Do you neglect your feet?
Feet are more prone to injury and sores than the rest of the body, because of the heavy burden (our body) that they have to carry around. And at times, we forget all about them, especially in winter.
Self-care to relieve common foot ailments
* Blisters – Cover the blister with an adhesive bandage until it heals. Never pop a blister, but if it breaks, wash and apply an antiseptic and re-bandage.
* Corns/calluses – Relieve pressure with padding or moleskin. Never cut the affected area and don’t use medicated pads without consulting your foot specialist.
* Bunions – Wear low-heeled shoes that have a wide toe boax and instep. Try shoe inserts or pads to cushion the bunion.
* Fungal infections – Non-presecription anti-fungal products can help control athlete’s foot, which can lead to nail fungus. Always keep feet clean and dry – especially between the toes. Always wear sandals in public areas (gym’s showers, saunas, pool areas, etc). If symptoms do not imporve in 2 – 4 weeks, see your foot specialist.
* Flat feet – Wear special insoles that you would get from a podiatrist/podologist. And avoid wearing flat shoes.
* Hard skin – Do not cut hard skin with a razor. Instead use a pumice stone gently and regularly (3 times a week) while having a shower or a bath, as it’s best when your feet are wet. Do not over work the area – it’s best to use gently and more frequently, than just once a week and remove too much.
* Ingrowing toenails – Avoid getting ingrowing toenails by cutting your nails straight. If you get an ingrowing toenail, see a foot specialist to explain how to treat it.
Are you diabetic?
Diabetes can lead to nerve damage and reduced circulation to your feet, which slows healing.
* Get regular foot exams foot exams and see a podiatrist/podologist at least once a year.
* Check your feet daily for blisters, breaks in the skin, redness or swelling.
* See your foot specialist if foot problems continue or sores don’t heal properly.
Your shoes
A good fit is key to happy feet. Foot relief starts at the shoe store. Remember, your feet grow slightly in width and length as you age. Always try shoes before you buy them and do so late in the day, when feet tend to be swollen. Avoid high-heeled shoes, and also flat shoes – ideally your shoes should have a 1 inch wedge.
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Claire Morawski is also the founder of myBODY&CO – a healthy living clinic in Malta. At myBODY&CO’s blog, Claire shares a lot of information related to living a healthy lifestyle including fat loss – why is protein important with every meal, which carbohydrates are good for you, why losing more than 1 kilo a week will make you fatter, how food labelled ‘low-calories cooking’ get 100% of their calories from fat, why a routine of just cardio might make you fatter, and more. If you are interested, why not join myBODY&CO community.