What Is Routine Foot Care?

When you take care of your body, your body will take care of you. In fact, it’s well known that moderate exercise can help lower your risk of a heart attack. But what about your feet? Our feet are the quiet heroes plodding on day after day without a break. It’s time they received the love and attention they deserve through proper foot care. Here, we’ll discuss what routine foot care is, the benefits, and when it’s time to see your podiatrist.

Routine Foot Care Definition & Examples

We see foot care as a consistent foot hygiene routine. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Many diseases and foot problems can be prevented through healthy personal hygiene and taking care of your feet.”

Routine foot care is when you perform some or all of the following activities on a schedule:

• Trim your toenails
• Clean and soak your feet
• Remove corns and calluses
• Use hydrating lotions
• Perform inspections to spot sores and other problems

Keep in mind, your own foot care “to-do list” may depend on your foot needs. For example, those with diabetes may need to inspect for signs of diabetic foot, such as a change in foot color or temperature. It’s also unlikely that you’ll need to trim your toenails or remove dead skin every day. However, you should make a habit of checking your feet daily, even if you don’t need to perform all of your footcare steps.

Benefits of a Daily Foot Care Routine

Everyday care can prevent— or at least identify— common foot issues, including corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, fungal infections, blisters, and more. This has a positive impact on your body:

Reduces Discomfort

Addressing foot problems early is a proactive step toward reducing discomfort and preventing conditions from escalating. Take, for instance, common issues like plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendinitis. By incorporating a consistent foot care routine, you can alleviate pain and redirect your feet toward a healthier path.

Prevents Tiny Problems From Getting Worse

Routine foot care is a preventive measure against minor problems turning into major issues. For example, ingrown toenails don’t happen overnight. Detecting and addressing the early stages of improper nail growth through regular nail trims can spare you from the need for surgery later on.

Manages Overall Health

Unaddressed problems with your feet can impact your overall well-being. Poor foot posture could throw the alignment of your entire leg off, causing muscle strain and other issues throughout your body. In addition, studies show that foot massages not only relax the feet but also have positive effects on mental health, reducing stress and promoting relaxation. 

Foot Exercises for Enhanced Foot Care

A daily foot care routine is great, but why not add a few foot exercises into the mix? Since you’re already tending to your feet, you can go the extra mile without leaving your bathroom! 

Exercising your feet improves circulation to help prevent problems such as edema and may also help draw your attention to new or emerging pain that could go unnoticed. One great foot yoga exercise is to take a small ball while you are seated and place it under your foot. Then, roll the ball with your foot to massage the muscles and tendons. 

When To See a Podiatrist

Regular checkups can help identify and treat foot problems and offer guidance on proper foot care practices. This is especially true if you are at risk of developing severe foot conditions or already have a chronic issue.

It may be time to see your podiatrist if:

• You notice changes to your feet, such as an ingrown toenail.
• Foot pain occurs or worsens during your foot care routine (or any other time).
• A known problem with your feet is worsening (such as diabetic foot or corns).

A good podiatrist will work with you to help you reach your foot health goals one step at a time.

Get Help To Put Your Best Feet Forward

Feet have it rough, but that doesn’t mean you have to take care of your feet alone. At The Foot & Ankle Group, we’re here to help with everything below the knee so your feet can be their best. Schedule an appointment with The Foot & Ankle Group today.