10 Things Your Toes (And Feet) Will Thank You for Doing

Sep 14, 2018 by apost team

Feet get tired, smelly and sweaty, pinched and pulled, and their skin gets damaged. Despite all this abuse, we still rely on them to carry us around faithfully every day. Stop ignoring your tootsies and give them the type of positive attention they deserve for all their hard work. These 10 tips will help to refresh, revitalize, and renew your feet.

While pedicures can make your feet feel great, only get one with wound-free feet to avoid infection from the soaking tubs. You can give yourself one at home by soaking, exfoliating dead skin cells with a loofah or pumice, and slather on some nourishing moisturizer cream. The process not only protects your skin but can also get rid of calluses, combat foot odor, and relax your muscles and your mind.

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Heels may look great, but they are basically torture devices for your feet. They pinch toes, cause joint pain, and can cause long-term damage. Other types of shoes with no support are bad too such as flip-flops. The thin strap that goes between your toes can even cause joint trouble over time. Opt for supportive, low-heeled shoes instead. They can still look just as stylish and fun.

Not only can your feet sweat and get blisters in athletic shoes, there is always a chance of injury. Wear proper sports socks and start off slow and careful to avoid even worse problems like stress fractures. For those unused to regular physical activity, start with small increments and build up over time. Also, make sure you have properly fitting shoes with good support in the soles.

Get one from a professional with your pedicure or prop your feet up in your significant other's lap for a soothing foot massage. You can even rub your own feet and get the same benefits. The massages reduce joint pain, swelling, and promote relaxation all over. Do not forget your toes!

You know that working out keeps your body healthy, and the same idea goes for your feet. One great exercise for strong, straight joints is to stretch a rubber band between your big toes and hold them apart for a few seconds. Also, wrap the band around all the toes on one foot and spread them apart. The idea is not to build big toe muscles but instead of release tension, strengthen joints, and prevent unattractive bent toes due to too-tight shoes.

After a long day walking or standing, your feet and ankles may be swollen and sore. There is no mistake that "put your feet up" is synonymous with relaxation. Elevating them on a pillow or footrest helps them regain their usual, comfortable shape. If the swelling is really bad, grab an ice pack.

Shoes that do not fit right, excessive repetitive actions or exercise, and lack of regular maintenance can lead to the development of calluses and corns. The best way to remove them safely is to soak your feet and use a pumice stone to get rid of layers gradually. See a podiatrist for more intense therapies like salicylic acid treatments.

Stores are full of foot powder and spray deodorants, but if your tootsies still offend the nose, it might be time to try something a little out of the ordinary. Smelly feet come from an overgrowth of bacteria usually on dampness in shoes with no air flow. Wash your feet regularly and use the over-the-counter solutions, but also give them a soak in brewed black tea for half an hour once a week.

Every part of your body can suffer when you eat unhealthy foods and gain excess weight. Your feet have to hold everything up, after all, and the pounds put more pressure on joints and muscles. Cut the salt, reduce sugar, get sufficient protein, and drink more water. Also, avoid excessive alcohol consumption for maximum health benefits.

Feet with serious pain, sores that will not heal, and numbness need medical attention. This could be a sign of diabetic problems or just poor circulation, something that smoking contributes to greatly. Even if all you have is tired, sore feet, smoking is a bad idea anyway. Quit as soon as possible.

What other things do you do to pamper your feet? Leave a comment or post to your friends to share these relaxing, foot-loving habits so they can get the benefits too.