**This is a collaborative post
Our feet are, quite literally, the foundation of our everyday life. But far too often, we’ll take them for granted – that is until we develop blisters, sores, unexplained pains or, heaven-forbid, a bunion or two!
But it’s really easy to take care of these precious assets (regardless of how ET-like your toes may be!).
So, here are some top tips on how you can keep your feet looking and feeling great:
Wash, Dry and Moisturise
Firstly, keep your feet clean by taking care to wash them every day. Granted, I’m not saying you don’t shower every day, but I think quite a few of us are guilty of neglecting to scrub this area when we’re washing.
Afterwards, make sure they’re thoroughly dry before you put socks and shoes on. If those areas in between your toes aren’t dry properly, this increases your risk of developing nasty fungal infections – e.g. athlete’s foot.
Once dry, give them a good moisturise but avoid those bits you’ve dried in between your toes. Remove any calluses or hard skin with a foot file or pumice stone, being careful not to overdo it or this will encourage your skin to grow back even tougher than before.
Get the Right Footwear
Your foot comfort is ruled by your footwear, and no matter how trendy a pair of shoes may be, they could be doing you more harm than good.
For example, if you like to wear heels at work, try to change into these when you get into the office, opting for flat, comfy shoes on the commute. Also, try to vary the height of your heels if you can, switching between high, medium and low as often as possible. Limiting how much time you’re in high heels will do your feet the world of good.
And when you are shopping for shoes, try to do this in the afternoon.
Why?
Because as the day goes on, your feet will grow and swell. So if they fit in the afternoon when your feet are at their largest, your shoes should fit comfortably all day long.
You might need to invest in some new shoes if you’re pregnant too – my feet grew a whole size when I was pregnant with Toby, and took quite a long time to shrink back after he was born!
Wear Flip-Flops Wisely
Flip-flops may be your footwear of choice during the summer months but they’re not recommended for ongoing wear. This is due to the lack of support they provide you with, which may cause heel and arch pain if you’re wearing them extensively.
Nevertheless, when you’re visiting the swimming baths with your kids, or you’re in a communal changing area in a gym or hotel, flip-flops are a must-have for reducing your risk of catching verrucas and athlete’s foot.
Armed with the above tips, you and the kids should enjoy healthier, happier feet that keep you walking toward your goals in life.