Happy Heels: Tips & Tricks To Keep Your Feet Healthy

Corns and Calluses

When your skin is under regular pressure or friction, it will protect itself with an extra layer of skin to toughen up the area. Corns form on the feet when the pressure comes from a bone rubbing up against your shoes; calluses are thickened skin that can form anywhere but are most likely to happen on the soles of your feet. Prevention is the best medicine, so pay attention to the fit of your shoes as a precaution. To treat existing corns and calluses, soak them in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes and use a pumice stone to file away the thickened layer. Moisturize and repeat weekly as necessary.

Bunions

Bunions are caused when your big toe is pressed out of alignment and the bony base protrudes from your foot. Though some people’s bunions are genetic, the majority occur in women who wear narrow shoes and high heels that put pressure on this are of the foot. These shoes should be avoided to prevent bunions from forming, and changing to properly fitted flats can reverse early damage. Icing a painful bunion and treating discomfort with over-the-counter pain relievers can also help. For severe bunion pain, a podiatrist may recommend surgery to realign or fuse the injured joint.

Sweaty Feet

Your feet naturally have thousands of sweat glands, but when sweat builds up in your shoes, sweaty feet can cause odor, infections and a unique discomfort as feet feel clammy. To protect your feet from problems related to the excess moisture, change your socks throughout the day if they are soaked through, consider using wicking athletic socks instead of nylon or cotton. Wash feet daily with antibacterial soap as well. Your podiatrist may recommend antiperspirant wipes for your feet, iontophoresis or even Botox injections to help reduce sweating if needed.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can have many causes, so it’s important to pay attention to physical symptoms so a potentially serious problem doesn’t go untreated. For mild pain due to injury or overuse, elevate and rest your feet as much as possible and avoid activities that increase the pain. Icing your foot for 15 minutes several times a day will also help. If your foot pain doesn’t abate in a day or two, see a doctor for a diagnosis and additional advice on the best course of action for your problem.

Extra Help for Hardworking Feet

If you’re on your feet for most of the day, you might benefit from shoe inserts that provide extra cushioning for your tired feet. Shoe inserts or upgraded insoles can also help your shoes fit better, and they’re especially useful if you need additional arch support. If you’re looking to reduce pain or fatigue, look for insoles designed for comfort, support or pain relief. Many of these have a gel base that cushions your feet from the impact of walking. Always test the insole by standing on it in the store — or better yet, trying it in your shoe — to check for a good fit.

With a little extra attention to foot hygiene and care, you can keep your feet healthy, clean and pain free. You’ll feel much better showing off your feet to the world when the weather is warm, too, so it’s worth the effort to pamper your piggies. When you take good care of your feet, they’ll take good care if you!