Feet and toe-nails are the most negligent parts in our body- they support us in all our endeavours. They support our weight while walking and standing, they get bruised, cracked, hurt and blistered as well, without receiving the care that our arms and face receive.
Care for feet and toe-nails are important not only for hygiene, but also for our well-being and for beautiful feet. Here are the reasons why feet should be cared upon intensively.
Common Foot Problems include:
Bunions: bumps around the main joint of the big toe.
Verrucas: circular areas of hardened skin on the base of the foot and between the toes. They are a highly contagious viral infection.
Corns and Calluses: accumulation of dead skin at pressurized areas and appear as hardened thick skin that can be very rough to touch.
Hard Skin: hard skin accumulates when the feet and footwear has a friction. If left untreated, heels can crack and can bleed.
Foot Odours: smelly feet are the most prevalent foot disorder, caused by poor foot hygiene.
Athlete’s Foot: a highly contagious fungal infection that requires treatment from an anti-fungal preparation.
Toenails: toenails are crucial in protecting the ends of the toes, and also in the general appearance of feet. Improper trimming can cause the nails to become embedded in the toe and nail bed, causing ingrown that are quite painful.
General Foot Care:
Regular washing, properly drying between the toes, moisturizing and wearing appropriate footwear are the general steps to be followed regularly to follow good foot hygiene and to keep them away from any foot problems.
1. Wash your feet daily with soap and warm water. Also scrub/exfoliate them twice-thrice a week to remove the dead skin cells.
2. Moisturize the feet daily- but be sure to not over moisturize so as to avoid fungal growth between the toes.
3. Choose proper sized footwear for the occasion.
4. Opt only for cotton socks that will help the feet breathe and absorb the sweat that is produced during the day.
5. Keep your feet dry, especially between the toes before you wear socks. Dust an anti-bacterial/ anti-fungal dusting powder to keep the feet dry.
6. Trim your toe-nails regularly and shape them using a filer.
7. Go for a regular pedicure either at home or at a salon- which will help in buffering the nails and keep foot clean.
By: Archa Dave
