Health to the Tips of Feet

Health to the Tips of Feet

Whether you're slogging through snow and subzero temperatures or scuffing up your feet with summer sandals, the health of your feet can make a significant difference in your quality of life.health to the tips of feet In fact, according to a recent survey by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), foot problems affect the daily activities of millions of Americans.

Comprised of 26 bones, 30 joints and more than 100 muscles, tendons and ligaments, the human foot is both robust and delicate.health to the tips of feet The feet are the foundation of the body, supporting and balancing our weight while enabling us to stand upright, walk, run, jump and dance.

They are also wired up to nerve fibre tracts from the brain that help us balance and walk, and plumbed by blood vessels that lead all the way to the heart.health to the tips of feet And they are one of the first areas of the body to show signs of systemic conditions, such as diabetes and peripheral neuropathy, which can cause pain and numbness in the feet and ankles.

While it is easy to take our feet for granted, a little care goes a long way to keeping them healthy and pain free. Regularly inspecting your feet can help spot issues like cuts, sores and changes in colour, which may indicate an underlying problem such as diabetes or circulatory disorders.

The most important thing to do is keep your feet clean and dry by washing them daily in lukewarm water and drying them thoroughly, especially between the toes. Adding a thick moisturizing lotion daily can help keep skin on your feet soft and supple. But don't use moisturizer on the tops of your feet, and be careful not to apply it between your toes – this can cause fungal infections.

A healthy diet rich in calcium, vitamin D and magnesium is also key to maintaining good foot health. Getting enough of these nutrients can contribute to healthy, strong bones and joints and help with bone density as we age.

It is also important to exercise regularly, preferably on a daily basis. This can help improve circulation to the feet, which in turn can help with balance and foot strength. This doesn't have to be strenuous, but some form of aerobics, walking, jogging or even simply stretching can be beneficial.

Persistent foot pain is a warning sign that something could be wrong and it's important to see your podiatrist if this is the case. The earlier a problem is detected, the more easily it can be treated and prevented.