Save our soles this summer
“These are not designed to be worn all day – just around the pool and at the beach,” warns Dr Rajput. “Unfortunately they can cause foot problems from stress fractures, heel pain – Achilles tendinitis – and also cause toes to curl up excessively as you try to grip for stability during walking.” “It’s designed to immediately ease friction and stop blisters from developing by providing an extra layer to the affected area,” explains Dave Wain, Podiatrist at Carnation Footcare. Alternatively, apply a slick of clear gel anti-perspirant to the areas where your shoes rub – this will control moisture and the gel will reduce friction. “Trim your nails after a bath or shower with a good quality nail clipper, says Julian. “Cut straight along the top and leave about 1mm of white tip. Do not cut down the sides as this can cause in-growing nails. Smooth with an emery board.” “Pedicures can be a serious health risk as everything from the tools, nail files and bubbly foot basins can transmit nail fungus, verruca viruses and sometimes serious bacterial infections,” explains Dr Rajput.
“The standard of hygiene in most beauty salons does not match that of podiatry/chiropody clinics where the instruments have to be medically sterilised.
“Most salons simply use a disinfecting solution which can still allow infections to spread.
“Ensure that your pedicure salon uses disposable foot and nail files, and does not use razors on your feet.” Don’t be tempted to cover discoloured or crumbly nails with nail polish, warns Emma Mcconnachie, a podiatrist from The College of Podiatry.
“Discolouration could be a sign of a toenail infection which should be treated first – or the problem will only get worse. And if you paint your nails a lot, try to have two weeks without polish every couple of months to allow your toenails to breathe so you can check that they look healthy.” People often forget to apply sun cream to their feet but they can receive a lot of exposure if you are wearing flip-flops or sandals. If you are sunbathing on your front, don’t forget to apply sun cream to the soles of your feet. Getting burnt there can be very painful! Bathe them in warm water with a few drops of peppermint oil – then roll the bottom of your foot over a cold water bottle or a Carnation Pediroller (firstaidfast.co.uk).