Many look after their bodies, from joints and muscles to nails and hair, but they ignore their feet and don’t care about any foot care routine. We think our feet are hidden in our shoes, so we don’t pay much attention to them. It can cause significant problems that can significantly impact our lives and cause health issues in the future.
Poor treatment makes people more likely to develop foot problems as they age. One in three people over 65 suffers from foot pain, stiffness, or sore feet, and this number is increasing slowly. However, implementing a proper foot care routine can alleviate the distress and produce positive outcomes regardless of age or overall health.
Why is foot care routine important?
Feet constitute a large component of the body’s foundation; therefore, keeping them in good condition is crucial for our overall well-being. Our lifestyle and selection of footwear can result in injury and conditions of the foot that could greatly hinder our mobility. Problems with feet can be excruciating and leave us susceptible to accidents, such as falling.
Three primary reasons to look after our feet include:
- The quality of life
- A productive work way of life and
- Regular physical exercise.
Walking, shopping, and working are just a few examples of our daily activities. Problems with our feet could prevent us from working at our peak.
The skin on our feet is abrasive, and taking good care of it is vital. Our feet are not designed to feel dry and rough. The longer this problem continues, the more likely it is that your feet will begin to break. When left untreated for long time, bacteria that cause harm can develop.
Some Common Foot Problems
Athlete’s foot
Athlete’s feet is a fungal fungus that infects the skin around the toes. It’s caused by fungal growth in a gym or shower where people walk around barefoot. The fungus can cause severe discomfort, itching, cracks, blistering, or peeling on the foot.
Ingrown toenails
When the toenail begins to expand inside the nail groove, it can cause severe discomfort and pain. It is caused by poorly fitting narrow or tight shoes that may put additional tension on the toes.
Blisters
Blisters occur when you run or walk for long durations, if your feet are sweaty, or if you wear shoes that aren’t fit enough. They result from a raised fluid-filled pocket and are generally not a severe issue. It is recommended not to puncture them but to let them heal naturally.
Bunions
These foot conditions result in a bump that develops at the large toe joint. This bump can lead to the toe turning slightly towards the side. Shoes that are narrow or tight can lead to bunions. Ladies are much more likely to develop bunions due to the pressure caused by heels.
Stone Bruise
They’re the result of intense exercise or wearing shoes that aren’t properly fitted. The region between the toes and an arch on the feet can become painful and numb. There are occasionally sharp pains, as the stone is inside the shoe. The symptoms gradually get worse over time. The treatment is taking a break, applying an ice pack, and wearing better-fitting shoes.
Foot Care Tips
Washing
The skin on the feet is particularly vulnerable to fungal and bacterial infections because it is covered in shoes and socks most of the time and exposed to grime and dirt. Therefore, wash and soap your feet every day to remove the sweat and dirt trapped in them.
Select the Appropriate Footwear
Finding the proper footwear for your feet, although expensive, is beneficial in the long term. Comfortable shoes allow enough space for your feet to move and breathe, allowing you to walk and run with ease. Do not wear tight shoes, which can cause sores or skin infections. Avoid wearing high heels often, as they can cause injury to the ligaments and tissues of your feet.
Moisturising
Do not limit your moisturizing routine to only your hands and face. Insufficient moisture can make the skin of your feet chapped, dry, and scaly, especially in the area of your heels. The area will then be an ideal location for grime and dirt that can begin to stick to the area. Heel aches that are chapped do not only look hideous, they can also cause pain. Be sure to apply a substantial amount of moisturizing product each day after you have washed your feet. Petroleum jelly or cocoa butter could be effective options.
Removing the Jagged Skin
Gently remove the dead skin first with exfoliation at least once a month using loofas or pumice stones. This helps remove the grime and dirt that has accumulated on the hardened dead skin. Then, follow up with a hydrating moisturizer and allow it to rest for a night.
Scrubbing is also possible using a mixture of olive oil and sugar, with a few drops of tea tree oil or mint added for antibacterial benefits.
Pamper Your Feet
Use mashed banana and lemon juice to make a hydrating mask. Apply the mixture on your feet, and rinse them by soaking in warm water for 20 minutes. Apply moisturising foot creams or petroleum jelly prior to going out, and after you are ready to go to bed.
Keep Your Socks On
Socks shield you from cold temperatures and your feet from damage caused by the environment. Socks guard your feet against dirt and dust that could stick to the cream you apply to feet. They also shield from UV radiation.
Dip in Hot Water
Warm water has beneficial and therapeutic effects on the feet. Warming the feet with warm water for 15 to 20 minutes can boost circulation and blood flow. Make sure the water isn’t too cold or too hot.
Trim Your Nails Regularly
Regular nail trimming keeps the feet tidy. Nails should not be cut too short, as they could grow in and cause irritation. It is preferential for nails to be cut straight across and then gently cut the edges.
Get Manicures
It may sound fancy, but they can be your most trusted companion. They do not just help your feet look nice but also clean up dirt, remove dead skin cells, improve blood circulation, and promote good nail health.
Our feet bear the weight of our entire body and are crucial to our looks. Neglecting them can lead to problems that affect our overall quality of life. A proactive approach to foot care routine prevents discomfort and potential ailments. It enhances our daily activities, ensuring we move with ease and confidence.