3 Do’s and a List of Don’ts to Maintain Happy, Healthy Feet

Our feet carry us through life. They endure countless steps and support our every move, yet we often neglect their care until problems arise. But at My Chicago Foot Expert, we want to change this fact. Our first order of business: writing an article that provides the basic rules for foot health. Here we go.

Do’s for Healthy Feet

Do: Stay Active

Every jog starts with tied shoes. Foremost, choose supportive footwear that fits well, provides good arch support, and has ample toe room for your most ambitious athletic feats. Regular exercise, including walking, strengthens your feet, improves circulation, and staves off serious foot and ankle conditions.

Do: Prioritize health and hygiene.

Speaking of exercise, excess weight puts stress on your feet and increases the risk of conditions like plantar fasciitis and arthritis.

But without hygiene, fungus could be right around the corner. Prioritize foot hygiene by washing your feet daily with soap and water, drying them thoroughly, and trimming your toenails straight across to prevent ingrown nails.

Do: Stay Vigilant

The message: try, even just a little. Regularly inspect your feet for any changes in skin color, temperature, or sensation, as well as any cuts, blisters, or sores that aren’t healing properly. Also, pay close attention to any foot pain or discomfort so that you can catch minor issues from escalating.

And don’t hesitate to seek professional help from a podiatrist for any concerns you may have! Coming up: the real “don’ts.”

Don’ts for Foot Care

Well, there’s a laundry list of them. Here are the most salient:

• Self-treat without proper knowledge: Avoid self-treating foot conditions with over-the-counter remedies or home remedies without consulting a healthcare professional.
• Walk barefoot in public areas: Protect your feet from infections by wearing shoes in public showers, locker rooms, and pool areas.
• Wear the same shoes every day: Give your shoes time to air out and alternate between different pairs to reduce the risk of fungal infections.
• Share footwear with others: Avoid sharing shoes or socks to prevent the spread of fungal infections.
• Delay seeking treatment: Early intervention is necessary for managing foot conditions effectively and preventing complications.

Contact the experienced team at My Chicago Foot Expert by calling (773) 561-8100 or by clicking here to book an appointment with Cook County podiatrist Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM, in our modern, comfortable Ravenswood location today.