由 home-healthhaven 
Our feet are pretty amazing—they carry us everywhere, bear our weight, and let us run, jump, and dance. But let’s be honest, we usually don’t think about them until something goes wrong or we get hurt. Since they work so hard, foot issues are pretty common.
When something does go wrong with our feet, it can be tough to figure out the exact problem. Most of the time, we just rest and take some anti-inflammatory pills to deal with the pain and swelling, and hope things get better on their own. We might think we’ve just pulled a muscle or have a minor sprain, but sometimes, our foot problems are caused by things we can easily change.
According to Hotter Shoes, a company that focuses on making comfortable footwear, 70% of foot problems come from wearing poorly fitting shoes. So, getting the right advice and picking out shoes that fit well can really cut down on foot issues. They also point out that over 90% of people in the UK will deal with one or more of 300 known foot conditions at some point in their lives, making proper footwear super important.
Here are some easy tips to help you choose the right shoes and keep your feet healthy:
– Skip vinyl or plastic shoes because they don’t stretch or breathe well. Go for shoes made of soft leather with smooth seams to avoid rubbing on your skin and joints.
– Make sure your shoes are comfortable right away and have enough room for your toes to move.
– Avoid ultra-high heels and shoes with pointed toes as they put a lot of pressure on your toes. Wear them sparingly.
– Buy shoes at the end of the day when your feet are slightly larger for a better fit.
The National Health Service (NHS) also suggests wearing flip-flops in public areas like gyms, swimming pools, and hotel bathrooms to avoid catching athlete’s foot and verrucas. However, don’t wear flip-flops all the time as they lack support and can cause heel and arch pain.
Take good care of your feet by washing them daily with warm, soapy water. Dry them thoroughly with a soft towel, especially between your toes. Use a pumice stone to get rid of hard or rough skin, and apply moisturizing cream to prevent dry, cracked skin. A light dusting of foot powder can help keep your feet feeling fresh.
Staying active is also essential for healthy feet. Activities like walking, dancing, swimming, or cycling boost blood flow throughout your body, including your toes. Make sure to wear supportive shoes designed for your chosen activity. If you’re over 60, taking care of your feet becomes even more important, and the NHS recommends seeing a podiatrist every six months. You can find more advice on taking care of blisters, corns, and foot infections through the NHS.
So, don’t forget to give your feet some love every now and then—they do a lot for you and deserve a little TLC!