Best Foot Forward
Many of us neglect our feet and dread the prospect of exposing them because of common problems like sweatiness, smelliness, corns, calluses or bunions. With over 125,000 sweat glands on each foot, it’s no surprise that feet produce an eggcup’s worth of sweat each day! Bacteria on the skin break down sweat as it comes from the pores and this releases a cheesy odour as the sweat decomposes. Smelly feet occur when sweat soaks into shoes which don’t dry properly before being worn again.
To help keep feet dry and odour free, wash at least daily in warm, soapy water, dry thoroughly, wipe with cotton wool dipped in surgical spirit and then dust with talc. In addition, change socks daily (choose cotton ones if possible) and alternate your choice of shoes. Using spray anti-perspirant/ deodorant, medicated insoles, and feet-fresh or antibacterial socks will also help, as will wearing leather, canvas or open toe shoes.
Not only are corns and calluses unsightly, they are also very painful. They occur when skin thickens after being exposed to excessive pressure or friction – like ill-fi tting shoes. Whilst corns are most often found on the tops and sides of toes, calluses are usually found on the heel or ball of the foot. Before attempting to treat either condition, fi rst consult with a chiropodist/podiatrist who will help identify the cause and advise you on the
28 best treatment.
A professional is likely to use a sharp blade to remove corns or badly callused areas, but it’s safer for an amateur to use a pumice stone or foot fi le to rub down thick or hard skin, followed by a rich moisturiser such as E45 to soften the skin. Other treatments like corn plasters, rehydration creams, insoles or wedges are also available over the counter, but not all are recommended for all people (e.g. those with diabetes or circulatory problems) so seek advice before using them.
No one knows why bunions occur, though they seem to run in families, are more likely to occur if you have fl exible joints, and are more common in women. Wearing ill fi tting shoes can make them worse, so treatment includes modifying footwear, taking painkillers, and using orthotics such as bunion pads, insoles and toe spacers.
Prevention is always better than cure, and basic hygiene and nail cutting should be all you need to keep your feet healthy, but if you do have serious or ongoing problems, seek professional help. Podiatry is available on the NHS but may be limited. If you choose a private practitioner, make sure they are registered with the Health Professionals Council and are a member of an offi cial chiropody or podiatry body.
To advertise in thewire t. 07720 429 613 e.
the.wire@btinternet.com
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