30 Jan Love Your Feet
This February, we’re in the mood for love – for your feet, that is! Let’s face it, our feet hardly ever get the attention they deserve until something goes wrong. Remember, your feet are the foundation of your body; that’s why taking care of them is crucial for your overall health and mobility. Our podiatrists urge you to give your feet the TLC they need to keep them happy and healthy.
Inspect Your Feet at Home
Make it a habit to regularly inspect your feet for any changes in colour, shape, or the presence of lumps or bumps. Check for cuts, blisters, or signs of infection such as redness or swelling to ensure your feet remain pain-free. Early detection of foot issues allows for prompt intervention by our professional podiatrists, which can prevent more serious complications.
Choose the Right Footwear
Footwear plays a significant role in foot health. Select shoes that provide proper support, have a wide toe box, and fit comfortably. High heels and shoes with narrow toe boxes can contribute to issues like bunions and hammertoes, while thongs / flip flops lack support which leads to plantar fasciitis and tendonitis, so limit wearing them. Rotate your shoes regularly to prevent excessive wear and tear, as well as to air them out. Replace your footwear when they no longer provide adequate support.
Practise Good Foot Hygiene
Keeping your feet clean is crucial for preventing infections and maintaining overall foot health. When you’re having a shower, spend time washing your feet with mild soap and warm water, paying attention to the spaces between your toes. Make sure to dry your feet properly, especially the areas between the toes, to prevent the growth of fungi. Moisturise your feet to keep the skin soft, but avoid putting lotion between the toes as excessive moisture in this area can lead to fungal nail infections. If your socks get wet, make sure to change them immediately and choose moisture-wicking socks for sports.
Trim Your Nails Correctly
Cut your toenails straight across and avoid cutting them too short. Improper nail care can lead to ingrown toenails – ouch! File any rough edges so that they don’t get caught on your socks. If you have difficulty reaching your toenails, our podiatrists can trim your toenails properly and reduce the risk of ingrown toenails. If you notice signs of infection like redness, swelling, or pus, seek our help immediately.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Since your feet carry the load of your entire body, excess weight can put added stress on your feet, leading to conditions such as plantar fasciitis and arthritis. A balanced diet and regular exercise will keep your weight in check and lower the risk of developing chronic foot problems. Foot exercises like toe stretches, ankle circles, rolling your feet over a ball, and picking up small objects with your toes will give your feet a good workout. Our sports podiatrists can also give you personalised exercise recommendations.
Prioritise Regular Foot Assessments
While proper at-home care is crucial, regular foot assessments for you and your family by our podiatrists is a proactive way to maintain optimal foot health. They can identify potential issues before they become serious which reduces the risk of complications. Our podiatrists are trained to identify and address a wide range of foot conditions from common issues like calluses and corns to more complex problems such as gait abnormalities and warts. They will create a personalised treatment plan based on your specific needs, whether you require orthotics, have diabetic foot ulcers, or sports injuries.