Foot Health

You know the saying “I know “x” like the back of my hand,”?

… Did you just look at your hand to make sure you knew what it looked like?

Your hand is something that you see, everyday. Multiple times, actually.

Now think about your feet (I know, gross, but hang in here with me for a second…)

You probably haven’t seen the bottom of them in… ever?

Stop avoiding foot issues and start maintaining good foot health - daily.

I used to think this was just something for “old people” to be concerned about. Shocker - it’s not. It’s something we all need to care about because it’s easy for a small laceration to grow an infection and become a huge issue!

Changes can occur during the day of which you may not be aware, so it is best to add foot “inspection” to your daily evening routine. For most people, you will need a hand held mirror to complete the visual part of the foot inspection, as most people find it difficult to look at the bottom of one’s own foot.

Be sure to follow all instructions from your health care provider to keep your feet in the best possible health. Here are a few ways you can take better care of your feet:

First, cleanse the feet and ankles with mild soap and running water. Rinse well and pat dry, including the areas between and under the toes.

Second, inspect the entire foot and ankle for cuts, scrapes or scratches. Be sure to check carefully between and under the toes. Note any areas that are oozing, red, or have foul smelling discharge. If any of these are present, contact your health provider as soon as possible. Minor open areas can be treated at home as your health care provider has recommended in the past for other minor cuts or scrapes.

Third, check for blisters, corns, callouses, warts or other bumps or growths. Do not try to remove these on your own, and any blister should be left intact. Note any areas that feel unusually warm or cold to the touch, as this can be a sign of infection or poor circulation, respectively. Note any areas of discolored skin (persistent redness, blueness or black areas) as this can be a sign of infection or an indication of a larger circulation issue and should be checked by your health care provider.

Fourth, is the skin of the feet or ankles dry or flaking? Are calluses cracked or fissured? Calluses should be addressed by your health care provider, and should never be trimmed, shaved or removed except by your health care provider. For dry skin, a mild unscented lotion may be used on the feet and ankles. Do not apply lotion between or under the toes, and if applying to the bottom of the feet be sure to wear non slip socks or slippers to avoid slipping on floors.

Fifth, be sure to inspect toenails. An ingrown toenail can cause pain or infection, so be sure to have your health care provider look at this as soon as possible. Discolored toenails are often a sign of a fungal infection which requires professional treatment.

Foot inspection should become a part of your evening routine, and should not take more than three or four minutes once you have practiced the routine a few times!