Improper foot care is a huge contributing factor to foot and ankle problems, especially during the moderately-temperatured and warmer months. From calluses to ingrown toenails to athletes foot, these common foot conditions can all play a big role in causing major discomfort and damage.
In order to prevent any potential foot and ankle issues from developing this summer, the Foot and Ankle Specialists of Illinois have some helpful tips for you.
Keep your feet clean: Dirt and bacteria are the main factors in causing infections, especially to areas of the feet that may be exposed. Having dirty, bacterial infected feet are most likely to happen when you start to wear sandals, flip-flops, or even going barefoot. With these types of shoes, you may also find hard spots, or callused areas, more frequently. It is important to remove these spots to prevent infections, but only with a pumice stone or foot file.
Keep your feet dry: While this may be difficult, especially during the summer and fall when your feet tend to sweat, keeping your feet dry is important to preventing infections. Athlete’s foot bacteria especially like to grow in areas between the toes when there is moisture present, so in order to ensure this is not an issue, be sure to clean and dry all areas on your feet.
Keep your toenails trimmed: Many women, and some men, love to show off their feet during the summer. However, keep in mind when giving yourself a pedicure to carefully cut and keep your toenails cut straight across, not at an angle. By doing this one simple trick, you are greatly reducing your risk of ingrown toenails happening.
Wear the proper shoes: Whether you are working, hiking, or running, it is important to ensure that you are wearing shoes that are appropriate for your activity, as well as shoes that are comfortable and not rough on your feet.
Keep your feet covered: When out in public or using public facilities, such as the gym, hotel rooms, or swimming pools, it is critical that you keep your feet covered. This is effective in preventing your feet from coming into contact with loads of germs and bacteria.
See a podiatrist: If you feel that you are experiencing a foot or ankle concern, be sure to visit your podiatrist right away.
For more information or for help with your foot or ankle needs, contact us today.
