Step into Spring on healthy feet! The feet are the body’s foundation. Consider these 6 tips from the Environment, Health, and Safety department of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to keep your feet healthy and pain-free:
- Check your feet every day: Look for changes in skin texture, color, and appearance. Use a mirror and be especially observant If you have a condition that can cause poor circulation. Report any changes to your doctor.
- Keep your feet clean: Wash and dry your feet, especially between the toes. Moisture can put you at risk of developing fungal infections such as athlete’s foot. Moisturize if your feet are dry. Use sunscreen if your feet are exposed to the sun.
- Wear the right shoes: Make sure they fit properly, have good support, and aren’t too narrow at the toe.
- Exercise your feet: Using your feet to exercise, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, keeps the muscles strong and improves blood circulation. Stretch your feet to maintain flexibility.
- Work toward a healthy weight: Excess weight can be hard on feet and lead to foot pain, heel pain, stress fractures, and arthritis.
- Visit Your Doctor: If you have persistent foot pain or discomfort. If you have diabetes or a circulatory issue, have an annual foot inspection done with your doctor or a foot specialist (podiatrist).
Additionally, the CDC recommends the following:
- Clip your toenails short and keep them clean
- Change your socks every day
- Assure that any salon you visit for a pedicure sterilizes instruments after each use. Avoid ‘fish’ pedicures.
With the right care, your feet can last a lifetime and carry you on life’s many journeys.
For more information, go to https://ehs.lbl.gov/ or https://www.cdc.gov/hygiene/about/foot-hygiene.html