No matter who you are, your behaviors can make or destroy your foot health (literally). That’s why it’s so important to look after them – they can take a beating, but mistreating them will eventually prevent them from kicking. This article will provide some helpful hints that everyone with feet should incorporate into their daily routine.

1. Examine your feet for changes on a regular basis…

The majority of people take their feet for granted. However, your feet are extremely sensitive to how you care them, and they also disclose a lot about your overall health. As a result, it’s critical to keep an eye on them for any changes.

 

If you detect minor changes such as cuts, blisters, or swelling, don’t disregard them. They could be signs of inadequate skin care or wearing the incorrect footwear. They could also indicate an injury or disease (ie. diabetes). Early detection of these changes can lead to an earlier identification of a problem, making it easier to treat and avoid complications.

 

2. Inspect the inside of your shoes at all times

In addition to evaluating your feet, you should inspect the state of your shoes. Foot health is influenced by its surroundings, and no environment is more harmful to your feet than your shoes.

 

Your feet may become irritated if your shoes are worn out on the inside. Footbeds that have come loose or lost their cushioning, on the other hand, will no longer provide the support your feet require. Essentially, as shoes wear out, they become less effective at protecting your feet and can potentially cause injury.

 

So check your shoes (and orthotics) for wear and tear, and replace them as needed.

 

3. Put on shoes that are orthotic-friendly.

You should wear orthotic-friendly shoes whether you’re an athlete, an office worker, or don’t have any foot difficulties.

 

First and foremost, orthotic-friendly shoes can safeguard your feet from potential health issues, especially if you’re prone to them. Second, if you’re already in pain or uncomfortable, orthotic-friendly shoes can help.

 

This is because orthotic-friendly shoes are designed to absorb stress and pressure, as well as decrease skin irritation and support natural foot mobility. In this regard, many shoes fail to protect your feet. Of course, that’s why so many individuals develop (or worsen) problems in the first place: they’re wearing the incorrect shoes.

 

That being said, orthotic-friendly shoes can assist each and everyone, regardless of whether or not they have foot problems.

 

4. If necessary, use custom orthotics

Unlike orthotic-friendly shoes, which should be worn by everyone, custom orthotics should only be used as needed. But utilize them when they’re needed! Many foot problems, from plantar fasciitis to diabetic neuropathy, can be slowed or even reversed with custom orthotics.

 

As a result, pain reduction, infection prevention, enhanced foot flexibility, and other benefits are achieved. Consider this: orthotics can often treat a variety of ailments that would otherwise necessitate surgery if left untreated. We believe that wearing some cushioning is preferable to going under the knife.

 

5. Have your feet examined on a regular basis.

The first piece of advise we gave you was to examine your feet on a regular basis. However, it’s sometimes a good idea to have your feet examined by a professional. Some foot changes are evident, such as bruises and scratches, while more subtle changes in skin structure and color may go unnoticed. However, to a podiatrist, they could be an indication of a developing health condition, which is why you should see them on a regular basis.

 

You should also have your gait assessed on a regular basis. This might help you identify unnoticed movement patterns so that you can wear orthotic-friendly shoes or orthotics to avoid foot injury. Professional inspection is a second set of eyes that can spot things you might overlook.

 

6. Put on clean, dry, and well-fitting socks.

Due to wetness and dampness, human feet are prone to infection, particularly fungal diseases. It’s for this reason that dry socks are essential. Moisture-wicking textiles are the ideal choice since they absorb moisture and keep your feet dry.

 

It’s also a good idea to wear socks that are the proper size. Too-loose socks can generate friction in your shoes, which can lead to blistering. Overly tight socks can limit blood flow. So choose socks that are snug but still allow for some breathing room.

 

7. Be Wary of Walking Barefoot…

Yes, we are in the midst of the barefoot walking craze. Although it has been linked to a variety of health benefits, barefoot walking should be approached with caution. We don’t want to scare you, but that green grass field that seems perfect for walking could be hiding glass, razors, needles, and other harmful objects. This could result in significant injury.

 

Seriously, if you haven’t thoroughly evaluated a surface, put on your shoes. If it’s your own backyard that you’ve taken care of, you can make an exception, but even then, you should be cautious.

 

8. Get Rid of Unhealthy, Foot-Destructive Habits

Your feet, like any other limb or organ in the body, are sensitive to your habits. What you eat, sleep, drink, breathe, and everything else is what your feet are. Poor diet, stress, and excessive alcohol or smoking can all have a negative impact on foot health, both indirectly and directly.

 

Dry skin and skin cracking/peeling can be caused by vitamin and mineral deficiency. Gout can be caused by excessive drinking, and smoking can limit blood flow. Furthermore, exercising in the improper shoes can result in repetitive stress injuries that would be avoided if the shoes were properly fitted. The rule is simple: lead a healthy lifestyle and you’ll likely prevent most foot issues.

 

9. Take care of diabetes (If You Have It)

Diabetic foot is a term that describes a group of issues that affect the health of one’s feet. Sores, infections, dry skin, color and texture changes, neuropathy (nerve pain or loss of sensation), and others are among them. High blood glucose levels can harm the foot, and in severe situations, they can lead to infections that necessitate amputation.

 

Fortunately, diabetics who maintain their blood sugar under control can easily prevent these devastating effects. It is critical to monitor one’s blood sugar levels on a regular basis, take medications as prescribed, and live a diabetes-friendly lifestyle. Diabetics should also evaluate their feet for skin changes on a regular basis and wear diabetic footwear and orthotics to protect themselves from wounds.

 

10. Take Care of Your Feet

Your feet can endure a lot of punishment. That is something that anyone who is an athlete or works in a physically demanding job can attest to. They are, nonetheless, sensitive at the same time. As a result, take special care of them.

 

Trim your toenails short to avoid ingrown toenails, and never trim calluses or corns because this can cause irritation or infection. Also, if your feet are hurting following a long day of walking or a strenuous workout, give them a break.

 

Your feet are the foundation of your body, which is a temple.

We frequently ignore our feet until they become painful. However, taking care of your feet on a regular basis might help you avoid the agony and anguish that come with injuries caused by neglect. When you take care of your feet, you’ll get more out of them, whether it’s improved athletic performance, more stamina, or simply more attractive toes. If you treat your feet well, they will treat you well.

 

Do you require assistance in locating orthotic options for your foot care requirements? Get in touch with us so we can assist you in finding the ideal match!