Good Foot Health Starts with Good Habits
Granted, some aspects of your foot health are beyond your control. Injury, illness, and infection can strike at any time. The good news is that a board-certified podiatrist is always ready to help you with an expert examination, diagnosis, and treatment.
In between visits to the podiatrist’s office, there is much that you can do to ensure good foot health. Here are three tips from Dr. Eric Kosofsky and Dr. Robert Rutstein:
Choose footwear carefully. Skip the high-heeled stilettos. If you just can’t let them go, save them for special occasions. For everyday use, choose a pair of sensible, comfortable shoes with a low, chunky heel and a wide, roomy toe box. Laces or straps will allow for a more customized fit than loafers do. Non-slip rubber soles can help reduce the risk of falling and protect you from the foot and ankle injuries they can cause. If it’s been more than a year since your feet were professionally measured, be sure to go to a store for your next pair and ask the salesperson to check the length and width of your feet. Shoe size changes with age.
Become an expert toenail trimmer. Prevent ingrown toenails by trimming with a clipper, rather than scissors, and trimming straight across. Never round the corners as you might on your fingernails.
Prevent athlete’s foot, toenail fungus, and other infections by practicing good hygiene. Wash feet well with antibacterial soap daily and dry them well, especially between the toes. Air shoes out between wearings and spray them periodically with an antibacterial product like Lysol. Don’t share socks or shoes. Wear sandals on pool decks and in locker rooms, and bring a pair of slippers to your next hotel stay.
Of course, the best habit you can cultivate for foot health is an ongoing relationship with your foot doctor. With years of specialized training and experience, your podiatrist is the best-qualified medical professional to care for this part of your body. Schedule a convenient appointment in our Hartford and Rocky Hill offices today. Call the friendly staff at Hartford Podiatry Group staff at 860-523-8026 or click here to get started.