Did
you know . . . the average adult walks the equivalent of more than 4
times around the world in a lifetime! So it's hardly surprising that
between 75 and 80% of adults have some form of foot problem during
their lifetime.
We need to look after our feet as much as any part of our bodies.
Unfortunately, we often neglect them and it's not until our feet become
uncomfortable that we pay them any attention.
To keep problem feet at bay, follow our top tips and transform your
feet into loveable tootsies you can be proud of!
- Wash
your feet daily in mild, soapy water for just a few minutes. Soaking
them for longer will upset the balance of natural oils in your skin.
Dry your feet properly with a soft towel, paying careful attention to
the spaces between the toes.
- File
hard skin away with a foot or pumice stone. For best results, use a
pumice stone in the bath or shower when the skin is soft. Follow with a
foot file [looks like a large emery board] after bathing when your feet
have dried. For that really smooth and polished feel, finish by
applying moisturising cream.
- Apply
cream to your feet daily, more often if they are really dry. Use a
good, thick moisturing cream and rub into feet, paying particular
attention to the sole and heel areas while avoiding the toenails and
spaces between the toes. Specialist foot creams are available from your
podiatrist and pharmacy.
- Keep
the spaces between the toes fresh and dry with a little surgical
spirit and use a little antifungal foot powder.
- Keep
nails trimmed. Using proper nail scissors or clippers, follow the
natural curve of the end of the nail, leaving a 'free edge' of nail at
the tip of approximately 2-3 mm. Do not cut or dig into the sides of
the nail as this can create an ingrown toenail.
- Avoid
walking barefoot in public places such as swimming pools and gym
changing areas. Wearing flip flops can reduce the risk of
picking up
infections such as verrucae and Athlete's Foot.
- Make
sure you are wearing the right shoes for you! Poor footwear can be the
cause of many foot problems, yet few of us realise we are wearing the
wrong shoes.
- See
a podiatrist. If you have any concerns about your feet, a podiatrist
can identify any problems and discuss the best treatment options for
you. Even if you havent a specific problem, it's a good idea to visit a
podiatrist once in a while to identify any problems you may have early
and to advise you on the best ways to care for your feet.
|
| Location |
View Larger
Map |
|
|
| Walkinstown Medical Centre |
 |
|
