Podiatry Tips for Healthy Feet
Podiatry is a specialty focused on the treatment of conditions of the foot and ankle. It is a specialty of medicine dealing almost exclusively with the foot and ankle. Podiatry includes the treatment of minor ailments, for instance, ingrown toenails, but can also include surgeries ranging from elective procedures, such as bunions and hammertoes, to trauma cases such as foot and ankle fractures and also reconstructive surgeries of foot and ankle. Most Podiatry Clinics in Fontana, or pretty much anywhere nationwide can assist you with such treatments.
These tips from the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgery will help you keep your feet in good condition and help keep problems at bay.
General Foot Care
Wash your feet regularly
Washing your feet every day in warm soapy water will keep them clean, but don’t soak them, as this might take away your skin’s essential oils.
Keep your feet dry
Dry your feet carefully after washing them, particularly between the toes; this is where fungal infections like athlete’s foot can occur.
File and Moisturize
People having dry skin need to apply moisturizing cream all over the foot, but leave the area between your toes dry.
Gently remove calluses and hard skin with a foot file or pumice stone. Don’t overdo it or you could harm fresh skin underneath. Apply moisturizing cream after.
Cut toenails cautiously
Trim your toenails frequently using appropriate nail clippers. Always cut straight across and never down the corners or at an angle. This can result in ingrown toenails.
Shop for shoes in the afternoon
This is because your feet swell as the day progresses and if shoes fit in the afternoon with your feet at their largest, you can be certain they’ll always be comfy.
Footwear Tips
Based on your occupation, you may need to wear special footwear, for instance, shoes with anti-slip soles or hard reinforced toecaps.
If your job requires you to wear high heels, wear comfy shoes on your way to work and wear your heels when you reach your workplace.
Limit time wearing high heels
Only wear pointed shoes and high heels for special occasions.
If you wear heels, try to limit your heel height. Wearing a heel higher than a few inches (5-6cm) on a daily basis can damage your feet.
Change socks daily to prevent foot odor
As well as changing your socks frequently. Wear socks made of wool, cotton, or bamboo. These enable your feet to breathe and help them in temperature regulation.
Wear socks that fit
Make sure your socks fit appropriately, paying precise attention to the breadth for your foot and ankle.
People with swollen feet need to look for socks designed to accommodate your swollen feet. Compression socks or stockings are helpful to prevent swelling or varicose veins.
If you suffer from decreased sensation in your feet (neuropathy), make sure there are no knobbly seams within your socks that may rub and injure your skin. Turning your socks inside out can help stop rubbing.
Guard your feet in communal areas
Wear pool shoes or flip-flops to prevent getting athlete’s foot and warts when using community areas like swimming pools or gym showers.
Exercise Caution with flip-flops
Avoid wearing flip-flops for longer periods. They don’t support your feet, and you can develop arch and heel pain if you wear them for too long.