General Foot Care Tips

For All Feet:

• Wash your feet daily. Rinse off all soap and dry thoroughly, especially between toes.

• Trim nails straight across, and not too short. Don't cut out or dig at corners.

• Do not trim, shave, or use over-the-counter medicines to dissolve corns or calluses

• Wear clean socks or stockings, changed daily. Don't wear any that are too short or too tight.

• Wear shoes that fit.

• Don't ignore pain. Painful feet are not normal. Many foot conditions can be cured if you visit a foot care specialist as early as possible.

• Wash your feet daily in warm soapy water. Do not soak the feet as this may cause them to become excessively dry

• Dry your feet thoroughly, especially in between the toes.

• Apply moisturizing cream all over the feet, except in between the toes.

Some people's feet sweat more than others, and are more prone to athlete's foot. These tips may help prevent athlete's foot:

• Wear shoes made of leather or canvas - not synthetics. Sandals are good.

• Switch shoes from day to day.

• Use foot powder.

• See your doctor if severe problems persist.

If you have any high-risk conditions, there are specific things you should do to keep your feet healthy:

• It is vital that you be under the care of a trained foot care specialist
• If you have neuropathy or evidence of increased pressure on the soles of your feet, wear well-cushioned walking shoes or athletic shoes.

• If you have lost some sensation in your feet, be sure to carefully inspect them often to identify any problems early.

• If you have calluses, have a foot care specialist treat them.

• If you have bony deformities such as hammertoes or bunions, you may need extra-wide shoes or depth shoes. In extreme cases, custom-molded footwear may be needed.

• Promptly treat minor skin conditions such as dry skin or athlete's foot to keep them from progressing.

• Regular monthly visits to a trained foot care specialist.