Feet are complex body parts made up of multiple bones, joints, and muscles that work together so you can stand, walk, run, and climb. They have the strength and structure to support your body weight and the flexibility to adjust to uneven terrain.
You may not think much about your feet and their capabilities until you have foot pain that keeps you from doing your usual activities. Though you can’t prevent all foot problems, getting into healthy habits that benefit your feet may help you avoid complications.
In this month's blog, our skilled podiatrist, Dr. Richard Hochman, wants to share habits your feet will thank you for.
Foot health starts with good hygiene. You can prevent a lot of problems by washing your feet every day with warm soapy water, removing dirt and germs.
After washing, gently pat your feet dry, making sure to get between the toes to prevent fungal infections like athlete’s foot.
Your feet have their own set of sweat glands that keep things cool. Unfortunately, the moisture from the sweat and the warmth from your socks and shoes makes the perfect breeding ground for germs that lead to infections, like fungal nails.
If you have sweaty feet, using cornstarch, foot powder, or antifungal powder after washing and drying can help control the sweat. You should wear socks that draw moisture from your feet. It’s also helpful to keep a spare pair of socks to change into when your feet get too sweaty.
Choosing shoes based on function rather than fashion is a good habit for keeping your feet healthy. Regularly wearing shoes that are too tight or have high heels increases your risk of foot problems like hammertoe and bunions.
A good shoe feels comfortable right away. Shop for shoes at the end of the day when your feet are at their largest to get the best fit.
Keep your feet happy by trimming your toenails straight across and then using a nail file to smooth out any ragged edges. If you round the edge or cut the nail too short, it may grow into the skin, causing an ingrown toenail.
Your nails are softer after a shower or bath, making it a good time to trim the toenails.
Shoes and socks protect your feet from sharp objects and germs. If you want to avoid unnecessary cuts and infections, don’t walk around barefoot, especially in public places.
Foot pain is a sign that something is wrong. Though the source of your discomfort isn’t always a serious issue, ignoring it won’t make it go away.
If you have foot pain, let us help. We can find the source of your pain and provide treatments to improve it.
In some cases, changing your shoes or using orthotics may solve the problem. For chronic foot pain from plantar fasciitis, we may recommend innovative treatments like shockwave therapy.
Keep your feet happy by following healthy habits. But when you have a foot problem, don’t try to fix it yourself. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Hochman at our office in Coral Gables, Florida, in the greater Miami area by calling us today or requesting an appointment online.
