Putting your best foot forward

When we stop to take into consideration just how much they do for us, whether it is running around after kids, walking with our four legged furry friends or kicking goals in sports or the workplace, our feet are the foundations to keeping us moving. Here are some simple ways to help make your feet feel their very best.

Choose natural fibres to reduce smell: Our feet are covered in sweat glands, which is why when you kick off synthetic shoes, you can smell them almost right away. Especially now going into the summer months wherever possible choose breathable socks made of natural fibres. If you do notice your feet smelling, air out your shoes each evening, give your feet a thorough cleanse and dry them well.

Dry your toes: One of the easiest ways you can help prevent fungal infections is by drying your toes – paying attention to the space between them. Using a clean dry towel, dry off the space in-between your toes and on the base of your feet after showering. This will limit fungal growth in the area, and can also prevent small cracks that can occur in between the toes if the skin stays too wet for too long.

Apply a moisturiser for dry skin: Moisturising your feet helps to maintain good skin integrity and can help prevent cracks occurring. You may feel more comfortable applying cream before bed or at a time when you are able to put your feet up to allow the cream to really sink in. Avoid rubbing cream in between the toes as it doesn’t usually require any extra moisture. Different creams can work for different conditions so if you are unsure of what to use chat to your podiatrist about the best cream for your feet.

Treat any cuts or wounds immediately but leave the hard skin for your podiatrist: If you develop a blister never pop it, just cover with an appropriately sized dressing. However, if it keeps recurring or you start to develop corns or calluses on your feet, you may have a fit issue with your shoe, or possibly your foot alignment. Your podiatrist will be able to treat the corn or callus and if required assess your foot posture when walking to determine why a pressure area may be developing. From here we can offer ways to redistribute the pressure and provide you with the most functional foot alignment for you to get you moving again.