Keeping your feet in good shape is an important part of your overall health. Even if you have the best podiatrist in the business, they may have forgotten to share some great tips for taking care of your feet. Here are some things you may not have considered when it comes to foot care.
Possible pedicure mistakes
While it may seem like a pedicure is a great way to take care of your feet, there are a few things to know before heading to the salon. The truth is, with multiple people dipping their feet in the same small bathroom all day, bacteria and fungi are likely to remain after they are gone. If you can, try to get the first appointment of the day for a pedicure so you can be more sure that all equipment and supplies are clean. The best podiatrist will also tell you that shaving your legs right before a pedicure or letting them use a razor on your feet can increase the likelihood of infection, so try to stay away from razors.
Select a sports shoe
If you don’t play sports professionally, you most likely have athletic shoes for exercising and playing sports. Because all of these activities are demanding in different ways, you will most likely need different shoes to meet different needs. For example, when you play basketball, you need a shoe that supports your feet when you jump and spin quickly, but when you play soccer, you need a shoe that helps prevent ingrown toenails and toes. Knowing your needs will help you find a shoe that works best for you and prevent injury.
Learn to lift your legs
Whether you’re sitting at a desk all day or you’re constantly on your feet while moving, your feet could take the toll. Many people notice that their feet swell when they do one or the other for too long. The best podiatrist will tell you that to reduce swelling and get your feet back to normal, raise your legs. Elevating your feet can help drain swelling and make them feel better. You can sit in a chair or lie on the floor, but the key is to raise your feet above your heart.
Beware of being barefoot
Especially in the summer months, people are tempted to walk outside and around the pool without shoes. While releasing your feet from your shoes may feel good when you do, walking barefoot around the pool or on your way to the beach can expose you to athlete’s foot, plantar warts, ringworm, other infections, or sunburn if you don’t. Apply sunscreen. Be sure to put some flip-flops in your beach bag and prepare accordingly for summer days. You don’t want to have to go to the doctor’s office the day you come home from vacation.
