Fall Foot Care is as Important as Foot Wear
As fall is approaching, so is the desire to change out of those open toe sandals and switch to trendy closed-toed shoes. Closed-toe shoes can leave our feet susceptible to numerous conditions such as painful corns and callouses, and pesky fungal infections.
When the temperature begins to fall, many opt for a closed toe shoe that offers more protection and warmth. However, that dark and warm place is an ideal place for bacteria to grow and fester. Keeping your feet clean and dry as well as routinely using an antifungal spray can help prevent a fungal problem before it begins.
Picking the right shoe gear is essential for optimal foot health. While those closed toe shoes provide us warmth and protection, they also tend to come with a narrow toe space. Tight footwear can decrease the blood flow to your feet. This makes it harder for your feet to stay warm and can increase the risk of frostbite or a Raynaud’s flare up. In addition, tight footwear can lead to uncomfortable ingrown nails, painful corns and callouses and increased skin irritations or ulcerations.
Some may think that fall foot care is not important, however it is just as important to care for your feet in the colder months as it is during the summer. Colder temperatures means less moisture in the air and less moisture for your skin to absorb. Dry skin is more susceptible to cracking and blisters that can lead to an increased chance of infection. Using a daily moisturizer after a bath or shower allows for the skin to soak the product in better and have a greater overall effect.
No matter the season, or change in weather, routine foot care should be performed year round.
