in the shower, or during your nightly soak. This can take care of some of the rough skin areas, and help prevent complications such as cracked, bleeding skin.

3.    Learn proper nail trimming.

This is the best way to stop ingrown toenails. Trim straight across (or with a minor curve.) Leave a solid amount of white nail, to protect your toes from trauma and prevent changes in the direction of your nail growth.

4.    Pick proper shoes. 

Get fitted professionally to make sure you’re wearing the right size. Be sure to keep your feet protected in shoes always, even when indoors. And if your feet hurt, even in the right size and style of shoe, consider orthotics for extra support! 

5.    Be an at-home foot detective.

Whether or not you have diabetes, give your feet a check every day. Look for scratches, bumps, areas of pressure or anything that looks different. (If you’re diabetic, you’ll need to add quarterly podiatrist exams as well.) Then, if you notice anything that’s not right, what should you do? You guessed it…give us a call and come into the office right away. We’ll figure out the trouble and get you walking comfortably again. As soon as possible!