Top tips to care for your tootsies
We can all agree sore feet are no fun at all! Have you experienced these?
Blisters
Fluid-filled “bubbles” just below the surface of the skin caused by friction, burns and some illnesses.
Calluses
Hard skin on the feet caused by friction (often from incorrectly fitting shoes!)
Corns
Smaller, more concentrated areas of hard skin with a “core”.
Bunions
Bony lumps at big toe joint (formed when the joint moves out of position).
Simple care tips can go a long way
- Foot files – soak your feet then slough away hard skin
- Heel and foot balms – specially designed to moisturise the feet
- Blister covers and plasters – help reduce further friction
- Corn sleeves and plasters – help protect against infection and discomfort
I always forget! Why is foot care important?
Let's count just a few of the reasons:
- Sore feet impede movement and make everyday life more difficult.
- Foot care is important both for comfort and for healthy ageing (imagine not moving regularly because your feet hurt?)
- Some conditions can lead to others. For example, bunions can contribute to corns and calluses.
- Having painful corns and calluses can increase our falls risk and alter our gait.
What else can I do at home?
Do:
- Thoroughly dry your feet after washing them
- Check for changes, including redness, cuts or blisters
- Hydrate with a rich moisturiser
- Cut toenails straight across (rounded edges encourage toenails to grow inwards)
- Ask a carer or loved one to support you if you cannot easily see or reach your feet
Don’t:
- Share foot care items, such as pedicure tools
- Perform DIY “surgery” on ingrown nails or other concerns
- Wear too-tight shoes
- Hide discoloured or cracked nails under polish (ask your Pharmacist about the cause instead)
- Ignore swelling, pain or discomfort
What else can I do at home?
Do:
- Thoroughly dry your feet after washing them
- Check for changes, including redness, cuts or blisters
- Hydrate with a rich moisturiser
- Cut toenails straight across (rounded edges encourage toenails to grow inwards)
- Ask a carer or loved one to support you if you cannot easily see or reach your feet
Don’t:
- Share foot care items, such as pedicure tools
- Perform DIY “surgery” on ingrown nails or other concerns
- Wear too-tight shoes
- Hide discoloured or cracked nails under polish (ask your Pharmacist about the cause instead)
- Ignore swelling, pain or discomfort
Get support
Ask your Pharmacist for advice on foot care, and products for comfort and support. If you have diabetes, check your feet daily and regularly see your GP or podiatrist as part of your diabetes management.