WeTreatFeet Podiatry for All your Foot and Ankle Needs
Your feet are the foundation of your body, carrying you through countless steps each day. However, various foot problems can hinder your mobility and overall well-being. In this blog post, we will explore common foot problems and provide effective prevention strategies to keep your feet healthy and active. Click the condition for more information!
Plantar Fasciitis: Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot. To prevent plantar fasciitis, wear supportive shoes, avoid excessive high-impact activities, maintain a healthy weight, and stretch your calf and foot muscles regularly.
Bunions: Bunions are bony bumps that develop at the base of the big toe, causing discomfort and deformity. To prevent bunions, choose footwear with a wide toe box, avoid high heels and pointy shoes, maintain a healthy weight, and consider using orthotic inserts for added support and alignment.
Ingrown Toenails: Ingrown toenails occur when the edges of the nails grow into the surrounding skin, causing pain and potential infection. To prevent ingrown toenails, trim your nails straight across, avoid rounding the corners, wear properly fitting shoes, and maintain good foot hygiene.
Athlete’s Foot: Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that commonly affects the skin between the toes, causing itching, redness, and peeling. To prevent athlete’s foot, keep your feet clean and dry, wear moisture-wicking socks and breathable shoes, avoid sharing towels or footwear, and use antifungal powders or sprays as needed.
Corns and Calluses: Corns and calluses are thickened areas of skin that develop due to friction or pressure. To prevent corns and calluses, wear well-fitting shoes with cushioning, use protective pads or inserts to reduce pressure, regularly moisturize your feet, and gently exfoliate to keep the skin smooth.
Achilles Tendonitis: Achilles tendonitis is an overuse injury that causes pain and inflammation in the Achilles tendon at the back of the ankle. To prevent Achilles tendonitis, gradually increase your exercise intensity, stretch your calf muscles before and after activities, wear supportive footwear, and incorporate cross-training and rest days into your routine.
Heel Spurs: Heel spurs are bony growths that form on the heel bone and can cause heel pain. To prevent heel spurs, maintain a healthy weight, wear shoes with good arch support and cushioning, avoid excessive standing or walking on hard surfaces, and use ice or stretching exercises to relieve heel discomfort.
Conclusion: Don’t let foot problems slow you down! By implementing these effective prevention strategies, you can keep your feet healthy and active. Remember to choose proper footwear, maintain good foot hygiene, stretch regularly, and listen to your body. If you experience persistent foot issues, consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice. Take care of your feet, and they will support you every step of the way! We are here for you Maryland and Pennsylvania, call us at 410-363-4343 for an appointment
sensitive to the needs of the minority mental health community
Introduction
In July 2023, WeTreatFeet Podiatry, a leading healthcare provider, joins the nationwide effort in recognizing and celebrating Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. This annual observance aims to raise awareness about the mental health challenges faced by minority communities and promote accessible, culturally sensitive mental health care. WeTreatFeet Podiatry is committed to addressing these disparities, breaking down stigmas, and supporting the mental well-being of individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Understanding Minority Mental Health
Minority mental health refers to the unique psychological experiences and challenges faced by minority populations, including racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrants, and other marginalized groups. These communities often encounter disparities in mental health access, quality of care, and social support, which can significantly impact their overall well-being.
Importance of Minority Mental Health Awareness Month
Minority Mental Health Awareness Month serves as a vital platform to shed light on these disparities and encourage dialogue around mental health issues specific to minority communities. By dedicating a month to this cause, it aims to foster understanding, empathy, and support while promoting equitable access to mental health resources.
WeTreatFeet Podiatry’s Initiatives
WeTreatFeet Podiatry actively participates in Minority Mental Health Awareness Month by implementing various initiatives to address mental health disparities within minority communities. These efforts include:
1. Addressing Mental Health Disparities
WeTreatFeet Podiatry acknowledges the disparities faced by minority communities in accessing mental health services. Through targeted outreach programs and collaborations, we strive to bridge this gap and ensure equal access to quality care for all individuals, regardless of their background.
2. Breaking Down Stigmas
Stigma surrounding mental health is a significant barrier to seeking help, particularly in minority communities. WeTreatFeet Podiatry actively works to destigmatize mental health issues by providing educational resources, raising awareness, and encouraging open conversations about mental well-being.
3. Culturally Sensitive Mental Health Care
Recognizing the importance of culturally sensitive care, WeTreatFeet Podiatry ensures that our doctors are sensitive to mental health needs and offer referrals that are tailored to the specific needs and cultural backgrounds of minority communities. By embracing diversity and inclusivity, we create a safe and welcoming environment for individuals seeking support.
4. Collaboration with Community Organizations
WeTreatFeet Podiatry collaborates with local community organizations, advocacy groups, and healthcare providers to create a comprehensive network of support for minority mental health. Through these partnerships, we aim to enhance resources, expand outreach, and empower individuals to prioritize their mental well-being.
5. Educational Resources and Workshops
As part of their commitment to raising awareness, WeTreatFeet Podiatry stives to be al resources that provide information on mental health topics relevant to minority communities. These resources aim to empower individuals with knowledge, promote self-care, and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
6. Promoting Self-Care and Wellness
WeTreatFeet Podiatry recognizes the importance of self-care in maintaining good mental health. We encourage individuals to prioritize self-care practices and offer guidance on stress management techniques, mindfulness exercises, and healthy lifestyle choices.
7. Seeking Professional Help
For individuals requiring professional help, WeTreatFeet Podiatry emphasizes the importance of seeking support from mental health professionals. We provide information on how to access mental health services, including therapy, counseling, and psychiatry, and encourage individuals to reach out for assistance when needed.
8. Building Support Networks
WeTreatFeet Podiatry believes in the power of support networks. We encourage patients to join support groups and community gatherings where individuals can connect, share experiences, and find solace in knowing they are not alone in their mental health journey.
9. Spreading Awareness on Social Media
Recognizing the influence of social media, WeTreatFeet Podiatry utilizes our platforms to spread awareness about minority mental health. We share educational content, personal stories, and resources to engage with a wider audience and foster dialogue around this crucial topic.
10. Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion
WeTreatFeet Podiatry celebrates the rich diversity of their patients and staff and emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in mental healthcare. We strive to create an environment that respects and embraces individual differences, fostering a sense of belonging and acceptance. See our own DEI policy here!
Conclusion
WeTreatFeet Podiatry’s participation in Minority Mental Health Awareness Month reflects our commitment to addressing mental health disparities, breaking down stigmas, and promoting accessible and culturally sensitive mental healthcare for minority communities. Our aim is to empower individuals, spread awareness, and contribute to a more inclusive and supportive society.
FAQs
Q1: What is Minority Mental Health Awareness Month? Minority Mental Health Awareness Month is an annual observance dedicated to raising awareness about the mental health challenges faced by minority communities. It aims to address disparities in access to mental healthcare, promote culturally sensitive care, and foster understanding and support.
Q2: Why is minority mental health important? Minority mental health is important because minority communities often face unique challenges and disparities in accessing mental health services. Raising awareness about these issues helps promote equity, understanding, and the development of targeted support systems.
Q3: How can I support minority mental health awareness? You can support minority mental health awareness by educating yourself on the challenges faced by minority communities, promoting inclusivity and acceptance, advocating for equitable access to mental health resources, and engaging in open and supportive conversations about mental well-being.
Q4: How can WeTreatFeet Podiatry help with mental health? WeTreatFeet Podiatry offers a range of services to support mental health, including culturally sensitive care, educational resources, workshops, access to mental health professionals, support groups, and collaboration with community organizations. They aim to provide comprehensive care for individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Q5: How can I get involved with WeTreatFeet Podiatry’s initiatives? To get involved with WeTreatFeet Podiatry’s initiatives, you can follow them on social media, participate in their educational workshops and support groups, share their content to raise awareness, and reach out to them for information on how you can contribute to their efforts.
Unveiling the Wonders of Feet: Fascinating Foot Facts, Arch Mysteries, and Beyond
Feet, the unsung heroes of our daily lives, deserve recognition for their remarkable abilities and intriguing characteristics. At WeTreatFeet Podiatry, we believe in sharing valuable knowledge about feet to foster a deeper understanding of their wonders. Join us on an exhilarating journey as we explore intriguing foot facts, unravel the mysteries of arches, delve into the world of unusual foot conditions, and even uncover famous foot-related incidents from history. Let’s dive right in!
Interesting Facts about Feet: Unraveling the Secrets
Feet, comprising an intricate arrangement of bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments, are true marvels of engineering. Here are some captivating foot facts that will leave you in awe:
Did you know that the human foot is home to a quarter of all the bones in our body? With 26 bones, 33 joints, and over 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments, our feet provide a solid foundation for mobility and balance.
Your feet are unique, just like your fingerprints! Each person has a distinct foot structure and weight distribution pattern, resulting in individualized footprints. This uniqueness has proven valuable in forensic investigations, helping identify individuals involved in criminal activities or locate missing persons.
The big toe, also known as the hallux, is a weight-bearing champion. It carries the majority of our body weight during walking and provides essential stability and push-off power.
Feet are sensory powerhouses. They house a plethora of nerve endings, making them one of the most sensitive areas of our body. These nerve endings allow us to perceive temperature, texture, and pressure, contributing to our balance and coordination.
The Mystery of Arches: Why Do Feet Have Them?
The presence of arches in our feet serves a crucial purpose, offering numerous advantages for our overall foot function. Here’s why feet have arches:
Shock absorption: Arches act as natural shock absorbers, distributing the impact of our footsteps evenly and reducing stress on our joints and soft tissues. This mechanism helps prevent injuries and provides cushioning during activities such as running or jumping.
Energy conservation: The arch structure assists in conserving energy while walking or running. It stores and releases elastic energy with each step, propelling us forward and reducing muscular fatigue.
Load-bearing efficiency: Arches enable our feet to distribute body weight evenly across the foot, ensuring optimal weight-bearing and reducing strain on specific areas. This efficient load distribution helps maintain stability and prevents excessive pressure on certain structures.
Weird and Uncommon Foot Conditions: Unveiling the Extraordinary
While most foot conditions are familiar to many, some foot disorders stand out due to their peculiarity. Here are a few bizarre foot conditions that exist:
Alien hand syndrome: This neurological condition causes the affected foot to move involuntarily, seemingly having a mind of its own. It can lead to uncontrollable movements, making daily activities challenging.
Pachyonychia congenita: A rare genetic disorder characterized by thickened nails, painful calluses, and cysts on the feet. This condition can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and requires specialized treatment.
Cotard’s delusion: A psychiatric disorder where individuals believe their feet (or other body parts) are dead or nonexistent. This delusion can lead to neglect of foot care and potentially harmful consequences.
Feet: Adapting to Varied Terrains
Our remarkable feet possess adaptive qualities that allow us to traverse diverse terrains with relative ease. Here’s how feet adapt to different surfaces and environments:
Grip and stability: When walking on slippery or uneven surfaces, our feet instinctively adjust by activating small muscles in the feet and toes. This adaptation enhances grip and stability, preventing slips and falls.
Shock absorption: On hard surfaces, our feet automatically adjust to absorb impact by subtly altering the way the arches and muscles engage. This adaptation helps minimize the strain on joints and tissues.
Sensory feedback: Feet constantly provide sensory feedback about the terrain we’re walking on, allowing us to adapt our gait and foot placement accordingly. This feedback loop helps us navigate safely through various environments.
Famous Foot-Related Incidents in History: Tales of Legend and Lore
Throughout history, there have been notable incidents involving feet that have left a lasting impact. Here are a few fascinating foot-related incidents:
The Cinderella slipper: The tale of Cinderella and her lost glass slipper has captivated audiences for centuries. This enchanting story reminds us of the enduring significance of shoes and their power to change destinies.
The marathon messenger: In ancient Greece, a legendary messenger named Pheidippides ran from the battlefield of Marathon to Athens, covering a distance of approximately 26 miles. This feat of endurance birthed the modern marathon and inspired countless athletes to push their limits.
The moonwalk: On July 20, 1969, astronaut Neil Armstrong took humanity’s first step on the moon, leaving an indelible footprint. This historic moment showcased the triumph of human exploration and sparked the imagination of generations to come.
Cultural Beliefs and Practices: Feet in Traditions and Customs
Feet hold cultural significance in various traditions and customs around the world. Here are a few examples of cultural beliefs and practices related to feet:
Foot binding in ancient China: Foot binding was a practice where young girls’ feet were tightly bound to restrict growth, resulting in small, delicate feet. It was considered a symbol of beauty and social status, despite its detrimental effects on foot health.
Reflexology: This practice, originating in ancient Egypt and China, involves massaging specific points on the feet believed to correspond to different organs and systems in the body. Reflexology aims to promote overall well-being and balance.
Walking over hot coals: In some cultures, walking barefoot over hot coals is a ritual or test of strength and faith. Participants believe it symbolizes overcoming obstacles and demonstrates their resilience.
Embrace the Marvels of Feet: Foot Health and Beyond
Feet, with their fascinating facts, mysterious arches, and incredible adaptability, are wonders worth cherishing. By understanding their intricacies and embracing proper foot care, we can embark on a lifelong journey of foot health and well-being. Remember, your feet are extraordinary, and at WeTreatFeet Podiatry, we’re here to support you every step of the way.
WeTreatFeet Podiatry is a podiatric medical practice that has been serving the Maryland area for over 30 years. The practice offers a wide range of foot and ankle care services, including treatment for bunions, twisted ankles, diabetic wound care, and more. The staff at WeTreatFeet Podiatry are experienced and skilled doctors who have worked with some of the most advanced methods known to foot and ankle care. The practice is committed to providing exceptional care in a kind and compassionate manner.
Golf is a popular sport enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. While it may not seem like a particularly strenuous activity, playing golf can put a lot of stress on your feet, especially if you are wearing the wrong type of shoes. In this article, we will explore how golf shoes can hurt your feet and how WeTreatFeet Podiatry can help you address these issues.
Gold shoes can be hard on your feet
How golf shoes can hurt your feet
Golf shoes are designed to provide support and stability during the golf swing. They are typically made with hard, durable materials like leather and synthetic fibers to withstand the wear and tear of the game. While this may make them sturdy and long-lasting, it can also make them uncomfortable to wear for extended periods.
One of the main ways that golf shoes can hurt your feet is by being too tight. Shoes that are too tight can lead to blisters, calluses, and even toenail injuries. This is because the constant rubbing and pressure can cause friction between the skin and the shoe, leading to painful blisters and calluses. Additionally, if the shoes are too tight, they can restrict blood flow to the feet, which can cause pain and discomfort.
On the other hand, shoes that are too loose can also be problematic. If the shoes do not fit securely, your feet can slide around inside them, which can cause blisters and calluses. Loose shoes can also make it difficult to maintain proper balance and stability during the golf swing, which can lead to injuries.
Another way that golf shoes can hurt your feet is by not providing adequate support. Golf requires a lot of standing, walking, and swinging, which can put a lot of strain on your feet and legs. If your shoes do not provide proper arch support or cushioning, this can lead to pain and discomfort in the feet, knees, and lower back.
WeTreatFeet Understands Woman’s golf shoes
How WeTreatFeet Podiatry can help
At WeTreatFeet Podiatry, we understand how important it is to have comfortable and supportive shoes for golf. Our experienced podiatrists can help you address any issues you may be experiencing with your feet while playing golf.
One of the first things we will do is perform a thorough evaluation of your feet. We will examine your feet and look for any issues that may be contributing to your foot pain or discomfort. We may also take X-rays or other diagnostic tests to get a better understanding of your foot anatomy.
Based on our evaluation, we may recommend specific types of golf shoes that are best suited to your feet and your golfing needs. For example, we may suggest shoes that have more cushioning or better arch support to help alleviate pain and discomfort. We may also recommend custom orthotics to provide additional support and stability during the golf swing.
In addition to recommending specific shoes or orthotics, we can also provide tips on proper foot care and shoe selection. For example, we may suggest choosing shoes that are the right size and have adequate cushioning and arch support. We may also recommend shoes made from breathable materials to prevent excessive sweating and foot odor.
We can help!
If you are experiencing foot pain or discomfort while playing golf, WeTreatFeet Podiatry can help. Our podiatrists are experts in foot care and can provide customized solutions to meet your unique needs. With the right shoes and support, you can enjoy playing golf without pain or discomfort in your feet.
WeTreatFeet Podiatry is a team of expert podiatrists dedicated to providing personalized foot care solutions to meet the unique needs of each patient. With a focus on patient education and preventive care, WeTreatFeet Podiatry aims to help patients achieve optimal foot health and function. Whether you are experiencing foot pain or discomfort, have a foot condition that requires treatment, or simply want to learn how to care for your feet better, the team at WeTreatFeet Podiatry can help. They offer a wide range of services, from foot evaluations and diagnostic tests to custom orthotics and surgical interventions. With years of experience and a commitment to compassionate care, WeTreatFeet Podiatry is the go-to resource for all your foot care needs. Visit our 11 locations in Maryland and Pennsylvania, or call us at 410-363-4343
Diabetic Foot Ulcer treatment at WeTreatFeet Podiatry, Foot and Ankle Care, Baltimore, Maryland.
Dr. Mikel Daniels
President , Chief Medical Officer, and Managing Member at WeTreatFeet
Diabetic foot ulcers are a common complication of diabetes, affecting up to 25% of patients with diabetes during their lifetime. One of the main causes of diabetic foot ulcers is peripheral neuropathy, a condition that causes nerve damage, leading to loss of sensation in the feet. As a result, patients with diabetic foot ulcers are at an increased risk of developing serious infections and amputations.
Achilles tendon lengthening (ATL) is a surgical procedure that has been used to treat diabetic foot ulcers. The procedure involves lengthening the Achilles tendon to reduce pressure on the forefoot and increase the offloading of pressure areas. By reducing the pressure on the foot, ATL can promote healing of diabetic foot ulcers and prevent further complications.
Several studies have shown the effectiveness of ATL in treating diabetic foot ulcers. A randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association found that patients who underwent ATL had a significantly higher rate of complete ulcer healing compared to those who received standard care alone (71.4% vs. 20.0%). Another study published in the journal Diabetes Care found that ATL significantly reduced the risk of ulcer recurrence and amputation in patients with diabetic foot ulcers.
While ATL is generally considered a safe and effective treatment for diabetic foot ulcers, it is not without risks. Complications can include wound dehiscence, infection, and nerve damage. Patients considering ATL should discuss the risks and benefits with a WeTreatFeet Podiatrist
Multiple studies have shown, Achilles tendon lengthening is a successful treatment option for diabetic foot ulcers. It has been shown to promote healing and prevent complications in patients with peripheral neuropathy. However, patients should be aware of the potential risks and consult WeTreatFeet before undergoing the procedure.
More than half of Americans suffer from foot problems, and often those problems are directly related to shoes.
But no matter how cute a shoe looks, Orly Avitzur, medical adviser at Consumer Reports, said that having fashionable footwear isn’t worth the health risks.
“Wearing the wrong shoes can lead to lifelong deformities that require surgery to fix,” she said.
According to a new study from the Institute for Preventive Foot Health, uncomfortable and ill-fitting shoes are a serious problem. Shoes that force feet into narrow or pointy toes can cause bunions or hammertoes, where the toes curl unnaturally downward.
But that doesn’t stop women like Trisha Calvo and Jennifer Frost from wearing name brand heels.
“I feel fabulous in them,” Frost said. “You feel fabulous in your shoes…not physically
fabulous in them.”
Studies show that high heels can shorten your Achilles tendon and can trigger planter fasciitis, an inflammation in the soles of the feet. Avitzur recommends foregoing high heels for something more comfortable.
“Opt for a lower heel to take some of the pressure off the ball of your foot,” she said. “Make sure that there is enough room in the toe, and avoid thin-soled shoes that have little or no support.”
But even flat shoes can hurt feet if they lack proper support and cushioning, especially if they’re the wrong size.
One recent study revealed that up to a third of people wear the wrong shoe size, sometimes by up to one-and-a-half sizes. To combat that problem, Consumer Reports recommends measuring your feet each time you buy, especially for people over 40. After that, feet can grow up to half a shoe size every 10 years.
1.) Maintain a blood sugar level of 70 to 130 mg/dL before your meals and less than 180 mg/dL two hours after you’ve started your meal, with a haemoglobin A1C level that is less than 7 percent. This can be achieved through regular exercise, monitoring how often and what you are eating, keeping up with medications prescribed by your doctor, and monitoring your blood sugar as often as is necessary for optimal control.
2.) Never walk barefooted. Seashells, glass, or other ocean debris can cut your skin and cause serious infections without you realizing it. Walking barefoot on a hot pavement or hot sand can also lead to severe burns or infections. Avoid wearing sandals, as sand and other foreign bodies can still get into the sandal. Podiatrist, Cyaandi Dove, advises all her diabetic patients to choose closed shoes over flip-flops and sandals to give their feet maximum protect. She says: “Insects can still have access to your feet and cause problems with bites and other infections. Rather than saying that you should never wear sandals, I would say that you should be very vigilant when you do wear them.”
3.) Be shoe wise. Wearing shoes that are too big or too small can cause blisters or calluses. Measure your feet each time you buy new shoes. It’s is normal for adult feet to change sizes four or five times during your lifetime. Weight fluctuations, changes in the weather, and poor circulation can all alter the shape and size of your foot.
4.) Be sock wise. Choose socks that have no seams. Seams will rub against your skin and cause blisters.
5.) Wash and inspect your feet and shoes daily. Give your feet a daily wash. Inspect your feet before putting on your shoes and once more when you take them off. If you are not flexible enough to see the base of your foot, use a magnifying hand mirror. Shake out your shoes before you put them on and make sure there is no debris that will rub against your feet. Although a tiny grain of sand might not be felt, it could lead to serious infection if it is not treated properly.
6.) Trim toenails. Don’t let your nails get long and overgrown. Trim them straight across, and, if necessary, file down the edges.
7.) Use skin lotion for your feet. As a preventative, Flexitol Heel Balm can reduce the risk of infections and foot ulceration in diabetic patients keeping the skin optimally hydrated. Rub a thin coat of Flexitol Heel Balm on the top and bottom of your feet, but not between the toes. Excess moisture can also lead to fungal infections, so let the balm soak into your skin for a few minutes before putting on socks on covering up your feet.
8.) Visit a podiatrist before and after your vacation.Fungal infections tend to happen a lot more when the weather is heated and increased in moisture. Your feet might also increase in calluses because you have switched to summer footwear. Do not try to remove corns, calluses, or warts on your own. Even over-the-counter products for removing corns and warts may cause burns or damage to your skin that cannot be repaired. Your podiatrist will help you manage minor infections and ensure that they do not lead to serious complications.
APMA put out the following notes on bunions – check it out: Bunions are among the most common type of foot ailment today’s podiatrist treats, especially in women. Studies show that women are anywhere from two to nine times more likely to develop a bunion than men! While your high heels and peep toes are partially to blame, your foot type (passed down through your family) is the true culprit.
Style Squeeze
Click the image above to order a FREE poster for your office.
Here’s the good news! Today’s podiatrist is the true expert when it comes to diagnosing and treating bunions. Podiatrists perform tens of thousands of bunion procedures every year, more than any other medical professional in the United States.
Fortunately, today’s podiatrist is only a click away! Podiatrists are uniquely qualified among medical professionals to treat bunions, based on their education, training, and experience. If you suspect a bunion, visit a podiatrist and beat bunion blues!
Bunion Basics
What exactly is a bunion? Find out in our Bunion Basics tip sheet.
Bunion Blues and Shoes
Are your shoe selections worsening your bunion? Check out our Bunion Blues and Shoes tip sheet to learn more.
The APMA put out a great list of important Dos and Don’ts when it comes to pedicures – we’ve highlighted some we thought were most important. You can also check out the poster released by APMA by clicking here.
Here’s what you should DO when consider a pedicure:
If you have diabetes or poor circulation in your feet, consult a podiatrist so he or she can recommend a customized pedicure that both you and your salon can follow for optimal foot health.
Schedule your pedicure first thing in the morning. Salon foot baths are typically cleanest earlier in the day. If you’re not a morning person, make sure that the salon filters and cleans the foot bath between clients.
Bring your own pedicure utensils to the salon. Bacteria and fungus can move easily from one person to the next if the salon doesn’t use proper sterilization techniques.
When eliminating thick, dead skin build-up, also known as calluses, on the heel, ball and sides of the feet, use a pumice stone, foot file or exfoliating scrub. Soak feet in warm water for at least five minutes, then use the stone, scrub, or foot file to gently smooth calluses and other rough patches.
When trimming nails, use a toenail clipper with a straight edge to ensure your toenail is cut straight across. Other tools like manicure scissors or fingernail clippers increase the risk of ingrown toenails because of their small, curved shape. See a podiatrist if you have a tendency to develop ingrown toenails.
And here’s what you DON’T DO when consider a pedicure:
Resist the urge to shave your legs before receiving a pedicure. Freshly shaven legs or small cuts on your legs may allow bacteria to enter.
If you are receiving a pedicure and manicure, don’t use the same tools for both services as bacteria and fungus can transfer between fingers and toes.
Although certain salons offer this technique, don’t allow technicians to use a foot razor to remove dead skin. Using a razor can result in permanent damage if used incorrectly and caneasily cause infection if too much skin is removed.
Don’t round the edges of your toenails. This type of shape increases the chances that painful ingrown toenails will develop.
Emery boards are extremely porous and can trap germs that spread. Since they can’t be sterilized, don’t share nail files with friends and be sure to bring your own to the salon, unless you are sure that the salon replaces them with each customer.
Don’t use any sharp tools to clean under nails. Using anything sharp makes it easy to puncture the skin, leaving it vulnerable to infection.
Be sure that you don’t leave any moisture between toes. Anything left behind can promote the development of athlete’s foot or a fungal infection.
