Follow our simple steps to help keep your feet in tip-top shape and reduce your risk of developing any problems.
1. Wash your feet every day
Use warm, soapy water and take care to dry your feet well, especially between your toes - this will help to prevent fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot.
2. Keep your feet moisturised
If the skin on your feet is dry, put moisturiser on your feet before you go to bed, avoiding between the toes (this can lead to fungal infections).
3. Wear the right footwear
It’s important to make sure your shoes are the right size for your feet. Buy footwear in the afternoon when your feet are at their largest. Get your feet measured if you are unsure of your size. While at home for longer periods of time, try to avoid unsupportive footwear such as slippers.
4. Check your feet regularly
Giving your feet the once over every week will help you to spot any possible problems quickly.
5. Pay attention to your socks
Wear well-fitting socks and change them every day to avoid sweaty feet. Elmscroft sell a good selection of comfortable socks to suit your needs.
6. Trim your toenails
Use proper nail clippers - and cut them straight across, not too short and not down at the corners, as this can lead to ingrowing toenails. If you can’t cut your nails, try filing them once or twice a week instead.
7. Rotate your shoes
Try not to wear the same shoes two days in a row, to reduce your chances of developing a fungal infection.
8. Do regular calf stretches
Get into a routine of doing these every day to keep your feet supple.
9. Vary your heel height
Keep high heels for special occasions, as regular use can damage your feet.
10. Book a regular check-up with Elmscroft
Keep your feet healthy with a regular check-up assessment, where we can give you advice about your foot care, gait analysis and on the best footwear for you and your family.
Source: The Royal College of Podiatry Guide to General Footcare