People consider the feet to be the least important part of the body. They usually forget to take care of their feet, so they find methods to care for their skin, hair, and hands. A healthy foot always makes us active and helps improve muscles and strengthen bones.
A man with healthy feet will not fall, and his chances of getting disabled early in adulthood will decrease. Proper foot care will prevent the signs of diabetes and poor blood circulation. Our feet are important as they carry the body weight of muscles, ligaments, and 26 bones. The problems connected with feet are numerous.
There are different types of foot problems, some of which are as follows:
Foot odor, swollen feet, toenail fungus, and heel pain. Foot odor is caused by dirty feet, which is really unpleasant. Bad smell and foot odor can be most embarrassing around a group of people or in an office.
Causes of foot problem and treatment
- Foot odor: Foot odor can be caused by many reasons. It is caused when sweat mixes with bacteria on our skin. When people wear socks and shoes, sweat and bacteria join them, which is the reason for bad foot odor. People who sweat for the whole year face this problem the most. Other causes include stress, certain medications, fungal infections, alcohol and drugs. Women who face hormonal changes during puberty or menopause will likely get foot odor. One should maintain hygiene to avoid this problem. It can be prevented by using creams, disinfecting sprays, and socks made of breathable materials. If one is not relieved, a doctor can prescribe surgery to cut the nerve, causing sweating. One may use home remedies as well. Tea with tannic acid can be used to dry out feet. Soaking feet in tea for 25 minutes may work. One can also use bleach and sodium bicarbonate in warm water to dry out skin and feet. A solution of sodium bicarbonate prevents bacterial growth.
- Toenail fungus: Any body part can be affected by fungal infections. Fungi are present with bacteria, and when they grow, infection occurs. A fungal infection named Onychomycosis affects the nails. Fungi grow in moist environments, and the one already in the body causes nail infection. When we wear shoes and socks, the space given to fungi is big enough for its growth. Those with diabetes, who wear artificial nails, have nail injuries, or have weak immune systems are most likely to develop toenail infections. Nail fungus is quite difficult to treat, but certain ointments and lotions may provide relief. A doctor may also advise some oral antifungal medications like Terbinafine and Itraconazole. It is recommended for those who have diabetes or any other problems. An antifungal nail polish named ciclopirox can be applied to nails if one experiences mild to moderate nail fungus. Some topical medications may not cure nail fungus, but one can take them with oral medications.
A doctor would file the nail surface to diminish the infected nail. When the nail infection becomes more severe and painful, the doctor recommends removing whole nails. The new nail will come in the same place slowly. Surgery and ciclopirox are sometimes performed to treat the nail bed. Another method is not widely known for treating nail fungus with laser or photodynamic therapy, in which intense light irradiates after treatment with acid. One may switch on to home remedies like vinegar and vicks-vaporub. Experts say that vinegar and vicks soak help reduce bacteria growth. One must consult a doctor before using any of the home remedies.
- Swollen feet: People may have swollen feet and ankles for various reasons. It is a very common problem that is often caused by fluid retention. The cause of swelling can be due to injury or any medical problem. A woman may get this problem during her pregnancy days. Any injury on the foot or ankle, from acute to major, can cause swelling. When the ligament holding the ankle in place is stretched beyond its normal range, it may result in a sprained ankle. One must avoid walking or running with swollen feet. Swelling can also be caused by venous insufficiency, in which blood starts moving up the veins from the legs to the heart. An infection may sometimes cause swelling. If one sees a swollen foot or an infected blister, he must seek medical advice.
- Heel pain: Our foot comprises 26 bones, 33 joints, and 100 tendons, and the heel is the largest bone in our foot. Any injury can cause heel pain. A doctor can better diagnose the problem. Wearing shoes that do not fit properly often cause pain. One should rest and limit one’s daily movements. Try to apply ice on the heel for about 10 minutes daily. Avoid hitting the floor hard, as this may enhance heel pain. One can have pain relief medications. If one does not get relief, physical therapy is a good option as it helps to strengthen foot muscles and tendons. Anti-inflammatory medications can be injected into the foot or taken orally.
How to keep feet healthy
One can make use of pedicures, especially those designed for feet. It is a cosmetic treatment of toenails and feet. It helps to make feet look beautiful by cleaning nails, including lower leg and foot massage. It is really helpful in removing all dead skin cells that can cause infection. The exfoliation of feet, especially on the heel, helps make new cells that make feet more beautiful. There are different pedicures, such as French, chocolate wine, stone, and express pedicures. One may opt for any of the pedicures according to his pocket. An express pedicure is one of the cheapest, involving less foot treatment and having toenails treated. In this pedicure, the therapist shapes and files toenails and paints the nail in beautiful colours. A good pedicure always relieves us from stress and comforts the body and mind. There is also a fish pedicure in which a small fish breed named Garra Rufa pedicures feet. The client has to put his feet in a tank full of water, where Garra fish moves at the feet, and all the dead skin cells are removed. This pedicure is comparatively more expensive than others but largely helps make feet smooth and revitalized. Apart from pedicures, one should follow some easy steps to make one’s feet look attractive.
- Try to wash your feet daily using a scrub or body wash.
- Always clean the web in between your toesbefore sleeping.
- Cut the toenails short, as they look pretty.
- Massaging the foot with olive or coconut oil is another good option, as these oils contain vitamin E, which is good for the body and feet.
Final words
Feet should be taken care of just like hair and skin. A beautiful foot always catches the attention of others. One must consult a doctor before taking medication for foot problems like swollen feet and heel pains. Cracked heels, spots, scars, wounds, and cuts make feet look ugly. A pedicure is a good treatment opted by young girls and ladies to make their feet look smooth, soft, and shiny. Today, not only women but men also are conscious about their feet. Follow the best method and make your feet look attractive when someone notices.
Amelia Smith
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