Our feet are quite often one of the most neglected parts of our bodies, and yet we put them through so much each and every day. We cram our feet into ‘skyscraper heels’ and rush around whether we’re at work, home or taking the kids to school.

And we rarely give our feet the TLC they deserve. We might paint our toenails and ‘glam up’ our feet for a big night out. But that’s more for vanity’s sake than concerns about our health. It seems that the majority of people don’t pay enough attention to their feet until there’s a problem. So, with this in mind, we’ve compiled this handy guide to help prevent foot problems from developing in the first place. 

1. Wear Shoes that Offer Good Support

We’re not saying that you should throw out all of your favorite high heels. What we are saying is try to wear them in moderation. If you’re going to be on your feet all day, carry a comfortable pair of shoes in your purse. Then when your feet start to feel tired or sore, you can just slip them on and give your feet a well-deserved break.

2. Wash Regularly

Feet are full of sweat glands. In fact, each of your feet has a staggering 250, 000 sweat glands! This is why we cannot stress the importance of maintaining good foot hygiene enough. Wash them regularly and try to wear socks made of cotton, because this will allow your feet to breathe.

3. Dry Thoroughly

If you fail to dry your feet properly, you’re creating a breeding ground for a whole host of nasty bacteria that can lead to some equally as nasty health problems. Pay special attention to drying between the toes. This will help to prevent problems such as athlete’s foot developing.

4. Regular TLC

Feet need to be cared for properly in order for them to stay in optimum condition. So incorporate foot-care into your everyday beauty regime. Trim your toenails and exfoliate to help remove any dead or hard skin.

5. Regularly Examine for Problems

If you neglect to take proper care of your feet, this could lead to a whole host of health problems. Such problems include corns, ingrown toenails, bunions and plantar fasciitis. If you’re concerned about any of these conditions, it’s best to see your healthcare professional or you can visit websites such as www.plantarfasciitishq.com for help, advice and information.

6. Go Shoe Shopping in the Afternoon

This is a really useful tip to know. It’s always wise to go shoe shopping in the afternoon. Your feet tend to swell throughout the day, especially if you’ve been particularly active. If you try shoes on in the afternoon and they’re comfortable, you’ll know they’re a good fit and a wise investment.

Having sore, and aching feet can make you feel pretty miserable. It can stop you from leading an active lifestyle and stop you taking part in activities that you enjoy. So, always remember to look after your feet and your feet will look after you!

Image via flickr