Caring for your feet

How well do you know your feet? Do you treat them with kindness, or do you neglect and abuse them?

According to the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), ailments of the foot are among the most common, and most neglected, health problems. Seventy-five percent of Americans will experience foot problems; and women have about four times as many foot problems as men have.

It is important to consider the relationship between foot health and overall health. Your feet may be the first part of your body to show symptoms of arthritis, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and other serious medical conditions. The APMA offers practical suggestions for the care of your feet: wear properly-fitted, protective footwear; avoid going barefoot; use ice (cold) to treat an injury and reduce swelling and pain; and seek medical treatment at the first sign of injury or infection. If your feet require medical treatment, I recommend that you consult with a licensed podiatrist. Podiatrists, also known as podiatric physicians, specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of foot disorders resulting from injury or disease.

~ Thanks to Jaime Schrabeck, Ph.D. of Precision Nails.com for providing this information.