Foot Health Basics:
A User's Guide to Putting Your Best Foot Forward
Foot Facts
- A quarter of all the bones in the human body are in your feet.
- Women have about four times as many foot problems as men. High geels are partly to blame.
- Walking is the best exercise for your feet.
- The average person takes 8,000 to 10,000 steps a day, which adds up to about 115,000 miles over a lifetime.
April 2006 — In a lifetime, the average person will walk a distance equal to more than four times around the world. Yet, feet don't get much respect for all they do. With 26 bones, 33 joints and 126 ligaments, muscles and nerves apiece, our feet work together to maintain our balance, support body weight, and allow us to walk, run and jump.
"When it comes to feet, people don't notice them until they start to hurt," says Michael Kerzner, DPM, podiatrist on the medical staff at Memorial Regional Hospital, Memorial Hospital West and Memorial Hospital Pembroke. "While many foot problems are temporary, some may be symptoms of diabetes, circulatory diseases or arthritis. These types of conditions force people to take their feet seriously."
Problem Feet
When there is something wrong with your feet, they usually let you know it — with pain, burning, itching or bumps. Here are some of the more common foot problems:
- Ingrown Toenails: form when toenails cut into the skin. They are usually caused by incorrect toenail trimming or ill-fitting shoes.
- Bunions: develop from extra bone that builds up at the base of the big toe, forming a bump. This forces the big toe to overlap the second toe.
- Calluses: are thickened areas of skin caused by friction or pressure. Corns are calluses on or between the toes.
- Heel Spurs: are calcified growths at the bottom of the foot caused by repeated ligament strain and mechanical imbalance.
"To avoid aggravating these conditions, proper hygiene and foot maintenance must be followed," says Dr. Kerzner.
Take a Step in the Right Direction
Dr. Kerzner recommends these tips for healthy feet:
- Make Sure the Shoe Fits
While shoes may not cause foot problems, they can aggravate existing conditions. Shoes should be comfortable, provide support and conform to the shape of the foot (not the other way around). - Shop Smart
Feet swell naturally during the day, so shop for shoes in the afternoon or evening to get the correct size. - Get Moving
Walking is one of the best exercises for your feet. It gives the muscles and ligaments in each foot a workout, making them stronger and more flexible. - Give Your Feet a Bath
Feet should be washed daily with mild soap in lukewarm water to keep them clean and free from infection. Afterward, dry them thoroughly and apply moisturizers in roug areas, but not between the toes. - Maintain the Correct Cutting Edge
Trim and file toenails straight across to prevent ingrown nails. When removing corns and calluses, never use a razor. Stick to over-the-counter products such as pumice stones or non-medicated pads.
Concerned about your feet? Take the first step toward good foot health and rule out more serious problems. Make an appointment to see your physician, who can refer you to a podiatrist if necessary. For referral to a physician, please call the Memorial Physician Referral Service toll-free at (800) 944-DOCS. We're available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.