One should not forget caring for the feet because they are hidden, they need regular care not only to make them look good but also avoid crippling conditions like corus and calluses which can lead to painful feet. Besides, the strain of tired and aching feet will adversely affect even the most beautiful face. Foot care is the in the TO-DO list of people who have time. The negligence we show gets reflected as the years go by and when age catches up. Foot problems mainly arise due to wrong foot ware, obesity, lack of foot care, calcium deficiency and prolongled usage of high heeled foot wear. One can prevent foot related problems by following certain simple routine pedicures.
It will also cause a loss of balance while walking and promote tension and irritability. Like the hands, the feet also should be kept in good shape with a few exercises. Useful exercise for the feet is to arch the ankles, bend the toes and flex the whole foot first thing in the morning. Feet that are sore and swollen after a long day, should be relaxed by placing them higher than the head and gently massaging them with some olive oil. An ancient remedy for the tired feet is to soak the feet alternatively in hot and cold water. Soaking the feet in warm water to which Epsom salt or special footsalts (available in the market) have been added can be very soothing. To avoid fungal or bacterial infections, wash your feet in warm water and be sure to dry between the toes using talcum powder. To keep the feet smelling fresh a deodorizing talcum powder should be applied each morning after washing, avoid wearing plastic or vinyl shoes as they do not allow the feet to breathe freely.
The toe nails should be given as much as attention as the nails of the hands, an orange stick tipped with cotton wool should be used to clean around the nails. Particular attention should be paid to the sides of the nails where dirt tends to collect. Next comes the shoes, when buying shoes look for fit and comfort just as much as fancy design. Ill fitting footwear can cause corns caused by friction when the bony parts of your feet rub against your shoes. Shoes should always be comfortable to your wider and longer feet. Make sure that your heel fits snugly in each shoes and does not slip out of the back while walking. Walking, dancing, swimming and cycling are good exercise to develop leg muscles. Dry skin can cause itching and burning of the feet so rub a thin coat of skin lotion cream or petroleum jelly on the affected areas. The heels should be made wet thoroughly and then it should be rubbed with two tablespoon of ground nut mixed with a tablespoon of salt, after a few minutes they should be rinsed and sesame oil mixed with a few drops of vinegar should be applied.
Soak the feet in warm water for about ten to fifteen minutes. you can either add shampoo or liquid soap to the water. Use a soft bristle bursh to rub the edges and the between the toes and ankles.Rub a pumice stome on the sides of the feet to remove the dead skin. Apply a scrub which contains the peel of babana or papaya with sugar crystals sprinkled on it. Once done, Remove the feet and dry it with a towel. Nails have to be trimmed before pedicure and cuticle creams can be applied to remove the cuticles.
Avoid wearing tight foot wear, socks etc., If prolonged usage of shoes is done then do not forget to dust some talcum powder on the feet before wearing your socks. This will help to absorb sweat and prevent odour. Never wear bear foot on the floor. Nail trimming should be made a regular practice to avoid dirt and germs accumulating in the gaps.
Courtesy: Indian Express, Feb 7, 2006
