Now the temperatures are climbing, the feet are starting to emerge from shoe hibernation into sandals. This can be a stressful time for some of you, who would rather hide your feet all year round! What can you do to start loving your feet a bit more?
Moisturise
Moisturise! Dry skin needs moisture. Don’t file your skin if it is dry, moisturise it. Try a cream which contains a high concentration of glycerine and urea, particularly if you have any areas of hard skin, which this will also help to deal with. Best time to apply is after your shower or bath, particularly as washing dries out our skin. If you are moisturising your dry, peeling skin and it doesn’t seem to be getting better, you may have a fungal infection. If this is the case come to see a podiatrist who can diagnose what is happening with your skin.
Alternatively, if you find your feet are on the sweatier end of the spectrum, and wearing sandals can be slippy, try antiperspirants on them before bed. This is the best time to apply as it blocks the sweat glands whilst asleep. You can use anything you currently use for armpits, but if you require something stronger, try Dirclor, which is available from pharmacies.
Footwear
Footwear. Be careful what you wear. Unstable sandals which don’t hold onto your feet can be a risk for walking, and are a problem when driving. If you are found to have an accident whilst wearing flip flops and these are deemed to be the cause, you may be liable for any costs. Keep a secure pair of driving shoes, such as lace up trainers, in the car. For everyday walking, try sandals which have adjustable velcro straps, such as walking sandals from outdoor shops. The gripping of your toes caused by slip on sandals can lead to muscle fatigue in the small muscles in the arch. This can then lead to arch and heel pain by the beginning of autumn.
Toenails
Toenails. Thickened, distorted toenails can be an embarrassment when wearing sandals, but they needn’t be. A podiatrist will be able to diagnose what is causing the problem. If it is a fungal infection, the can be treated. Even if it is just damage, treatment can be done immediately in the clinic to make nails shorter and flatter, enabling easier home maintenance. If you have a damaged toenail, you may also like to consider nail reconstruction. This is a temporary aesthetic procedure to create a fake nail to match the rest of your nails, which lasts for two months. It can however be repeated throughout the summer, to keep them looking their best during the sandal season.
Whatever your foot problem, your podiatrist will have seem it before, be unfazed by it, and have solutions for you. Please don’t be embarrassed to book an appointment to start your journey towards healthier, happier feet today.
