How to Maintain Proper Foot Hygiene
Feet carry much responsibility and can develop issues like dryness, odor or infections when neglected. If you’re an athlete, constantly on your feet or trying to stay comfortable as you age, foot hygiene and care are crucial for keeping you active and pain-free. A thoughtful foot care routine can reduce concerns and keep your feet looking and feeling their best.
This article discusses how to take care of your feet using simple regular habits.
Basic Foot Care
A consistent daily foot care routine protects you from infections and discomfort. Here’s how to maintain foot hygiene.
1. Wash and Dry Your Feet Daily
Here’s a quick guide on how to clean your feet:
- Use warm water and a mild soap.
- Lather your feet with your hands or a soft cloth. Scrub gently to avoid irritating the skin.
- Rinse well and gently pat your feet using a clean, soft and dry towel.
2. Moisturize and Change Socks Daily
Regular moisturizing keeps the skin hydrated, soft and protected. Look for creams or lotions with hydrating ingredients to prevent dry or rough patches. Apply a foot cream or moisturizer, focusing on the soles and heels. Avoid applying lotion between your toes because it may encourage fungal growth. Wearing clean socks reduces sweat buildup, controls odors and prevents fungal infection. Choose socks made from moisture-wicking materials and replace them daily — or more often if they become damp during the day.
3. Inspect Your Feet Regularly and Trim Nails Properly
Take a moment to examine your feet daily. Look for cuts, blisters, redness or swelling. If you notice something concerning, address it promptly or consult a health care professional. Use clean, sharp clippers to cut your nails across, avoiding rounding the edges or cutting them too short. Regular trimming keeps nails neat and may prevent ingrown nails and infections.
4. Protect Your Feet in Public Spaces
Gyms, pools and locker rooms can harbor fungi and bacteria. Protecting your feet in public spaces reduces exposure to harmful microbes and the risk of infection. Always wear flip-flops or shower shoes in communal spaces. Afterward, wash and dry your feet thoroughly and disinfect your footwear regularly.
Foot Hygiene Products
Foot hygiene is also about using the right tools and products to support healthy, clean feet. Here are some products you can incorporate into your routine.
Foot Soaks
Foot soaks are a soothing way to clean and relax your feet. Warm water softens skin, loosens dirt and reduces fatigue. Adding Epsom salt may improve the soak’s foot-cleansing abilities. The salt relaxes the muscles, relieves foot pain and exfoliates. Soak your feet in a solution of 2 cups of Epsom salts and warm water for 15 to 20 minutes daily. If you’re diabetic, consult with your practitioner before taking warm water soaks.
Exfoliating Foot Scrubs
Exfoliating scrubs containing ingredients that gently remove dead skin cells can leave your feet smoother and softer. Begin by soaking your feet in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes. Then, gently apply the scrub to rough areas and massage for 30 seconds. Rinse well, dry thoroughly and follow with a moisturizer. Avoid over-exfoliating because it can cause irritation or sensitivity.
Antifungal Powders or Sprays and Proper Footwear
Antifungal powders and sprays create a hostile environment for fungi, so applying these solutions to clean, dry feet before wearing socks or shoes can prevent infections. These products are valuable if you spend long hours in enclosed footwear or humid environments.
Poorly fitting or non-breathable shoes can cause blisters and structural issues. Select shoes that fit well and provide support for your arch and heel. Look for materials that allow air circulation, and rotate your shoes to give each pair time to air out between uses. If possible, use insoles designed to wick moisture away from your feet.
Toe Separators and Orthotics
Toe separators are helpful for people who experience overlapping toes, bunions or hammertoes. They keep toes aligned to reduce friction and prevent discomfort. Athletes and people with foot issues can benefit from including these devices in their routines. You can wear them while resting or wearing wide, comfortable shoes. Orthotics provide better weight distribution and reduce friction, which can improve posture and foot health.
Foot Care for Athletes
Here are some foot hygiene practices athletes can follow.
Prevent Blisters and Calluses
Blisters result from friction, often caused by poorly fitting shoes or repetitive movements, while calluses develop as the skin’s response to continuous pressure. Here’s how to address these conditions:
- Blisters: Invest in sports-specific shoes that fit well and provide adequate support. Check that there’s enough room for your toes. Use foot balms or anti-blister patches in areas prone to rubbing.
- Calluses: After soaking your feet, use a pumice stone or foot file to gently reduce thickened skin. Moisturize to keep the skin supple.
Practice Post-Workout Hygiene and Schedule Regular Checkups
After a workout, your feet are often sweaty and tired and need care. Wash your feet with mild soap and warm water. Pat your feet dry and take a moment to check your feet for any signs of blisters, cuts or redness. If you notice any issues, schedule a visit with a podiatrist. They will examine you and provide tailored products and advice to treat and prevent problems.
Foot Hygiene for Older Adults
For older adults, foot care is about preserving independence and preventing health complications. As we age, circulation slows and the risk of foot-related issues increases.
Manage Corns and Calluses
To manage corns and calluses:
- Soak your feet in warm, soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Use a pumice stone or foot file to remove excess buildup gently. Avoid over-filing because it can irritate the skin or cause injuries.
- Apply a rich moisturizer and wear well-fitting shoes with ample cushioning.
If corns or calluses become painful or show signs of infection, consult a podiatrist. Older adults with diabetes or circulatory issues should avoid self-treating and seek professional care.
Improve Circulation and Protect Against Cold and Injury
Engage in gentle exercises to stimulate circulation. Gentle movements can improve blood flow and flexibility. When resting, prop your feet on a pillow to encourage blood flow. Avoid sitting with legs crossed for long periods because it can restrict circulation. During colder months, wear insulated socks and lined shoes. Avoid walking barefoot on cold surfaces and opt for nonslip supportive shoes to improve comfort.
Lastly, routine visits to a podiatrist are crucial for older adults with diabetes or arthritis. A podiatrist can assess foot health, trim nails safely and treat other foot conditions.
Why Foot Care Is Important
Feet endure constant pressure, sweat and other elements that may make them susceptible to issues if neglected. Regular foot care can protect you from several common conditions and keep you active and pain-free.
Reduces Fungal and Bacterial Infections
Athlete’s foot and toenail fungus are among the most common foot fungal infections. Fungal infections thrive in warm, dark and moist environments. They start as mild itching or peeling but can escalate to blisters and cracks if untreated. Fungal infections are uncomfortable and contagious. They can spread to other areas of the body or people and create a cycle of reinfection in households or athletic teams.
Cuts or wounds can become entry points for bacteria. A common bacterial infection is cellulitis, which presents as redness, swelling and warmth. The infection can spread to deeper tissues. Washing feet daily and drying them thoroughly disrupts the conditions in which fungi and bacteria grow.
Prevents Ingrown Toenails and Dry, Cracked Skin
An ingrown toenail occurs when a nail grows into the surrounding skin, often because of improper trimming or tight shoes. Keeping nails clean, trimmed and filed can prevent ingrown nails. Cracks provide an entryway for bacteria and fungi. Regular skin hydration can prevent cracks, reduce discomfort and protect feet from infections.
Helps You Manage Diabetes-Related Complications
For people with diabetes, foot hygiene is crucial to prevent ulcers or infections. Daily inspections, washing and moisturizing protect the feet from harm and allow early detection of complications.
Contact Foot & Ankle Surgical Associates for Your Foot Exam
Foot & Ankle Surgical Associates’ experienced team of podiatrists offers comprehensive foot care tailored to your lifestyle and needs. Our state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and treatment help us uncover any health issues or concerns. We treat fungal infections, provide diabetic foot care, address sports injuries and more. Book an appointment today.
Linked sources:
- https://diabetes.org/about-diabetes/complications/foot-complications
- https://fasafw.com/blog/how-to-combat-smelly-feet/
- https://fasafw.com/blog/how-to-properly-and-safely-trim-your-toenails/
- https://fasafw.com/podiatry/ingrown-toenails/
- https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/prevent-another-nail-infection
- https://www.e-jhpc.org/journal/view.html?doi=10.14475/jhpc.2021.24.2.109
- https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?setid=f7309f4a-f1f5-420e-bfc7-fb4495a5afba
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10506818/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547752/
- https://fasafw.com/blog/the-importance-of-choosing-the-right-shoe/
- https://fasafw.com/foot-ankle/custom-orthotics/
- https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/004006.htm
- https://fasafw.com/blog/the-importance-of-stretching-in-reducing-exercise-induced-foot-and-ankle-injuries/
- https://www.consumerreports.org/health/health-wellness/smarter-is-it-bad-to-sit-with-your-legs-crossed-a4998820616/
- https://fasafw.com/foot-ankle/vionic-shoes/
- https://fasafw.com/foot-ankle/foot-ankle-surgery-centers/
- https://fasafw.com/podiatry/foot-fungal-infection-doctors/
- https://www.cdc.gov/ringworm/signs-symptoms/index.html
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549770/
- https://fasafw.com/podiatry/ingrown-toenails/
- https://fasafw.com/podiatry/diabetic-foot-care-doctors/
- https://fasafw.com/about/podiatry-team/
