Nursing Foot Care

Proper foot care is an integral part of leading a healthy, happy lifestyle. There are many things that you can do on a daily basis to ensure that your feet never turn into that problem that keeps you from doing the things that you enjoy. These things include:

Examine your feet daily

The first step is always going to be identifying problems before they become serious. This means examining your feet every day, making sure to do it in good lighting conditions. Watch for things like:

• Dry skin
• Breaks or lesions in the skin
• Calluses
• Inflammation around the toenails
• Blisters or bruises
• Swelling

Identifying any of the items listed above can allow a professional like Feet on the Go to attend to the problem before they become serious. As with anything, the sooner it is caught, the easier it is to treat.

Wash your feet and keep them soft and smooth

Wash your feet every day. Soaking is not recommended as it dries out the skin. Make sure to dry them completely afterward, including between the toes. Use an unscented cream on the tops and bottoms of your feet, avoiding applying any in between the toes. Be sure to wear clean dry socks every day. Wear cotton to help absorb moisture and avoid tight elastic tops.

Remain active every day

Walking is a great way to improve your circulation, keep fit and avoid cramps. It can help you reduce your risk of blood clots and keeps your muscles strong and healthy. Walking every day can also help improve your balance, preventing falls.

Ensure that you have properly fitting shoes

Improperly fitting shoes are one of the most common causes of foot problems. Purchasing shoes that fit properly is one of the simplest things you can do to avoid these problems. Below are some tips to be aware of when purchasing a pair of shoes:

• Size:
  Have your feet measured every time you purchase new shoes. Ensure that there is 1/2" of space beyond your longest toe. If one foot is larger than the other, purchase shoes based on the largest foot. Make sure the toe box is deep enough and wide enough, especially if you have hammer toes, claw toes or bunions.
• Material:
  Try to purchase shoes made out of leather or canvas. These materials are the most breathable and they conform to the shape of your foot more readily than synthetic materials. Also ensure that there are no inside seams that could potentially cause blisters.
• Design
  Try to purchase closed toes and backs to provide the most protection possible. Pay attention to the tread, making sure that the grip they provide is satisfactory.

These tips are some very easy things you can do to help improve the overall health of your feet. If you take proper care of your feet, they will reward you with a lifetime of pain free mobility