Happy feet

Strappy, open summer shoes may be the hot trend these days but don’t forget they can cause pain, cramps, infections and dirt on your feet. Fortunately, these simple remedies can get you some sweet relief.

For most of us, the summer season means rummaging through our wardrobes for light and airy items that will allow our skin to breath in the stifling heat. Cardigans are replaced by lawn kurtas, jeans by flowy palazzo pants and boots exchanged for comfortable sandals that look great and prevent perspiration. Unfortunately, summer footwear has a major drawback in that they require much more effort than closed winter shoes.

Yes, you know you’ve been there too. Open sandals and flip flops are the ideal breeding ground for airborne bacteria, fungus and toe-nail accidents. Their lack of coverage exposes your feet to excessive sunlight which not only tans but also scorches skin, resulting in blisters, cracks and foul odour. Therefore, it is important to keep them groomed through the summer. Read on for some useful ways of getting your feet fresh, beautiful and summer-ready! Just a little TLC will save you from a whole lot of allergies, infections and other podiatric problems.

Did you know?

According to social norms and history, small feet have always been the pinnacle of beauty.

In fact, an ancient custom called ‘foot binding’ was prevalent in Imperial China during the 10th and 11^th century which involved wrapping the feet of young girls with painfully tight bindings to prevent them from growing. Today, this practice is linked with disabilities but small feet resulting from it are still a symbol of beauty and status in the Five Dynasties. 

• It is advisable for you to self-evaluate or get your feet checked by professionals regularly to make sure you aren’t at risk of any infections. You should also confirm your shoe size as footwear that is too loose or too tight can cause problems. The podiatrist can help track any cuts, blisters or changes in the colour and texture of your feet and advise you accordingly. This is especially important for those suffering from diabetes or any peripheral artery diseases.

• Research has indicated that cutting your nails in a circular pattern increases the risk of ingrown toenails which can cause pain, swelling and infections. It is therefore better to cut in a square shape.

• Make sure your feet are getting enough exercise as this ensures healthy blood circulation.

• To keep your heels from cracking, massage your feet with warm olive oil or a mild lotion before hitting the sack at night. You can also seal your feet with a pair of light cotton socks to lock in the moisture. But remember to wash your feet thoroughly before this.

• Many of us make the mistake of donning shoes while our feet are wet and this spurs bacteria. You must wait until your feet are completely dry before heading out and if you are visiting a dirty, polluted environment that may expose your feet, wear comfortable, closed shoes for protection.

• A warm foot bath once or twice a week can work wonders for foot hygiene, health and moisture. In a tub of warm water, mix together a portion of olive oil, mild shampoo and sea salts and soak your feet in the tub for about 10-15 minutes. During this, scrub your feet to remove dead skin and cuticles. Try to clean the area between toes properly and give yourself a gentle massage. This will prevent you from having to hit the salon for a pedicure as well.

• If you are getting a pedicure done, enquire about clean instruments, sterilization methods and cross infection control practices at your salon.

• Did you know that smoking can lead to the development of peripheral vascular disease, a serious medical condition that affects the arteries of the lower limbs? Complications from this disease include pain, infection, development of ulcers, swelling, and in more severe cases, gangrenes. 

Common foot problems you should know about

There are a few common podiatric issues that everyone should be able to identify in order to report to a professional on time. These include:

Fungal infections: The inside of our shoes is mostly dark, warm and moist — the perfect, most favorable environment for fungi and bacteria. Fungal infections are characterised by unusual dryness of the skin, itching, red patches, skin peeling and blistering. Keep in mind that they are contagious but over-the-counter, anti-fungal ointments and powders treat the condition effectively. 

Ingrown toenails: This condition occurs when a portion of the nail pierces the skin while growing. This condition is quite painful and can easily be avoided by cutting and filing toenails in a straight line.

Warts: Foot warts are painful growths seen on the skin. These are usually caused by viruses that can be treated using anti-virus topical medications. 

Calluses and corns: Frequently wearing excessively tight, stiff and hard shoes can lead to the formation of calluses and corns of the feet. These are traumatic skin growths around the toes and on the soles respectively. Gentle usage of a pumice stone can effectively reduce the size of the growth, but professional attention must be sought for permanent relief.

Published in The Express Tribune, Ms T, May 31^st, 2015.