Healthy Feet Are Happy Feet

By Cynthia Soguero

It has been estimated that over a lifetime, the average person will walk 50-100,000 miles. When our feet are healthy, it is easy to take them for granted. Healthy feet allow us to sustain an active lifestyle. More importantly, feet that are healthy and pain-free contribute to good balance which may prevent falls, a major cause of injury and hospitalization in seniors. Keeping an eye on our feet can provide early warning signals for other health concerns such as diabetes, arthritis, poor circulation and nerve damage.

Many foot problems can be avoided by using some basic foot care techniques. It is important to examine your feet daily. Have someone else look at your feet if you have difficulty seeing them or use a mirror. Check for dry, cracked skin. Look for blisters, cuts, ulcers, or other sores. Observe any redness or tenderness when touching any area of your feet. Check for ingrown toenails, corns, and calluses. Wash your feet every day using warm (not hot) water. Pat feet dry and make sure to dry well between your toes. Keep your feet soft and smooth with an unscented lotion. This will help prevent cracks which can lead to infection. Cut toenails after bathing, when they are soft. You may want a podiatrist or foot care nurse to cut your toenails and reduce corns and calluses, especially if you have diabetes.

Always protect your feet by wearing shoes or hard-soled slippers or footwear. Avoid walking barefoot, even indoors. Avoid shoes that expose your toes or heels (such as open-toed shoes or sandals). These types of shoes increase your risk for injury and potential infections. If you get a blister or sore from your shoes, leave it intact. Apply a bandage and wear a different pair of shoes. Try on new footwear late in the day and wear the type of socks you plan to wear with the shoes. Inspect the insides of your shoes before putting them on to make sure there are no foreign objects or rough areas. Avoid tight socks and choose natural-fiber socks to prevent sweating. Wear special shoes if your health care provider recommends them. Wear shoes/boots that will protect your feet from various weather conditions (cold, moisture, etc.). Make sure your shoes fit properly.

Maintaining healthy feet will help you stay safe, active, and comfortable. Preventative foot care is the best medicine. If you need help with toenail and foot care, please contact your local foot care nurse or your health care provider.

Cynthia Soguero, RN, CFCN

Owner/RN Professional Foot Care

Estes Park, CO

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