Podiatry Tips

Here are some tips to keep your feet healthy

Don't ignore foot pain

It isn’t normal. Contact us if pain persists.

Inspect your feet regularly

Pay attention to changes in colour and temperature. Look for thick or discoloured nails, which can be a sign of developing fungus. Check for cracks or cuts in the skin. Peeling or scaling on the soles of the feet can indicate athlete’s foot. Any growth on the foot is not normal.

Diabetics should inspect their feet daily for minor abrasions, blemishes, changes in colour or temperature and areas of numbness as early detection greatly improves the chances of successful treatment.

Care for your feet

The best start is to visit an experienced Chiropodist/Podiatrist and have your feet assessed, trimmed, tidied and thoroughly treated. If you have heel pain, hard skin, cracked heels, corns, calluses, verrucas, ingrown toenail or your nails just need a trim, give your feet a treat with professional treatment that will leave you feeling like you are walking on air.

Wash your feet regularly

Wash your feet regularly, especially between the toes, and be sure to dry them completely. Treat your feet to the occasional peppermint footbath.

Use a foot file

Use a foot file to keep hard skin and calluses at bay, but not more than once a fortnight, as this could make your hard skin worse.

Don't cut your nails too short

Don’t cut your nails too short, follow the contour of the toe, and never cut down the sides.

 

Use a foot cream

Use a good quality foot cream regularly to keep skin soft and supple. We use and stock CCS products at the clinic. They offer a wide and effective range of foot care products including a powerfully moisturising Heel Balm for dry and cracked heels.

 

Don't pop blisters

Instead, cut a hole in a thin piece of foam to protect the blister, or cover it with a protective soft gel dressing to prevent infection and speed up the healing process.

 

Wear footwear that doesn't squash your toes

Make sure your shoes fit properly. Buy new shoes later in the day when feet tend to be at their largest. Have your feet measured while standing and if your feet are different sizes, buy shoes in the size of the larger foot. Start by getting your feet professionally measured.

Alternate your footwear

Don’t wear the same pair of shoes every day. When travelling, pack several pairs.

Maintain your shoes

Run-down heels put uneven pressure on your foot, which can translate into pains throughout the body.

Use sunscreen

Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to the tops of your feet.