10 Tips to Keep Your Feet Healthy

10 Tips to Keep Your Feet Healthy  

It is important to keep your feet healthy for several reasons. For example, if you develop foot problems, it can lead to pain and eventually decreased activity. Keeping your feet healthy helps you maintain good mobility and prevents chronic foot discomfort. The good news is there are several easy things you can do to maintain healthy feet. Consider the following tips:

Examine your feet

Although you don’t have to check your feet every day, it is a good idea to get into the habit of self-examining your feet from time to time. Look for peeling or redness between your toes, which could be signs of athlete’s foot. Check your toenails for discoloration, which might signal a fungal infection. Treating minor foot problems early may help prevent them from becoming worse.

Keep your feet clean 

Damp feet can be a breeding ground for fungus, which can lead to a foot infection. Keeping your feet clean will also help reduce foot odor. Be sure to wash your feet thoroughly and dry them well. Trim your toenails and use a pumice stone to help remove calluses.

Wear shoes that fit properly 

Few things can make your feet feel worse than a badly fitting pair of shoes. If you wear shoes that are too tight, it can lead to crowding of your toes and possibly pain.  Shoes with heels that are too high may also affect the way you walk. Wear shoes that are appropriate for the activity you are doing and fit well. Look for shoes that have a stable heel and room for your toes.

Protect your feet

Walking around barefoot, especially in a locker room or public pool, can increase your risk of developing a fungal foot infection. Wear a pair of flip-flops to protect your feet. Also, wear shoes that cover your toes when doing any type of activity that may lead to a foot injury.

Stretch 

When you think of stretching, you might not think that it includes your feet. But stretching your feet is helpful. According to Harvard Medical School, doing foot stretches can prevent certain types of foot pain. The exact type of stretch may depend on the problems you have with your feet. Talk to a foot specialist about specific stretches for your feet.

Wear breathable footwear 

If possible, try to wear shoes that allow your feet to breathe. Walking around all day in a pair of shoes that do not allow your feet to breathe can make your feet sweaty. Look for shoes that allow air circulation, such as sandals. Shoes made of leather also provide more air circulation. 

Maintain a healthy weight

Being overweight is bad for your overall well-being. Being overweight may also affect your feet. When we carry excess weight, it can impact our joints and muscles in the body. If you are overweight, getting to and maintaining a healthy weight will reduce the stress on your feet.

Hydrate your skin

Your feet can become dry any time of the year. Use a moisturizer on your feet to prevent dry, cracked skin.

Reconsider certain heels

Wearing a nice pair of high heels may complete your outfit. But wearing high heels can change your foot position. If you wear towering heels often, it can lead to pain in your feet. Consider limiting high heels to special occasions.

See a foot specialist 

Consider seeing a foot specialist if you have any problems with your feet, such as heel pain, swelling, or a painful bunion.  Also, if you are a diabetic, it may be a good idea to see a podiatrist once a year for an exam.