Your feet are one of the essential body parts. Your feet carry the whole weight of the body. Just imagine, if your feet would suddenly stop functioning, you will be handicapped, and life will become challenging. Still, the sad part is that the feet are still one of the most ignored parts of your body. Keep in mind that your feet require the same pampering and care as your face and hair, maybe more.
Here are some tips from experts to keep your feet healthy and in good shape.
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Wear The Right Shoes!
Who does not like to flaunt their feet in high heels? But wearing high heels every day can cause several foot problems including blisters, athlete’s foot, corns, and calluses. If you have a job in which you are required to stand or walk for long hours, then get yourself a comfortable pair of flat-soled shoes like Birkenstock. Buy shoes that fit you perfectly. The size of your shoes should not be too big or too tight. Avoid wearing pointed shoes or shoes with closed tips daily. They tend to stop your feet from getting air.
Wash Your Feet Properly
After a long and tiring day washing your feet might seem like a big task, but it is better than walking with cuts and blisters every day. Clean your feet by soaking them in warm water and a little moisturizer. Scrub and exfoliate them using a pumice stone. Even if you do not take a bath every day, try to wash your feet. Remember, not to soak your feet in very hot water or for too long as it can make your feet lose their natural oils. Pat your feet dry using a towel. Over time the skin of the feet gets dry, flaky, and thin. Moisturize your feet regularly with a lotion or petroleum jelly to avoid this. Avoid applying moisturizer between your toes as that area should be kept dry to eliminate the chances of any infection.
Trim Your Toenails
Trim your toenails using a regular nail cutter. Cut them straight across. Do not round the corners with a filer as doing this can end you up having ingrown nails which are extremely painful. File and clean your toenails regularly. If you have irritation or pain in your foot, do not attempt to cure it on your own. You might make it worse, and the damage can be irreversible. It is crucial that as soon as you have an issue with your foot, you should contact a professional and get help.
Wear Proper Socks
Wearing socks can protect your feet from bacteria and moisture. Wear a clean pair of socks that do not give out the odor. The socks should not be too tight or loose should and cover your heel and ankle adequately. Your socks should let air reach your feet. Avoid walking barefoot to protect your feet from any injury, wear a pair of suitable footwear when in the gym or near a pool. Apply sunblock to prevent sunburn. Avoid wearing flip flops regularly because they are flat and do not give you the cushion support needed. They can cause foot pain.
Work Out Regularly
Keep your feet active by jogging, running, going for a walk or swimming at least a few times a week. Stretching exercises for your feet are also critical. Your feet are supposed to distribute your weight evenly. To increase your feets’ ability to balance, try doing yoga. It will also help with your leg, back and hip problems.
Examine Your Feet Every Day If You Are Diabetic
Diabetic patients need to check their feet every day for any cuts, cracked skin or wounds. They should immediately contact their doctor and get the scars treated. If your toenail is discolored, cracked or flaky it may be indicating a nail fungus. Do not try to cover it with nail polish. This can lead to the infection getting worse.
Do Not Share Shoes
The fastest way that bacteria transfers to your foot are when you wear someone else’s shoes. Avoid wearing shoes and socks worn by other people like this you can get you to nail fungus.
Infections Your Feet Are Prone To:
Bunions are more common in women because of their high heels. If you suffer from bunions, you know the intensity of the pain. Wear comfortable shoes that will not put pressure on your affected bone. Friction in cramped shoe corns often results in grains. They can be treated and removed by soaking your feet in warm water every day and gently rubbing off grains using a towel. Do not remove corns using a razor and if it hurts, contact your doctor. You can end up having a contagious fungus infection known as the athlete’s foot because of the sweat between the toes. It can be cured using effective medication over time. To prevent an athlete’s foot, you should wear shoes that allow air to pass through them. You should use antifungal powder and keep your feet clean and away from any moisture. Make sure the shoes you wear are not wet or damp. If you have a blister that hurts, burst it using a sterilized needle and later cover it with antiseptic liquid.
last word: Take care of your feet, and they will take care of your whole body.