8 Tips For Healthy Feet

Not many people know that the average adult walks the equivalent of more than 4 times around the world in their lifetime! Therefore, it is hardly surprising that more than three quarters of adults will experience some form of problem with their feet during their lifetime.

It is important that we look after our feet as much as any other part of our bodies. Unfortunately, because for most of the time they remain hidden, 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 these top tips and transform your feet into loveable tootsies that you can be proud of!

1. Wash feet daily. Use mild, soapy water for just a few minutes. Soaking them for longer can upset the balance of natural oils in your skin. Dry your feet properly with a soft towel, of course paying careful attention to the spaces between the toes.

2. File hard skin away gently using a foot file or a pumice stone. For best results, use a pumice stone in, or straight after a bath or shower while the skin is still soft. Follow this with a foot file when your feet are dry. For a really smooth and polished feel, apply moisturising cream.

3. Apply moisturising cream to your feet daily, more often if they are really dry. Use a good quality moisturising cream and rub into the feet, paying particular attention to the sole and heel areas while avoiding the toenails and spaces between the toes. You can get specialist foot creams from your chiropodist/podiatrist or pharmacy.

4. Keep the spaces between the toes fresh and dry with a little surgical spirit. Use a cotton bud soaked with surgical spirit and apply the bud between the toes. Do this daily to prevent any sogginess or athlete's foot.

5. Keep nails trimmed. Use proper nail scissors or clippers and follow the natural curve of the end of the nail. Leave a free edge of nail at the tip, approximately 2-3 mm (0.25 inch). Do not cut or dig into the sides of the nail as this can lead to ingrown toenail.

6. Avoid going barefoot in public places such as swimming pools and gym changing rooms. Wearing flip flops can reduce the risk of picking up infections such as verrucae and athlete's foot.

7. Make sure you are wearing the right shoes for you! Poor footwear is often the cause of many foot problems, some of them severe, yet few of us even realize we are wearing the wrong shoes.

8. See a chiropodist or podiatrist if you have any concerns about your feet, a podiatrist can identify any problems and discuss the best treatment options with you. Even if you do not have a specific foot problem, it may be 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.