Put your feet up

Checking in on your foot health frequently is crucial, but most of us aren’t showing our hardworking feet the love and respect they deserve. Here are some top tips to help you care for your tootsies at home…

HARD SKIN ON THE BOTTOM OF YOUR FEET

Each day for a week, file the area gently, apply heel balm cream before bed and sleep with socks on. If the skin is very hard, do this for two weeks. The skin should feel smoother in seven-14 days.

TINEA

To treat this fungal infection, also called athlete’s foot, wear cotton or bamboo socks and buy an over-the-counter antifungal cream or spray.

MOIST PROBLEMS BETWEEN TOES

Make sure to dry your feet properly after showering, then apply tea tree oil, or another antifungal/antiseptic treatment. Be sure to stretch and spread your bare toes to let the air get to them.

STIFF TOES

Do daily exercises to strengthen foot muscles, such as spreading toes apart; lifting the big toe while keeping the others down; and relaxing the big toe while raising the others. It helps to wear wider, deeper shoes to give toes more space.

VISIT YOUR PODIATRIST

Organise regular check-ups with your podiatrist, as you would your dentist or optometrist. These can be crucial in identifying underlying health issues such as diabetes or heart problems.