Think about all the things your feet have to deal with every day! They have to bear the weight of your body every step of the way, while squeezing them into shoes, and standing on them for long periods of time. Your hard-working feet deserve a little more of love than you are probably giving them. Here is what you need to know.
Feet are prone to infections, as wearing socks and shoes can create a moist environment for bacteria and fungi to grow in. (Medical News Today, 2020) However, they can also become infected by walking around barefoot, since foot injuries, such as cuts, are highly probable when the feet are not protected. The ground is full of dangers and sharp objects, which can pierce the skin and create an opportunity for bacteria to enter the body.
Foot infections can be very uncomfortable and painful, making it difficult to walk, affecting your everyday well-being.
There are several types of foot injury that can lead to an infection, including cuts and blisters.
There are things you can do to keep them in their best shape. Here are our 5 tips for keeping your feet healthy:
1. Keep your feet clean and dry.
Healthy feet start with good hygiene. The best way of keeping infections away from your feet is by cleaning them everyday.
Since germs thrive in humid environments, make sure to take the time to dry your feet thoroughly, especially in between the toes.
Also, when wearing shoes, make sure to wear good quality socks that allow your feet to breath, such as cotton socks.
If you know that you will be wearing shoes for a long period of time during the day, it is a good idea to wear socks that can control germs present on the skin of your feet, which can cause irritations. More info
2. Wear appropriate footwear
Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments such as swimming pools, locker rooms, and showers. Regularly visiting these places without proper footwear can lead to a fungal foot infection, such as athlete´s foot.
Fungal infections can also affect the toenails. This causes them to become discoloured, crumbly, and thick.
Hence, by wearing appropriate footwear you protect your feet from getting into contact with fungi, and bacteria, that cause unpleasant infections.
3. Cut your toenails properly
When the toenails are cut unevenly, a toenail could cut into the skin surrounding it, resulting in an ingrown toenail. Bacteria can enter through the break in the skin and cause an infection, which can be very painful.
To avoid ingrown toenails make sure to not let them grow too long, and to cut them straight across. The nails should not be cut in a curved shape.
4. Prevent blisters
Blisters are small pockets of fluid that can develop as a result of friction. They can be a result of not wearing appropriate socks and/or shoes. For example, you can get blisters from wearing shoes that are too tight.
If you get blisters, it is best to avoid picking or bursting them, as this can increase the risk of infection. Use a plaster or pad to cover the blister and prevent it from rubbing against any surfaces or footwear.
To prevent blisters make sure to wear well-fitted shoes and appropriate socks, according to your activity. For example, if you are going hiking, wear breathable and cushion knitted socks that protect your feet from the friction and humidity that cause blisters, such as High-Tech socks.
5. Moisturize your feet
Moisturize your feet every day with lotion or cream to prevent cracked heels, which can be very uncomfortable.
If you already suffer from cracked heels, apply heel balm in the morning to increase
skin elasticity before you start your day, moisturize your heel two to three times a day, and wear shoes that protect your heel.
However, don’t put moisturizer between your toes. You want to keep the skin there dry to prevent infection.
Remember, your feet do a lot of work everyday for you.
So, it makes sense to give them daily attention
to keep them as healthy as possible!