DO’S AND DON’TS FOR FOOT HEALTH

YOUR FEET ARE THE FOUNDATION OF YOUR BODY, AND TAKING GOOD CARE OF THEM IS ESSENTIAL FOR OVERALL HEALTH AND WELL-BEING. TO HELP YOU MAINTAIN HEALTHY FEET, WE’VE COMPILED A LIST OF DO’S AND DON’TS THAT YOU SHOULD FOLLOW.

Your feet are the foundation of your body, and taking good care of them is essential for overall health and well-being. To help you maintain healthy feet, we’ve compiled a list of do’s and don’ts that you should follow. Here are a few DO’s: 

  1. DO choose comfortable shoes with adequate support to prevent the development of chronic conditions and injuries  like plantar fasciitis, arthritis, tendinitis, stress fractures, and blisters. Choose properly fitting shoes that match the shape of your feet and have enough room for your toes to move freely. 
  1. DO keep your feet clean and dry to avoid fungal infections such as athlete’s foot. Wash them daily with soap and water while ensuring that you dry them thoroughly especially between the toes where moisture can accumulate.
  1. DO use a toenail clipper with a straight edge to guarantee your toenail is cut straight across. Avoid manicure scissors which can increase the likelihood of ingrown toenails.
  1. DO use a rubber cuticle pusher to gently push back cuticles.This stimulates growth of the toenail by encouraging new cell growth around the nail bed.

And here are a few DON’Ts: 

  1. DON’T wear shoes that are too tight or narrow as they can cause corns, calluses, and worsen bunions and neuromas. Additionally, make sure you discard shoes that are too worn or broken down. Shoes that are easily compressible should be avoided entirely to prevent putting stress directly on your feet!
  1. DON’T cut your cuticles! Cuticles are a protective barrier against bacteria. Cutting your cuticles can increase the risk of infection.
  1. DON’T round the edges of your toenails. Although this shape may be aesthetically pleasing, rounded edges can increase the risk of developing ingrown toenails.
  1. DON’T leave any moisture between your toes. Lotion or cream left in between your toes can break down the skin and promote the development of athlete’s foot or fungal infection. If you excessively sweat, be sure that you are also changing out your socks daily!

Following these Do’s and Don’ts will help maintain the health of your feet so that they can continue to support you in all of your activities. If you or anyone you know have concerns about your feet, contact Align Foot & Ankle Clinic by calling us at (512) 882-4911 or schedule an appointment with Dr. Ho-Ellsworth directly on our website and check out all the state-of-the-art services we offer at our website!