Feet are the unsung heroes of the body, taking anywhere between 3 000 and 10 000 steps a day, and hundreds of thousands of kilometres in an average lifetime, the equivalent of walking four times around the globe! Yet, when it comes to healthcare, feet are too often forgotten. This World Foot Health Awareness Month, it’s time to put feet first.
Caring for your feet should be as much a part of your daily routine as brushing your teeth or moisturising your skin. With May being World Foot Health Awareness Month, we believe this is the perfect time to ‘step up’ your foot care game and give your feet the attention they deserve. This doesn’t need to be complicated, just incorporating a few simple habits into your daily routine.
Fast Facts About Feet!
- There are 52 bones in both feet – a quarter of the bones in the body.
- Feet have close to 8 000 nerves, with many nerve endings near the skin’s surface.
- Each foot has more than 250 000 sweat glands.
- The average foot is two sizes bigger than it was 40 years ago.
- Children’s feet take on 3x more stress than adults because of constant activity.
- Toenails grow more slowly than fingernails.
How to treat your feet to the love they deserve
Wash Feet Thoroughly
It may sound obvious, but many people don’t pay enough attention to how they wash their feet. Simply letting soapy water run over them in the shower isn’t enough. It’s best to gently scrub the feet, paying attention to between the toes where dirt, sweat, and bacteria build-up. Rather, use warm water, not hot water, as this can dry out the skin.
Moisturise Daily
After washing, it’s crucial to lock in moisture, without leaving the feet wet! Dry, cracked heels are not only unsightly but can become painful and lead to infection if left untreated. A rich, nourishing foot cream such as Kroko’s Foot and Heel Balm is great for hydrating feet. It’s specially formulated for South African skin exposed to harsh weather conditions, leaving feet soft and smooth.
Keep Feet Dry
With thousands of sweat glands in each foot, it’s important to constantly keep feet dry to prevent the risk of viral or fungal infections, as well as unwelcome foot odour. Not to be mistaken with well-moisturised feet, wet feet can attract many challenges. It’s worth taking a change of socks to work or school if sweaty feet become an issue.
Exfoliate Weekly
Dead skin can build up quickly on feet, especially around the heels. Regular exfoliation helps remove rough patches and keeps skin smooth. Once or twice a week, use a pumice stone or foot file on damp skin to slough away dead skin cells.
Keep Toenails Trimmed
Healthy toenails are a key part of foot health. Trim the nails straight across and avoid cutting them too short, as this can lead to painful ingrown toenails. Keep the areas under the toenails clean and dry to prevent fungal infections.
Wear the Right Footwear
Choosing supportive, well-fitting shoes can prevent a wide range of foot issues, from blisters, corns, and bunions to plantar fasciitis. Avoid shoes that are too tight or narrow, and choose breathable materials to reduce sweat and odour.
Inspect Feet Regularly
It’s important to get into the habit of checking for any signs of trouble, such as redness, swelling, cuts, or sores that aren’t healing. Early detection is key to preventing more serious issues. Kroko products can be used to treat several foot challenges, but if the problem persists, contact a healthcare professional.
Your feet are a vital part of your overall health. Regular checks and simple daily care can prevent small issues from becoming major concerns. To find out more about Kroko foot care products, visit www.kroko.co.za or email info@kroko.co.za.
