Here in Scarborough, temperatures have been warming up a little—it’s hard to believe spring is officially here!
You may be ready to shed your winter layers and get out in the sunshine, but how about your feet?
Most of us in winter probably have our feet wrapped up in warm socks and boots, hardly even looking at them. This brings us to the first step in getting your feet in shape for the season.
Check out your feet—and how often?
Thinking about wearing sandals again in the coming months may have you wanting to give your feet a makeover now, but it is important to keep an eye on them all year long. Take the opportunity to give them more attention and check your feet for:
Cuts
Cracks
Sores
If you have diabetes, it is important that daily foot checks are part of your routine (If you have trouble seeing your feet, have a partner or loved one help you with a mirror). Nerve damaged called neuropathy can make it hard to feel if something is wrong. Dry, cracked, and peeling skin is common in diabetics, but sores and ulcers can also happen if proper checks and care aren't followed.
Soften things up
One of the main reasons for the roughness caused by the above ailments is general dryness, combined with daily use. Moisturizing is a crucial first step in your foot care routine. Apply a thin layer of lotion (or petroleum jelly for intensive moisture retention) to your feet while avoiding putting any between the toes. Moisture between the toes can encourage fungal growth or infection. A bit of cornstarch between the toes can help the skin stay dry and soft. Finish it all off with a pair of socks, especially overnight, for maximum results.
Time for a trim
What’s the best way to cut your toenails? The main thing to remember is to cut straight across, and not too short. You can use a nail file to soften the edges a bit, so they don’t cut into your skin as they grow. If you are having trouble cutting your toenails, don’t sweat it! A foot doctor can help you with that.
Get rid of calluses and corns
It’s time to see a foot doctor. Calluses and corns are thickened areas of skin that can become painful when wearing shoes. It may be tempting to try to get rid of them at home, but some methods of removal, such as acids or using a shaving tool, could seriously injure you and are best treated by a podiatrist
If you need help with foot care, have neuropathy, are experiencing pain in your foot or heel, or an injury to your foot or ankle, call us today at 207-774-0028 to set up an appointment with Dr. Michelle Kurlanski!
Dr. Kurlanski provides skilled and professional podiatry care in Cumberland County, Maine, at Lighthouse Foot and Ankle Center in Scarborough.