After enduring a lifetime of service where their sole purpose was to support your entire body weight, it’s no wonder that the natural aging process can be particularly cruel to your feet, which in turn, can threaten your balance and mobility. Furthermore, mature skin loses some of its elasticity, which can potentially develop into foot blisters, infections, and other painful conditions. But don’t waste your time worrying about this, and rather march forward with these 10 quick tips which can keep your feet happy for years to come.
1. The Correct Footwear
First and foremost, always ensure that your foot is hugged by the best shoe for you. When purchasing new footwear, measure your foot for the ideal fit, sometimes sacrificing fashion for a more comfortable cushion, and forgetting high heels all together. When it comes to your trusted old pairs of shoes, occasionally check the grip beneath and replace them before they wear out. Change into your slippers whenever you can, and never walk around indoors barefoot as this could result in an accident.
2. Keep Your Feet Clean
Pamper your feet by washing them with mild soap and lukewarm water every day. Be watchful for dry, cracked patches, and find the right shower foot scrubber for you, effortlessly smoothing down these skin concerns. Apply vitamin E cream for a lasting hydration effect, and only put your socks back on after your feet are completely dry.
3. Keep Your Toenails Short
Always soak your feet in warm water before cutting, as this softens the nails and leaves them much easier to trim. Use a good pair of nail clippers and cut straight across, wary of those sharp corners which could become ingrown. Regular toenail maintenance is essential for comfort, as overgrowth can push against the inside of your shoe, leading to unnecessary pain or other complications.
4. Keep Warm and Dry
Bacteria is known to set up home in damp places, and your feet are no exception. Keep these areas clean and dry with particular focus in between the toes, which will reduce the chance of fungi infecting the insides of any cracked skin. Warm feet are also important for circulation purposes, so put on a clean pair of cotton socks after the drying process.
5. Keep the Blood Flowing
Speaking of circulation, further encourage your blood flow by raising your feet upon a stool whilst sitting. Don’t cross your legs for any lengthy amount of time, and get into the habit of wiggling your toes and rotating your ankles around. For even greater circulation points, why not try yoga or swimming?
6. Listen to Your Cramps
If you regularly find yourself experiencing foot cramp, your blood may be low on potassium, sodium, and magnesium. Get yourself tested, and experiment with mineral-rich diets, loading your plate with bananas, avocados, potatoes, and dark greens. And don’t forget to stretch out your feet every day, by curling your toes or rolling your sensitive spots over a golf ball.
7. Watch Your Weight
As with cramps, a lot of reported foot concerns stem from diet related negligence. If you are overweight, you are more than likely relying on your tendons to maintain your balance, and your whole foot is going to feel that pressure. Speak to your doctor about recommended solutions, which will usually include a change in your food choices as well as regular exercise. Thankfully, these lifestyle alterations will also benefit almost every other aspect of your life.
8. Get Your Sores Checked
If you encounter corns, ulcers, or ingrown toenails, don’t suffer through them, and rather speak to your GP about your options. You should also regularly inspect your feet for any unusual changes yourself, such as discolored nails or newly formed marks, and then get a diagnosis before they potentially develop into anything more serious.
9. Consider Mobility Assistance
If you are struggling to walk or are starting fall more frequently, it may be time to look into utilizing an assistive device. Whether as simple as leaning on a cane, or even giving some serious thought to a wheelchair, converse with your doctor about your concerns, and trust his professional advice to make the best decision for you.
10. Consult an Expert
As with every point above, it is always in your best interest to look towards an expert for guidance. Nail salons will take care of your feet in ways more pleasurable than you can possibly imagine. Your family or caregivers can get a closer look at your feet from angles you are not equipped to. And your medical practitioner will have the greatest knowledge in clearing away any of your persistent issues. Just remember: asking for a little help is the smartest approach in smoothly sidestepping all of your foot and toe woes.
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