Why you should give your feet a treat

Provide your feet with the gift of health because your feet are undeniably your simplest and safest mode of transportation. They provide you with support and freedom. Did you know that your feet are subjected to a number of “stressors” and must take on countless challenges? Choice of footwear and foot hygiene are among the many factors that influence foot health.

You don’t need an expensive spa treatment to take care of your feet. Spending just a few minutes a day on foot care and choosing the right shoes can keep you free of problems that may lead to pain and even disability.

Here are a few tips about foot care:

* Maintain excellent hygiene: Make a point to wash your feet and between your toes carefully and regularly. Be sure to dry feet completely, including between the toes. This wash-and-dry system lessens problems such as athlete’s foot, odor, bacteria and fungus.

* Use a gentle soap, rinse your feet well after washing them, and dry them before putting on your socks.

* Moisturize your feet after washing. Apply quality moisturizer before going to bed, basic lotions and creams are fine.

*Alternate the shoes you wear each day. That may mean having two pairs of your favorite everyday style, but shoes need time to air out to avoid triggering foot odor or infections. Change socks or stockings more than once a day. If you have a problem with smelly feet, soak them in a mixture of vinegar and water. *Wear well-fitting shoes; your feet should not hurt. Tight shoes can worsen and distort toe shape

and cause painful foot growths. If you wear high heels, choose heels that are wide, stable and no higher than two inches. Toe boxes should be wide. Do not wear high heels every day. They are bad for your feet and for several other parts of your body.

* Flip-flops and completely flat shoes don’t provide arch support. Neither does walking barefoot. Women are especially prone to developing flat feet, which can lead to other foot problems. To keep feet strong and healthy, minimize the amount of time you wear shoes that lack supportive arches.

* Trim your nails regularly, but don’t cut them too short to prevent ingrown toenails.