TIPS FOR HEALTHY FEET

Taking proper care of your feet may help you avoid common foot conditions that cause pain and discomfort. Follow these simple steps in your daily routine and give your feet the attention and care they need.

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your feet stay in good condition.

Keep On Your Toes: Helpful Foot Care Tips

Wash your feet daily and dry them, particularly between the toes.
Inspect your feet with your eyes and feel them with your hands.
Change socks every day. Avoid tight socks/stockings.
Do not use acid preparations without a doctor’s/chiropodist’s supervision.
Wear only comfortable shoes – lace-ups are the best.
Do not use razor blades to trim corns or calluses – use pumice stone and cream.
Avoid plantar warts and athlete's foot by wearing “flip flops” whenever in public pools and spas.
If your skin feels dry use a moisturizing cream with UREA (never between toes).
Multiple layers of clothing are the best way to keep your feet warm.
If your skin is moist, use rubbing alcohol; change socks and shoes often; avoid wearing nylon, polyester, and vinyl; washing with deodorant soap also helps.
Note any changes in skin colour, texture or sensation, and report them to your doctor or chiropodist.
Never soak feet in water temperatures over 45°C or for longer than 10 minutes.
Exercises that use your toes help improve circulation and flexibility.
Calluses can be lessened by wearing cushioning insoles and running shoes with laces.
Corns are caused by pressure from a tight shoe or bony prominence.
Have your doctor check your feet at each visit – he/she may be able to spot a problem before you do.
Treat any blister, cut or abrasion with a mild antiseptic and bandage. If healing doesn’t begin in 2-3 days, consult your doctor or chiropodist.

Foot Muscle Exercises

We strive to equip our patients with everything they need to take good care of their feet. Keep your feet fit and well-toned, especially if you wear orthotics, with the following foot muscle exercises in Stoney Creek:

Pick things up with your toes. Picking up a towel or marbles will strengthen your interossei muscles.
Bend the toes down in a “waving” motion to add strength to your lumbricals and flexor muscles.
Spread your toes wide apart to strengthen your abductor muscles.
Move your feet and toes as if to “paint” the letters of the alphabet. This puts the long flexor and extensor muscles in your leg to use, the tendons of which help hold up the arch.
It is healthy to keep toes wiggling and moving whenever possible. The 4 muscle layers within your feet get lazy while supported in a shoe or an orthotic.