It can be easy to overlook the importance of healthy feet.
Until we actually experience a problem that causes us pain or effects our mobility, we just expect our feet to do their jobs and keep us moving.
While there is no foolproof way to entirely avoid foot problems, there are simple steps you can take to keep your feet healthy and trouble-free.
Keep these five things top of mind when taking care of the vital structures at the bottom of your legs:
- Keep them clean and dry. Fungus and bacteria are two of the biggest sources of foot problems. Everything from athlete’s foot to toenail fungus to other issues begin with a dirty and moist environment in which these enemies of the feet can grow and thrive. That is why it is so important to keep your feet clean, making sure that you scrub them with soap and water when you shower and then thoroughly dry them off when you are done. Pay particular attention to the area between your toes.
- Be careful out there. When you are walking barefoot in wet environments, such as poolside or in a locker room, be extra sure to get that moisture off your feet. Better still, wear flip-flops or shower shoes to keep your feet off of surfaces which are playgrounds for fungus.
- Check them out. When you look in the mirror, you can notice skin problems or concerns on your face, torso, and legs, but you won’t see the bottom of your feet. Take some time once a week to inspect your feet to look for signs of scaling on the soles of your feet, calluses, and any discoloration of the toenails which could indicate a problem with toenail fungus.
- Where the right shoes. Many foot problems, such as blisters, corns, calluses, and ingrown toenails are caused by shoes and other footwear that compress our feet, cause irritation, or both. Rounded, wide shoes with plenty of room and a stable heel should keep a spring in your step, while pointy shoes can squeeze the fun out of your feet. Additionally, to keep things dry, try to get shoes with breathable fabrics like mesh.
- Know when to seek help. While there are plenty of ways to treat common foot problems at home, some issues are cause for serious concern and proper treatment may only be available from a podiatrist. Knowing when to see a podiatrist isn’t an exact science, but there are several symptoms which should put you on alert that a visit to a trained foot and ankle professional should be scheduled as soon as possible.
JAWS podiatry – Hollywood, Florida Foot and Ankle Specialists
The experienced and skilled podiatrists at JAWS Podiatry in Hollywood, Florida can help you keep your feet healthy, and help you get back on your feet when problems arise.
We are a growing group of exceptional professionals who offer the highest degree of care in a welcoming, comfortable environment.
Please contact us today at (954) 922-7333 or send us a message to schedule a consultation.
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