Don't Neglect Your Feet
By Paul Rothbart
Staying healthy involves taking care of the body and its individual parts. Some parts, such as the teeth, require specialized care. There is one body part that needs a little extra attention that many people overlook, perhaps because it's the farthest from their eyes. Healthy feet are important and just your daily shower is not quite enough to take care of them. Feet spend a lot of time confined in shoes, usually in socks too. They bear the full weight of your body when you are standing and absorb the shock of landing when you walk, run, or jump. That's a fair amount of abuse. Give them the care they merit. Here are some tips for healthy feet.
Keep Feet Clean and Dry
If you're like many people, you probably just give your feet a quick swab with a washcloth and then rinse them in the shower. Some people don't even do the swab. Feet should be cleaned carefully. Use a gentle soap and wash the entire foot. Don't neglect the bottom and be sure to get between the toes. After washing, dry them carefully and thoroughly, getting every area. Wet feet inside of shoes tend to grow fungus. It is all too easy to get athlete's foot which is unhealthy and irritating.
Trim Toenails
Letting your toenails grow too long can be problematic. They can get caught in socks and partially torn off. This can lead to pain and ingrown toenails. Give them a trim every other week with a good pair of nail clippers. If you like that sort of thing, treat yourself to a pedicure periodically. Just because they are usually hidden, doesn't mean toenails don't need care.
Wear Shoes That Fit
Shoes that don't fit properly can cause all kinds of harm to your feet. If they are too big, your feet will slide in them, rubbing against the sides. This can cause painful blisters that can make walking difficult or become infected. Shoes that are too tight can be painful, as well as cut off circulation which can cause damage. When buying shoes, always try them on. Don't count on your size being right. Shoe brands can run differently in size. Have a qualified person measure your feet to ensure a good fit. Walk around the store in them to make sure they are comfortable when in motion. Good shoes are a necessity, not a luxury.
When it comes to being healthy, you want to take care of your entire body from your head to your toes. Give those feet the care they need and they will keep you active and free from pain.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in St. Paul, Minn.