Many people go about their daily life without giving much thought to their feet until something goes wrong. We are careful to shower, brush our teeth, and generally care for our physical health, but often our feet get the raw end of the deal. Taking our foot health for granted may be common but caring for your feet can actually improve your overall health. Many health conditions have symptoms that show up in our feet, like neuropathy, toenail fungus, and more. Below we have included five steps toward proper foot health by daily care and maintenance.
What Is the Best Way to Take Care of My Feet?
The top five things you can do to take care of your feet are included below.
- One of the most important things you can do to help your feet stay healthy is to choose proper footwear. This includes following the following steps.
- Choose supportive footwear that is roomy enough for your feet. Many people have one foot larger than the other. If this is you, be sure to choose footwear based on your larger foot. Your longest toe should be at least one-half inch from the end of the shoe when walking. Your feet should also have room above them and not be pressed into the top of the shoe.
- Check your footwear often for wear and tear. If you see signs of breaking down, replace or repair the footwear to retain its original supportive state.
- Never share shoes with someone else.
- Keep your feet clean and dry, wear fresh socks every day, and regularly wash and dry them. If your feet sweat, let them air out before putting socks or shoes on again. Avoid soaking them, as they may dry out. If you do a foot soak, be sure to apply a moisturizing lotion or cream to your feet after they are fully dry. Do not apply lotion between your toes, as this can cause infections or fungus.
- Trim your toenails straight across with a nail clipper. Refrain from using scissors or other utensils for this job. Toenails should never be rounded (as is often done to fingernails) as this can cause painful ingrown toenails. Toenails should not stick out over the end of the toes.
- Check your feet daily for cuts, bruises, calluses, or any other abnormality. If there is something concerning, make an appointment with your foot doctor and seek treatment. Getting help sooner than later could be the difference between a quick fix and months of treatment.
- See a podiatrist for a foot wellness checkup every year. Just as a physical every year keeps you up to date on how your body is functioning, seeing a foot doctor regularly can keep you up and on your feet.
How to Find A Foot Wellness Podiatrist in New York City (NYC)
If you are searching for a foot doctor in New York City or would like more tips on proper feet health at home, Best Foot Doctor is here to help. Give one of our offices in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens a call today to schedule an appointment