Your feet always support you, so return the favor.
Your feet are the foundation of an active lifestyle, but odds are you don’t give them proper attention. “As you age, healthy feet become essential for being mobile, active, and safe,” says Dr. Kevin Riemer, a podiatrist with Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. “You need to give them the required care in order to prevent problems, reduce pain, and avoid injuries.”
Foot care should be part of every person’s regular health maintenance.
Keep your feet clean. This reduces the risk of harmful bacteria and can ward off fungal infections like athlete’s foot. Wash your feet every day, and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. The skin of the feet tends to grow thinner and drier with age, so after washing, apply a liberal amount of moisturizing lotion. However, avoid moisturizing between the toes, as dampness here can lead to fungal growth.
Trim your toenails. Cut your toenails straight across, never at an angle on the sides, which may cause ingrown toenails (a condition in which the nail grows into the adjacent skin). Use a toenail clipper larger and wider than one used for fingernails.
Manage calluses. Deep calluses can crack and bleed, causing pain and risking infection. Use a pumice stone or foot file to remove calluses gently. Follow up with moisturizer.
Look for signs of trouble. Examine your feet regularly, including the tops, soles, under the toenails, and in between toes. Look for any changes, growths, or discolorations. If your foot swells or changes color, it could be a sign of poor circulation or even a fractured bone, and you should seek medical care. If you have diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, alert your doctor about red spots, bruises, calluses, and corns. Any mole, freckle, or spot that appears to have changed over the past month could be a sign of skin cancer and should be examined. Your feet need regular exercise, just like any other body part. Performing regular stretches can increase foot and ankle flexibility and strengthen foot muscles to improve balance and reduce the risk of injuries like ankle sprains.
Another means to prevent common foot problems like blisters and heel pain is to invest in quality footwear that can be worn for both exercise and everyday activities.
Visit a specialty running store, as it will offer a variety of styles and hands-on fitting expertise.
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