How healthy are your feet?

Quick one! Take a look at your shoes right now.

Many people often don’t realise that ill-fitting shoes aren’t just uncomfortable – they can have an effect on your overall wellbeing.

Wearing shoes that do not fit properly can lead to a slew of pesky issues such as blisters, bunions, plantar fasciitis, and even problems with posture and back pain.

Many foot problems develop slowly over time and you may not connect these issues to your shoes until the damage has become significant.

So, it's essential to wear shoes that provide proper support, have enough room for your toes to move and are suited for the activities you’re doing. For example, sneakers simply aren’t going to cut it for hiking…

Now, let’s get into the health of your feet and see how you can take better care of your precious footsies!

Common concerns

• Taking care of your feet is like doing car maintenance – you need to perform routine checks. Here are some key steps to assess the health of your feet:
• Persistent pain, soreness, or discomfort can be signs of underlying problems. Watch for any sharp, aching or burning sensations.
• Check your feet regularly for any visible deformities such as bunions, hammertoes or unusually high or low arches.
• Healthy feet should have smooth, unbroken skin. Look for calluses, corns, blisters, cracks or ulcers.
• Your toenails should be smooth and free from cracks, discolouration or thickening. Check for signs of fungal infections.
• Persistent swelling can signal circulation problems, infections or other health issues.
• Check circulation by pressing on your toenails and watching how quickly the colour returns. Poor circulation can be a sign of cardiovascular disease or diabetes.
• Stiff toes and feet? That’s poor range of motion and could mean joint or muscle problems.
• Your feet should be warm but not excessively hot or cold. Do you feel constant numbness and tingling? Such signs could point to nerve problems.
• Pay attention to how you walk. Limping, uneven steps or a walk that feels uncomfortable can be signs of foot or ankle problems.
• Not too tight, too loose or worn out – the perfect shoes fit, well, perfectly!

How can I keep my feet healthy?

It always starts with good hygiene.

Use soap and water to clean your feet, especially between the toes. Dry your toes thoroughly to prevent fungal infections. Apply a good quality moisturiser to prevent dry, cracked skin, but not between the toes.

Just like clothes, you want shoes that fit well. They should give your feet good support. Try to avoid wearing the same pair of shoes every day. You want your shoes to have time to air out and reduce the risk of fungal infections. Cut your toenails straight across and avoid cutting them too short to prevent ingrown toenails.

As with many health issues – prevention is better than cure. Treat minor problems like blisters or calluses and go to your doctor if you’re having persistent or severe issues, especially the ones we mentioned above.

Also, exercise regularly to keep your feet in top shape. Toe curls, heel raises and ankle rotations are all nifty little fitness helpers to strengthen your feet and ankles. Staying active not only boosts your overall fitness but also improves circulation, which is vital for maintaining healthy feet. So, lace up those sneakers and get moving to ensure your feet stay strong and resilient!

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, or using any medication.