Your feet, with 26 bones each, make up a quarter of all the bones in your body. They also contain 33 joints and over 100 tendons, muscles, and ligaments. These parts work together to support your body’s weight and allow for movement, making your feet vital to overall function.

Given the complexity and heavy use of your feet, it’s no surprise they’re prone to various injuries and conditions. However, with proper care, you can significantly reduce the risk of foot problems.

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Common Foot Ailments

Regardless of your activity level, you may encounter a variety of foot issues, such as:

  • Broken bones and stress fractures
  • Bunions, corns, and calluses
  • Conditions like arthritis, cancer, gout, and diabetes
  • Dry skin
  • Foot deformities (flat feet, hammertoes, club foot)
  • Fungal and bacterial infections (athlete’s foot, toenail fungus)
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Sprains and strains
  • Warts

Foot Care Tips and Recommendations

Here are some general foot care tips to help keep your feet healthy:

Choose Proper Footwear

  • Alternate Shoes: Avoid wearing the same pair of shoes every day. Alternate your shoes to give your feet a break and reduce wear.
  • Fit Over Size: Buy shoes based on fit, not size. Feet can change over time, so a different shoe style may require a different size. Try shoes on later in the day when your feet are more swollen, and ensure there’s enough room in the toe box.
  • Replace Worn Shoes: Replace shoes when they become worn out. As shoes lose support, they can lead to foot problems.
  • Wear Activity-Specific Shoes: Choose the right shoes for your activities. For example, wear running shoes for running and cleats for soccer.

Maintain Good Foot Hygiene

  • Wash and Dry: Wash your feet regularly and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes, to avoid fungal infections. Clean feet make it easier to spot cuts, bruises, or signs of infection.
  • Trim Toenails: Cut toenails straight across, avoiding the corners and sides to prevent ingrown toenails.

Don’t Ignore Foot Pain

  • While foot pain after a long day may seem normal, persistent or worsening pain should not be ignored. If pain doesn’t subside over time, see a doctor to investigate the cause and receive proper treatment.

Be Cautious with Home Care

  • Diabetes or Circulation Issues: If you have diabetes, poor circulation, or heart conditions, it’s best to have a healthcare professional manage your foot care to prevent infections.
  • Seek Medical Advice: If you have a foot injury or condition, consult with your doctor before attempting self-treatment. In some cases, untreated minor issues can worsen if not addressed properly.

For additional foot care advice or to diagnose and treat foot pain, consult a skilled podiatrist. Proper foot health is essential for maintaining mobility and overall well-being.